We are but clay in God the Father's hands, and He molds each and every one of us to be unique in personality, look, and purpose. Like snowflakes, there are no two of us that are exactly the same. Good or bad, God molded me to be unique with a capital "U." I was a bit "different" before I was saved by the grace, mercy, and blood of Jesus Christ--and I would have to say that I am even "differenter" since coming to faith.

In most cases there is a scriptural basis behind the songs I write. I would have to say that many Christian songwriters rely on the Bible for inspiration, so in that I am not a maverick. Where I am non-conformist is in sound and style. There is no other current Christian recording artist that I am aware of that sounds even remotely like me. Does my sound make me better than the others? Whether or not the Jim Yackel sound is better than others is a matter of opinion, and many would probably say "no." However, if you are seeking lyrics that evangelize for the Lord and sing praises to Him--with a pop/rock sound and groove unlike anything else happening today--I might be your guy.

Wearing the 10-gallon hat of the Maverick has its price. If I endeavored to mimic the sound of other contemporary Christian recording artists I would likely be selling more records. Instead, I make the sound that I make; believing it is what God wants me to do.

Leading worship or performing in concert should be fun for a Christian music artist. I believe it is definitely OK to smile when leading worship and to exude joy. If the musicians appear as though they are finding joy in what they are doing, the congregation or audience is more likely to find joy as well. After all, it is a privilege to make music for the Lord and the performing musicians should be having fun! Additionally, pithy prayers led by the worship leader for individuals in that specific congregation who are sick or troubled can be wonderful, worshipful, and potentially healing. The worship leader should seek the congregation's participation in these prayers. Jesus said, as written in the Bible in Matthew chapter 18, verses 19 through 20: ¹⁹"Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. ²⁰For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them."

If you are a specific church seeking a permanent worship leader or team member, I am not a viable candidate for that position. Being maverick-like in nature, I may not conform to your particular corporate structure. I represent the body of Christ as a whole, not a particular edifice in a specific location. However, if you are seeking a guest worship leader who brings passion, energy, and some fine praise music, you may feel led to look me up. If you're seeking a unique Christian/Rock recording artist for concerts, outreach, fundraisers and other events, you may want to consider the Maverick.

Blessings have been poured out on me for which I am thankful. Jesus, I am more thankful to you than mere words can describe. Every day, I endeavor to make my life a living sacrifice to you Lord. This fallen world continues to confront me with obstacles, distractions, and pain. Yet you, Jesus, bring me great joy! Hallelujah, all praise be to You! You have given me life everlasting. You have given me music and a ministry. Please continue to fill me with your Holy Spirit and may it always guide me, my risen Lord. In your precious name Jesus I pray. Amen.

Thank you, folks, for reading. I pray that your days will be filled with blessings and that you will serve our Holy God with dedication and gratitude.--Jim

It was then, on a cold, rainy, Saturday afternoon in November 1974 that I wrote my first song, titled "Where Have You been." Excited, I ran and played it for my parents who were equal parts amused and indifferent. At that time I was a fledgling singer and not yet good, which diminished the overall presentation of my newly discovered craft. Still, I remained undaunted and continued to crank out songs that sang of puppy love and deep relationships I was too young to understand. I tried my best to sound like the Beatles and hoped that I would be a teenage phenom!

In the autumn of 1976, (there is that season again) I formed my first band, which included Andy Rudy, who thirty years later I would record the CD Agapé with. That band in '76 was called "Aries" and did not make me the teenage phenom that I hoped to be. Into 1977 Aries would last, with an ever-changing cast of musicians, all of whom attended West Genesee High School with me and none of whom I have seen in many years--except of course for my good friend Andy.

I was obsessed with "making it big" in the music business. This obsession was