Dennis Collins humbly shares the journey that brought him to the New Canaan Society over 20 years ago and then led to him becoming part of the worship band that played each Friday morning for many years.
Dennis also describes the upbringing that provided a rock-solid Christian foundation, how that foundation has helped him navigate the world of entertainment, and how he has tried to provide that foundation for his own children.
Although Dennis almost seems embarrassed when he hears someone list some of the legendary musicians with whom he has performed**, he talks about times when his career provided opportunities to winsomely share his faith and times when he had to gently but confidently defend his faith. He also vulnerably describes his commitment to do the right thing in God’s eyes and how it has required him to turn down certain assignments.
Collins emphasizes the importance of Christians continuing to study and grow in their faith and suggests some of his favorite books and passages of the Bible. He also explains why it is important for our work to be integrated with our faith.
In an extended 15-minute Q&A, Dennis discusses, among many other things, how he has been intentional about drawing boundaries in order to remain connected with his wife and children despite a career in the music and entertainment industry.
**He has recorded and performed with such artists as: Ray Charles, Diana Ross, Bob Dylan, Aretha Franklin, James Brown, Stevie Wonder, Roberta Flack, Smokey Robinson, Bruce Springsteen, Carole King, Bonne Raitt, Steely Dan, Alicia Keys, Jackson Brown, Jon Batiste, Whitney Houston, Celine Dion, Beyoncé, Billy Joel, Sting, Ralph MacDonald, Jimmy Buffet, Willie Nelson, Carly Simon, Patti LaBelle, Bette Midler, David Bowie, James Taylor, Sheryl Crow, Faith Hill, Jewel, Nelly, Ja Rule, Clay Aiken, The Blue Man Group, Lauryn Hill, Moby, Angelique Kidjo, Al Jarreau, Serge Gainsbourg, Patti Austin, Donald Fagen and many others.