Michael Boggs on Life After FFH, the Formation of Brooke + Boggs & Their New EP "Wildfire"

Originally the long-time guitarist of the popular CCM band FFH in the late 90's and early 2000's, Michael Boggs joins newcomer and worship leader Brooke Voland to form Brooke + Boggs. Together, they are releasing a brand new EP, titled Wildfire on March 31. We are honored to be able to catch up with Michael for this exclusive interview.

Q:  Michael, I must admit that FFH was one of my favorite Christian groups while growing up.  What were some of the highlights for you while you were with FFH?

There were several highlights from FFH. We experienced our first #1 single together, played for over 200,000 people at a festival in Dallas and shared the stage with countless great artists. However, looking back, the most satisfying moments with the band were when people gave their lives to the Lord at a concert. We did an invitation at nearly every concert and people responded in obedience to God. Those are the things that make me look back and smile.

Q:  What happened there?  Why did you leave FFH?

FFH had planned on taking a break anyway in 2006. We also found out that Jeromy was diagnosed with MS that year. It just seemed like the right time to take a break. Jeromy and Jennifer moved to South Africa, Brian started a music business management company and I started recording on my own. We've had opportunities to re-launch the band with the four of us but I think we all felt like that season had ended. Although, it was a great season!

Q:  How then did you get to form Brooke and Boggs?

I asked a friend of mine who the best worship leader in Nashville was. He said Brooke Voland. I had never heard of her before but when I finally got a chance to see her lead, I knew my friend was right. I asked her to lead with our team at Kairos one night and she graciously accepted. I felt like that night I knew something was different about leading with her. After a few months of leading together, our families began to pray about the possibility of us partnering together in ministry. Then, a few months later, we were recording our next EP. 

Q:  How would you describe your style of music now as compared to that of FFH? 

I think our music is definitely aimed at corporate worship for the church. FFH wrote songs we'd sing to people, Brooke and I are trying to write songs we sing with people. 

Q:  Congratulations on the release of "Wildfire."  Why did you call the EP "Wildfire"?

In the Message's paraphrase of Acts 2 it says that "the Spirit spread among the people like wildfire." Brooke and I have been praying that for our churches, homes and families. It's not just the title of the EP, it's the center piece of most of our prayers.

Q:  Did the two of you write all or most of the songs on the EP? What are some of the songs you are excited about on this record?

Yes, we did! I'm most excited about "Grace Upon Grace." It comes from John 1:16 that says "out of his fullness we have all received grace upon grace." Sometimes I think that I done something just outside of God's grace and there isn't enough to cover my mistakes, but the reality is that no matter what we've done, God's grace is greater than our sins. 

"The Cross Stands" is another song we are excited about. We've had the opportunity to lead this song and were reminded of how much we need to be reminded of this truth. The Cross was a place of unspeakable tragedy, brutal death and unfathomable pain, but God brought life out of that mess and extended that same life to us. The cross stands over our guilt, shame, mistakes and faults. 

Q:  How do you wish this EP could be used in the service of God and His Church? 

I hope that the music would encourage people. I hope that this music is a gateway to help others worship Him. I hope that people might even sense the presence of God when they hear these songs. At the end of the day, I want God to use it however he sees fit, but if it finds its place helping people worship, I would love that.

Q: What's next for Brooke and Boggs?  Are you following it up with a full-length album?

We're not sure yet. We've promised to take the next step, whatever that means and wherever that goes. We're just trying to be obedient, putting one foot in front of the other.

 

 

 

Tags : michael boggs brooke + boggs brooke and boggs wildfire grace upon grace FFH michael boggs ffh brooke voland