The Color finds their groove
WINKLER, MB—The Color, an up and coming Christian rock band from Winkler, Manitoba are hoping to add a little light to the airwaves and reach youth with a message of hope.
Frontman Jordan Janzen grew up in a musical home, often playing drums and guitar with his parents' worship band. Eventually he took the spotlight with his voice.
"I've seen people without that family support," says Janzen. "And that's a very challenging, very lonely road."
His journey truly began back in 2005 during his final year of high school when he entered the Manitoba Christian Talent Search. While he didn't win the contest, the exposure led to a six-week tour with Canadian artist Amanda Falk.
Janzen released his debut album, Crazy, three years later, co-produced with the help of his father Ken Janzen at their home recording studio in Plum Coulee, Manitoba.
His first single, "Cinderella" received national airplay and the album went on to receive nominations for two Covenant Awards at the annual Gospel Music Awards (GMA).
Then in 2009, Janzen entered full-time ministry as a youth pastor at Westside Church in Morden, Manitoba where he saw first hand the pain and struggles of youth looking to feel valued through popularity instead of Christ.
Janzen was soon writing again with long-time friend and former bandmate James Shiels who had also entered ministry. They shared a renewed focus on spreading a message of hope.
Those early songs eventually became The Color's award-winning, self-titled album, released in early 2012. The record also features guitarist Gabe Boschman, Larry Abrams on bass and drummer Tyler Martens.
The Color's debut album was nominated for a total of five GMA awards in 2012 and took home three, including Hard Rock/Alternative Song of the Year for "Alive" as well as the coveted prize for New Artist of the Year.
Janzen says the accolades have given the group a greater platform to speak into the lives of youth.
"We want to build into others," Janzen explains, adding that the group wants to continue to bring colour and light to people's lives, writing songs of substance and character.
"Songs that have purpose," says Janzen.
Recently the band provided worship during Mennonite Brethren Collegiate Institute's Spiritual Emphasis week, for five evenings of music and ministering to more than 500 teens.
In early February The Color plays at MissionFest Manitoba, and will perform during Friday night's session with guest speaker Vince Antonucci, author of I Became a Christian and All I Got Was This Lousy T-Shirt.
Dear Readers:
ChristianWeek relies on your generous support. please take a minute and donate to help give voice to stories that inform, encourage and inspire.
Donations of $20 or more will receive a charitable receipt.Thank you, from Christianweek.
