Role Playing

Jennifer Knapp is not just about good music. She is also concerned with service and integrity.

Speaking about her current tour, "The Back 40 Tour," Knapp says that she is "heading off the beaten path" and "going to places that are not typically served by Christian artists." Knapp said "It's kind of a thank you." Knapp does not want people to think she is unapproachable. Knapp describes the tour as being more artful, acoustic, and intimate. Her hope is that this will not be just another rock show, and that people will take home a memory. She believes that opening acts, Bebo Norman and Justin McRoberts, are "very personal," and are capable of having a conversation with the audience. Knapp also jokingly expressed how fun it will be to have the "guys" open for her rather than the other way around. "The Back 40 Tour" should be an awesome tour, with Knapp riding high on a Grammy nomination for "Lay It Down."

Knapp stated that she is very excited about her Grammy nomination. She considered the scope and caliber of current and prior nominees, and wondered if she has really aspired to the Grammy level. Professionally, Knapp considers the nomination "honoring", specifically being recognized amongst her peers for being creative. Although Knapp feels excited about the nomination she feels that as long as she serves the audience members she was called to serve that is what is most important. To Knapp the greatest achievement, and encouragement, is to know that the fans enjoy the music.

When asked; "If you had a day to spend with anyone, who would it be?" Knapp, after some thought, chose Billy Graham. She described Graham as being a "leader of Christian Faith," with a "high level of integrity." Knapp mentioned that it is "amazing" how long Graham has remained in the public eye and maintained such a high level of integrity. Knapp knows that she is also in the public eye, and she understands the responsibility of being a "role model." Knapp also mentioned, "...it raises the standard of excellence" and "It gives me cause to think about what I do before I act."

Overall Jennifer Knapp had a great year. From the Lilith Fair tour to having her music featured on MTV's "The Real World," Knapp has projected herself into the mainstream audience as a Christian with devotion and integrity.

Check out her web site, www.jenniferknapp.com, for details on the "Back 40 Tour", and check back here for a full concert review of Knapp's March 15th appearance in Madison, WI.