Exclusive Interview: Jonny Diaz Talks About His New Album "Let It Fly"

From playing baseball to singing now for the Lord, Jonny Diaz has become one of the most recognizable voices in Contemporary Christian Music.  Jonny Diaz has recently released his brand new Centricity Records album "Let It Fly."  Songs such as "Thank God I Got Her," "Live Like He's Alive" and "Scars" are already getting lots of rave reviews.  We are so privileged to be able to catch up with Jonny as he shares with us some of his thoughts on his new album:

Hallels:  Jonny, thank you doing this interview!  You were a professional baseball player before, what made you want to leave baseball in order to sing for the Lord? Any regrets so far?

It's my pleasure! I wasn't actually professional, but I did have a scholarship to play baseball at Florida State University.  To be honest, I didn't really want to leave baseball in order to pursue music, but God had other plans. He started closing doors for baseball and opening them for music. He clearly used the circumstances and people around me to show me His will. I have no regrets! I do miss having something competitive in my life, but I know that this is where I'm supposed to be.

Hallels:  What's the most challenging aspect and also the most rewarding aspect of the music business? 

The most challenging aspect of the music business is the industry itself. It's tough working in an industry where they literally put out a chart of where you rank each week. Doubts and insecurities can creep in rather quickly.  It's important to remember that the size of the audience does not determine the importance of the message.  The most rewarding aspect of playing music is the people I get to meet. I'm always so encouraged by their words and stories! I have truly been loved and served well by complete strangers over the last few years.

Hallels:  Congratulations on the release of "Let It Fly."  It's also your first for Centricity Records, how's this album different from your other records?

Thanks so much! I'm so excited to see how God uses this new album. My mission statement is  to entertain, to encourage, and to challenge the body of Christ.  Musically, I think this album shows more maturity than my past works.  The recording is a bit more subtle and diverse. Every song sounds a bit different, which I love. I hope this project takes you on a lyrical and musical journey.

Hallels:  If there's a take message you want your fans to take home after hearing "Let It Fly," what would it be?

I hope listeners of the record are reminded that they are completely inadequate... And that's perfect! That might sound weird, but it's true. For years now, I have traveled the country playing my song 'More Beautiful You.' I have told countless people that they are perfectly and wonderfully made. However, I was struggling to believe that myself. I was fighting a feeling of inadequacy, but as I dug into scripture, I realized that God has a habit of using those who are completely inadequate. Where they are ill equipped, He equips them. That's why this album is called 'Let It Fly.' David was completely inadequate when compared with Goliath, but he took the stone, LET IT FLY, and God did great things.

Hallels:  One of my absolutely favorite songs on the album is "Scars."  Is this song autobiographical?  What do you think is the role of suffering in our sanctification?

The best way for me to show you the power of my savior is to show you what I've been saved from. There's always pressure when you're standing on a stage to look as if you have it all together. However, I have learned that we all have scars. God wants to use our scars as part of our story. They enable us to reach people who we would never be able to reach otherwise.  This song isn't specifically autobiographical, but I'll be the first to admit that I have scars and imperfections. I'm a big sinner, but I have a bigger savior.

Hallels:  If you have to single out two songs from "Let It Fly" that means the most to you now, which would they be?  And why?  

'Thank God I Got Her' would probably be the most meaningful song to me on this new record. It may seem lighthearted and funny on the surface but there is more to it. My wife and I have been through a lot in our six years of being married. It's so important that I love her even when I don't fully understand her. Even when she doesn't fully understand herself,  ha!  We are so different, (as are all couples) and that's what makes it exciting.

Hallels: If our readers would like to learn more about you or watch out for your touring dates or purchase your new album, where can they go? 

I do my best to always respond to my fans on social media. Check out my twitter, Facebook page, and Instagram to keep updated. The best way to get to all of those places is from my website, www.jonnydiaz.com. 

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