How has your life changed since the mainstream radio hit, "When Did You Fall"?

Chris Rice: This song has allowed me to connect with a lot more people. It's been fun to watch several guys propose to their sweethearts in my shows, during that song! Playing a small part in such an important moment is an honor.

Given your background in Christian music, what's it like performing for non-Christian audiences? Do you feel like a fish out of water?

Rice: Not at all. I've always felt like it's wrong to only do your work for Christians. That's the exact opposite of how we are supposed to live, and completely misses the point of Christ coming to the world, and us representing him here.

On your new album, What a Heart Is Beating For, "Pardon My Dust" is quite a departure for you, musically and otherwise. What inspired it?

Rice: "Pardon My Dust" is a call to all of us, especially me, away from being judgmental. None of us is superhuman, so we all have flaws. We'll do much better if we give each other space to be human, and help each other along instead of pointing fingers.

When you sing, "Pardon my dust and I'll pardon yours," do you mean grace and forgiveness are conditional?

Rice: The song is asking the listener to not only be careful with judging, but also realize we each have "dust" to deal with. In other words, at the end of the song, it's saying, "By the way, you're in the same process too, so I'll have to show you some love as well!"

Who is "You Don't Have to Yell" aimed at?

Rice: This is my first "social issue" type of song. Noticing America's addiction to anger, displayed all over reality TV, the political scene, and news analysis shows, I decided to address all of us with a call to rational and peaceful discussion, rather than the ramped up screaming where we can't even hear each other's point of view. My favorite line says, "Many things are worth the fight, but louder doesn't make you right."

"Here Come Those Eyes" is romantic, almost sexy in tone. What prompted that?

Rice: I wanted to capture that innocent infatuation feeling we all have experienced when she walks into the room. I've gotten such great feedback from people, guys who feel that way, and girls who love it when a guy feels that way about them!

As a whole, What a Heart Is Beating For is quite a statement. What do you hope listeners take away from it?

Rice: As the title suggests, I hope people not only enjoy the music, but also sense that there is purpose to being alive. God created us to love. Whether that's romantic love, or love for a family member, or helping a homeless person on the street, there is no reason to hold back. Draw in a deep breath, and throw open the door! That's what a heart is beating for.

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