Callann Lane Interview

At the core of every artist there is vision. It is fueled by passion and driven by inspiration. Sometimes that vision results in a time of reflection and re-focus. Artists who choose to step away from the momentum of success may find clarity and a re-ignition of what led them to pursue their dreams in the first place. If they are fortunate, they will gain an understanding of what makes them who they are and they will be able to stand firm in the re-invention that will take place. Such is the case with Callann Lane.

Over the last two years, Callann has taken the time and care to step back from a career marked with many successful milestones in order to center on who she is and where she wants to go. Now, she is re-emerging with a new focus and it all began with her name. From Radio Disney to Top 40 radio to the CCM market, her fans will know and remember her as "Cali". In order to trademark her name & likeness, "Cali" was advised to establish herself in the entertainment business as Callann Lane, her birth name.

How did you know God was calling you to pursue a career in music?

Music has always been a part of my life. I began dancing at age 2 ½ and singing followed closely behind. I always knew I’d be performing in some way. When I was 15, I decided I wanted to be a Pop artist. About a year later, I came to know Christ. And that turned my world and music career upside down.

What do you know now that you wish you had known when you first started in music?

You must constantly network to have a career in music, regardless of talent. In the beginning of my career, I let my manager do most of my networking. I’ve never been much of a schmoozer, but being more hands on is the only way you’ll survive. I’ve actually learned to love that part of the music business.

What was it like for you to live in India and work with Project Rescue?

God came up with that wild idea all by Himself. I’m thankful I got to ride along and experience true life in the process of Him moving. I lived there one summer for two months and worked with orphans and rescued victims of human trafficking. It changed my faith, and gave me clear insight into who God created me to be. I met people there that have touched my soul forever. The children taught me so much about faith, love and the beauty of life. I cannot even cover all that God brought me through while I was in India, but I will never be the same.

What did you learn from that experience?

More than anything, I learned to never give up on hope. I saw hundreds of girls rescued from human trafficking, many with daughters and sons running around their feet. I went to India feeling overwhelmed by the issue of human trafficking and left knowing without a doubt in my mind that God fights for them. I befriended an 11 year old that had just been rescued from human trafficking 2 weeks before I arrived in India. The joy within her soul was overwhelming to witness. Sure, she had much healing to do from being abused for so long. But the radiance of the Holy Spirit inside of her shone brighter than her past.

Your bio says that you took a step back from music to re-focus. Talk about that a little.

I took a break from focusing on music to realign my priorities. At that time in my life, God called me to go to India and get married. So I put my music career on hold for a few months to encounter such wonderful experiences. As soon as I got married, I was back in the musical game.

Can you tell us about your EP “Rise Like A Star”?

“Rise Like A Star” is about my journey through life the past 10 years. I grew immensely in the process of recording this album. Many of these songs got me through challenging times, helping me face them head on. I only hope my listeners can learn what I have learned from believing the truth behind these songs.

How would you describe your music?

My music is Pop with a positive message. I grew up on mainstream music, so it’s got that flare with my spiritual journey behind the lyrics.

What message do you hope people would come away with when they listen to your EP?

Above all else, I want people to believe in themselves. Growing up, I was the only thing standing in my way. I knew God believed in who I was, but I didn’t quite believe in my abilities until I was older. I had a hard time putting my perfectionism aside. I wasted so much time doubting who I was. I desperately crave for other young women to realize their worth and to see themselves as God sees them.

You play the main character in the musical “Broken”. What was that like for you?

The main character’s life in “Broken” is almost identical to my story. I even renamed the main character Callann Lane because I felt like this story was written about me. In that sense, I take pride in being able to share my life with the world, even the ugly moments. God has seen me through some wild journeys, and I desired for people to learn from my mistakes and my life-changing decisions. As my husband once said, “All you have is your story.” If I don’t share that, what’s the point in living?

What's your favorite part of “Broken?

Oh wow. I’m not sure I could pick one because the whole package is extremely moving. One of my favorites is the rawness in the boyfriend scene. It’s uncomfortable and awkward, like you can feel Callann’s heart being ripped into pieces. It’s so true to life, it’s scary.

What's the coolest prayer God's ever answered for you?

The best prayer God’s ever answered is to call me His own. I know, it sounds typical, but it rocks my world every day. I am overwhelmed by the love He pours out on me. My relationship with Him is by far the only thing worth living for. The day He called me his daughter was such an eye-opening day.

What advice would you give to people trying to pursue their dreams?

First off, hone in on the gifts God has given you. Be specific about dissecting those too. Once you have a clearer picture on what God has gifted you with, be bold with your dreams. Don’t let excuses get in the way or those dreams will never become a reality.

What's your favorite Bible verse?

Mark 5:34 “He said to her, ‘Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering.” I adore that entire story in the bible and there is so much to unpack in that one little passage. I repeat this verse in my head all the time.

What are you most thankful for this year?

My husband. We’ve grown so much this year and I’ve seen his tender love lavished upon me. Over the past 2 years, I’ve experienced what it’s like to become like one, him complementing my shortfalls. My relationship with him is humbling, exciting, enlightening, and inspiring. It’s an honor to share life with him every day.

Do you have any New Year’s Resolutions?

Ha, I’ve been putting that off so far. I like to make resolutions that are truly meaningful to me. One day, I will make the time to search my heart and eventually write them out. I’m not very good at completing resolutions, but I’m a big believer in shooting for your goals.

You're in line at Starbucks. What are you ordering?

I don’t go to Starbucks often, but if I do, it’s a Caramel Apple Spice. I don’t drink coffee, so I’d rather be in line at a chocolate shop!

Three things always found in your refrigerator:

Hmmm, ketchup, potato chips, and whipped cream

Is there anything you'd like to say to Titletrakk.com readers?

Check out our “Broken” the musical trailor at www.BrokenMusical.com to get a better idea of what I’m into these days! And twitter me: @CallannLane

Watch the trailer for Broken:

Tracy Darlington is a freelance writer, and her work has appeared in Brio, Breakaway, YS, CCM Magazine, Insight, Susie Magazine, and other publications. She has interviewed countless Christian musicians including Rebecca St. James, Delirious, Newsboys, Leigh Nash, Barlowgirl, Krystal Meyers, Joy Williams, Pillar, Michelle Tumes, and many others. In her spare time she can be found riding horses or listening to music and sipping a Venti 3-shot sugar-free vanilla latte. Visit her online at her blog where she talks about Music, God, dogs and coffee. You can also look her up at Twitter and Facebook.