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Michael Passons Breaks Silence: His Truth About Avalon, Christian Music & 20‑Year Return (Part 1)
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Part 1 of 2: Discover the untold story behind one of Christian music’s biggest voices. In his most in‑depth interview ever, Michael Passons, founding member of the GRAMMY‑nominated group Avalon, sits down with Patrick Custer to share the highs, lows and hidden battles that shaped his journey. From singing hymns as a toddler in Yazoo City, Mississippi, to being discovered by Sparrow Records and launching Avalon in 1995, Michael takes you behind the scenes of the group’s meteoric rise. Hear how hits like “Testify to Love,” now considered a gospel classic, nearly didn’t make the cut, and why the band’s ABBA‑inspired sound stood out in the CCM world.
This rare conversation explores themes of mental health, faith and resilience without shying away from the pressure of fame, imposter syndrome and the weight of carrying a secret. Michael reflects on his connection to his mother, the power of music as therapy, and what it felt like to juggle creative success with personal turmoil. If you’ve ever struggled with perfectionism, wondered what happens backstage, or simply need encouragement on your own healing journey, this episode is for you.
And the story isn’t over - Part 1 ends just before a life‑changing revelation that will forever alter Michael’s path. In Part 2 we’ll dive into that revelation, the fallout that forced him out of Avalon, and how he rebuilt his life and faith while preparing to return to music after nearly twenty years away from the spotlight. Make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss it.
Takeaways:
- In the podcast, we dive into how Avalon went from being unknown to winning an American Music Award, which was a total game changer for us!
- Michael Passons shares his journey of stepping into the spotlight, facing challenges, and navigating the complexities of fame in Christian music.
- We discuss the evolution of Avalon's sound and how our management played a crucial role in shaping our success during the 90s music scene.
- The episode highlights the importance of being true to oneself while managing public expectations, especially in the Christian music industry.
- We explore the rollercoaster of emotions that come with fame, including the struggle with imposter syndrome and the pressure to maintain a certain image.
- Michael's heartfelt stories remind us that behind every successful artist, there are personal battles and moments of vulnerability that shape their journey.
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Are you ready to heal and grow? Start your journey with me by signing up at thepatrickcustershow.com 👈 for exclusive updates, resources and behind‑the‑scenes insights from each episode. It’s your invitation to experience “entertainment that heals,” where vulnerability becomes strength and hope is contagious.
Please click Follow on this page so you never miss an episode (and help us continue to change lives) — I appreciate every single one of you for joining this community.
Whether you’re here for your own growth or because someone you love shared this conversation, I’m grateful you’re listening and want to welcome you to The Patrick Custer Show family. Please pass this episode along to friends, family and anyone who might need a lift. When we open up about our struggles and triumphs, we remind each other that we’re not broken, we’re becoming.
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🤝 Sponsor Spotlight – Bright Horse Counseling
We’d like to thank our episode sponsor Bright Horse Counseling, one of Nashville’s most respected therapy practices. Their clinicians specialize in trauma, PTSD, personality disorders, anxiety, addiction, maternal mental health, couples work and more. Bright Horse blends embodiment, insight and research‑backed modalities like DBT, EMDR and trauma‑informed yoga. They offer secure telehealth anywhere in Tennessee and have a no‑nonsense relational style.
- Website: talktobrighthorse.com
- Phone: 615‑637‑7000
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