Caleb Rowden brings Christrian rock to Jackson

In the past, rock 'n' roll has never been mistaken for music you might hear in church, but a musician is coming to Jackson that might change that.

National recording artist Caleb Rowden — a native of Columbia, Mo. — will perform Aug. 1 at CrossRoads Fellowship in Jackson. Taking his message of love for Jesus Christ across the Midwest, Rowden is in the midst of his four-month "Lead Me To The Cross" tour.

Rowden made his entrance into the Christian music market in 2006 with his debut single, "You Are Holy." He has three songs currently airing on Christian music station 107.9 KHIS, including his first hit single and Christian music chart-topper "Made," the title track of his debut album "Free From Ordinary" and "The Journey."

KHIS broadcaster Kevin "Just Kev" Alexander said Rowden's music may not fit into the traditional "worship artist" mold, but it does not take long to hear the heart of this passionate worshipper.

"I know that people might see something about this being Christian music and some might ignore Caleb," Kev said. "But we've had a very positive response from everyone to him, and I used to be a rock guy myself and I can tell you Caleb rocks."

KHIS, organizer of the concert and past area Christian music events, is a not-for-profit and listener-supported contemporary Christian music station. Kev said these events prove Christian music has a place in the local rock- and blues-dominated music culture.

"Although this is a sporadic thing we are doing now, these concerts are drawing very well and creating awareness ... which makes us think about other shows," he said. "I think people are still learning about this. But the simple truth is when you bring live music to people that they like, they will come back for more and they might bring friends."

CrossRoads Fellowship is at 4400 E. Jackson Blvd. in Jackson. Admission to the 7 p.m. concert is free, however a "love offering" will be taken to help Rowden and his band with their expenses. For more information about Caleb Rowden check out www.myspace.com/calebrowden or www.calebrowden.com. For more about 107.9 KHIS go to www.khisradio.org.