Randy Stonehill: A Look at a Christian Entertainer

Randy Stonehill is always busy, ideas always buzzing around in his head mixing with truths hidden in his heart. The gift of a living God has manifested as songs of encouragement, truth, love, childlike humor and faith. Randy has always been someone special who has never taken his place in the spotlight and Christian celebrity status too seriously, nor has he ever had a big head about it either.

In March and October of 2007, Randy graced the Chicago area suburbs with his presence, his gift of song, humor, and a new band. Says Randy "God just dropped these guys in my lap, and it's only the beginning." In a magazine interview, Randy stated that having a band is "an idea whose time had come once again." Simply known as the "Randy Stonehill Band", the musicians named were responsible for convincing Randy to return to his rock n' roll roots. Guitarist Ben Abney / Mike Pachelli, Steve is on Bass, and Randi Scott on Drums.

All of these fine individuals hail from Lake County, Illinois. All with the exception of Mike Pachelli who resides in the sunny state of California not too far from Randy. Being on the road for these gentlemen is like being at home, what with a luxurious tour bus outfitted with everything that makes a home a home, except for a shower. This is just a minor set-back however. Randy's recent Illinois dates brought him to Judson College in Elgin, Illinois where local band "The least of These" opened for him, and then the October 12th date brought him to Aurora, Illinois at the Warehouse Church. The date in Aurora featured Mike Pachelli on Lead Guitar for the first time. Mike is filling in for Ben Abney who is currently back in college. Randy is happy to allow this because he knows the value of education.

At each of these shows, Randy performed a full set of all of his well known classics. "Father Of Lights", "Rachel Delavoryas", "Everything You Know Is Incorrect", "Baby Hates Clowns", and a host of other works highlighted each event. Randy's humor has not ever run dry either, evidenced by new jokes that left ribs sore. After concerts, Randy still continues his tradition of signing CD's and other products, spending time unselfishly with fans who often times become close friends. Speaking to Randy's unselfish heart and personality is the fact that he recently partnered with Mike Pachelli to form "Stonehill Productions", a production house focused on giving a chance to unsigned, independent artists.

Over the past 14 years, Randy has taken time to counsel and encourage this author, forming a close friendship. Randy recently performed with an unestablished artist...Nina Wichman at Vineyard City Church in Tuscon, Arizona. Says Nina "Randy gave unselfishly of his time to me, created a warm, welcoming environment, and it was tons of fun for all." Nina had to wait over 20 years to welcome Randy to the stage, but it finally came true.

What marks Randy as a true artist is his openness, integrity, risk taking, creative yet honest thought put on paper transcribed to music that inspires, teaches, speaks to matters of real social justice, and endears him to everyone. Randy is a leader, an ambassador of true Christianity, and spokesman for Compassion International. "Who Will Save The Children?" which was written in 1984, featured on his hit album "Celebrate This Heartbeat" became the compassion International anthem. Also notable of Randy is that he adopted a lieele girl in the 80's named Dina Pierre who was only ten years old. Since then, Randy and Dina have become like father and daughter.

Randy has a daughter who is 25 years old now and pursuing a college education. All of Randy's works reflect Randy's life. They are all true songs from his own experiences, with the exception of one song in which he speaks of a sister who had passed away. New songs are in the process of being released, namely "Broken Places" and "Life Is Tough, God Is Good". Bold new statements on being real in life. Reality is something that Randy is well versed with, and he prefers such to fiction any time. Yet another genuine Stonehill quality, being real. Reality has become an obsession in our society now, but that it has become sensationalized has created a new brand of fiction. (this author's emphasis).

Though Randy loves God, he is not in any way a "religious heretic" as some folks perceive Christian entertainers. He keeps it real and doe so with respect and sensitivity. Randy has always remained open to his fan's feedback to a reasonable extent. These things mark Randy as a rare jewel. Randy's recent shows, his past shows have always created a night of great memories. In that Randy has never sought out to be out on a pedestal is something that has propelled him.

Randy Stonehill is truly on the Edge of Broken Places with a unique ministry that brings life to anyplace he goes.. If ever one has the chance to see him live, don't pass it up!