My Hope Radio: In three or four sentences, how would you describe your journey of faith?

Stephanie Hutton: I’m thankful for the privilege of embracing the truth as a child and for the Lord’s hand of protection on my life. Through the highs and the lows, the Lord has always been there. For the past twenty-three years, I’ve had the privilege of serving with my husband, David Hutton, as pastor’s wife and music director at the UPC of Asheboro, NC. Because our pastorate goes back to the roots of our local assembly, I have had the opportunity to learn and gain experience, both musically and as a leader, in ways I may not have otherwise.

MHR: What is your favorite Scripture in the Bible?

SH: Psalm 27:1, “The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?

MHR: What is your music background? (Who influenced you, when did you start singing, etc…)  

SH: My mother, Billie Smith, was a talented songwriter and recording artist, so music was always a part of our life. While growing up, Richard and Nancy Grandquist spent a good bit of time in our home and church while on the evangelistic field. I was very influenced by her style and singing. We loved the music of Andrae Crouch, Doug Davis, The Lanny Wolfe Trio, The Rambos, and Dallas Holm, but appreciated all styles…classical, bluegrass, jazz, etc. Much of my piano training was classical. I began singing in church as a child and have been singing since that time.

MHR: What specific themes do you cover in your songs? Why?

SH: I don’t target any one particular theme in my song writing, unless I’m writing for children’s curriculum, but I believe strongly in using songs that lift up the Lord more than focusing on myself. I feel that service should always be started with praise to Him. Our praise and worship resources entitled “Fresh Praise” include many of these types of songs, as well as songs of commitment.

MHR: Do you write your own songs? (If so, discuss your usual songwriting process.)

SH: Some of the songs I have written were a result of a message that was preached. I work on some words in my brain, jot them on paper, and put a tune together. I’ve written several “theme” songs for special occasions and holidays. We’ve also written and recorded a lot of children’s material for Kids Power Hour curriculum. I write from the lesson themes they give me…..usually starting with lyrics and then putting a tune to them as I go.

MHR: Where can we listen, purchase, and connect with you?

SH: Our material, “Fresh Praise” is unique. It offers all original songs with chord charts, recorded keyboard helps, separate vocal parts, and a demo CD. We offer three different volumes which are available for purchase on our website – asheboroupc.com. They also work great for home missions churches that may have a new musician with only a basic understanding of chords. The children’s church curriculum CD’s are available through Pentecostal Publishing House. They include Knights of the Kingdom, Sacred Chow, and A Fruitful Life. I can be contacted through email at [email protected].

Fun Stuff

Bagels or Donuts?

Bagels

Fruits or Veggies?

Fruits

Mayonnaise or Mustard?

Mayonnaise

Pen or Pencil?

Pen

Elevator or Stairs?

Stairs (if not too many-ha)