Fernando Ortega's one of those guys you could sit and chat with all day if time warranted. His warm sense of humor and straight-shooting personality are enough to make him a personal friend in a matter of minutes. For those who haven't had the chance to converse with Ortega, you can get to know him through the personal lyrics on his latest recording, Storm. Ortega recently phoned from his California home to share a bit of his quirky personality, to talk about his new record, and to offer some additional tid-bits you might not have known about this modern-day troubadour.

How would you describe your songwriting process throughout the years?

Fernando: The cycle works differently for everyone. Some people are able to write songs all year long and even sit in the back of their bus while they're touring and keep doing it. I have to sit down and focus on songwriting. Sometimes it's a real sweat for me to write a song, and I can't say I enjoy it because I have mental battles over it. But once the lyrics start to come, I'm able to come up for air.

What are the specific themes found on Storm?

Fernando: In my mind I didn't stick to a specific theme, but I'd say a lot of it has to do with going through difficult personal storms and coming out on the other side. After September 11, so many people who normally wouldn't consider themselves people of faith started calling out to God. Going through a raging storm can make you desperate for faith. And if you're already grounded in what you believe, it's a time to reach out for that extra measure of faith.

I'd imagine many of those storms were personal as well. Was there any one in particular that's been a real challenge to get through?

Fernando: My father's ailing health has been the main thing for quite some time. He had a heart attack in 1996, and his declining health has been very discouraging to our whole family. I begged God endlessly to change the situation, and all the while things seemed to grow worse. For a long time I thought my prayers were going unanswered. It wasn't until my nephew's birth last year that things began to change for my father. God used this little boy's entrance into the world to put joy back into my father and to erase his depression. Through that whole situation, I learned my prayer was answered in a more profound way than I'd originally thought or hoped — and it was answered on God's timetable.

When situations like that hit so close to home, does that ever make you rethink your role in the music industry?

Fernando: I've realized over the years that a lot of what the music industry focuses on is vain. At age 45 I look back at my accomplishments and feel like some of those so-called career milestones don't have any lasting significance.

What do you think about the fact that the Christian music industry often elevates musicians to celebrity status?

Fernando: There's no precedence in Scripture for that sort of thing. This idea of doing concerts and selling tickets is relatively new. Sometimes people expect the same from musicians as they do from a pastor or teacher, which can be very confusing. What makes the problem even more interesting is the fact that image is a very big part of the Christian music package. These days, even Christian musicians are made to appear sexy.

How do you think Christian musicians can use their position to benefit the Kingdom?

Fernando: Because of the spiritual or devotional nature of the music, there's a connection that doesn't happen in mainstream music. Of course, there's also the danger of becoming preachy and relevant only to the evangelical subculture. The best thing we all can do is write from a Christian point of view and be true to who we are. Those authentic messages will have a much broader appeal as a result. I sing plenty of hymns and spiritual songs that people who don't listen to Christian music can respond to.

Does receiving those responses confirm what you've always hoped for?

Fernando: I don't feel as though I've arrived someplace, but I am doing far more than I ever dreamed I would do. I never imagined I'd have a record contract and distribution deal, but at the same time I don't feel different or special as a result. My biggest goal is to address issues people are struggling with. With the stories I hear and the letters I receive, I find I'm doing at least that much.

Click here to learn more about Fernando Ortega at our music channel artist page for him. Also check out our music review of his latest album, Storm. Visit Musicforce.com to purchase your own copy of Storm today!

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