In the school of hard knocks, Nate Sallie has mastered the skills it takes to succeed. Starting out, Sallie had a desire to play basketball, but after that dream was lost due to an injury, Sallie realized his other love would be the one God had destined him to fulfill. His life had changed but he was even more determined to do God’s will and walk that path wherever it lead. He had no idea what God had in store for him, but he was resolved to do whatever it took to accomplish that purpose.
With his basketball career over, Sallie was free to focus all of his energies to his music. Classically trained on the piano, he started writing with an impassioned vigor. Sallie was offered his first recording contract while in college only to be told after signing it, that the label had put a freeze on all new releases. Without even spending one day in the studio, Sallie was once again faced with another closed door. Any other person might have quit, but Sallie was even more determined to follow God’s direction.
Shortly after he was released from that label, Sallie was offered a contract with a different label only to discover another obstacle concerning distribution had developed with that company. Facing another detour, Sallie stayed focused on perfecting his craft and exploring his calling. Sallie calls that time his “Season of Growth” as he delved deeper into his relationship with God.
After that contract ended, Sallie was signed to a new label with the end result much like the first contract. By the next morning following the dissolution, Curb Records had contacted him to join them, thus ensuring Sallie’s career. In an interview, Sallie confessed his deep love for God and discussed the bond that developed through this time of disappointment and upheaval. He explained how it taught him that he had to truly learn to trust in God before the desires he had in his heart would come to pass.
Sallie went on to express how difficult it was for him to believe that the boy who started out singing at the tender age of five in his father’s church, could be singing for thousands while touring. Sallie says his goal is to reach those within his reach, Christian and non-Christian alike. He wants the non-Christians to see something different and to be compelled to find out more about God, and he wants the Christians to be challenged and encouraged.
By: Kris Brown Gabbitas




There are secular rock bands out there that seemingly control and often alter the moods of the young and old alike into a state of disillusionment and negativity. God had risen up a standard against them, that band is Jonah 33.
The band started in 2001 with lead singer/guitarist Vince Lichlyter and drummer Joshua Dougan; they added guitarist Jason Rooney and bassist Cory Riley in 2004. Jonah 33 is very close knit and loves how their music impacts the youth. They remain steadfast to the calling that God has put upon their lives and will not be swayed in their beliefs or convictions. They realize just how important it is to spread the Word of God through song. One of their ongoing discussions is about why people try to hide from God. Another would be, why other bands don’t have an alter call. “We are not ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and we are just along for the ride, wherever God wants to take us.” Jonah 33 released their self-titled debut album in 2001 and has climbed the charts with their single "Faith Like That". We are sure with their faith being like that, they will change the world.
By: Thomas Gabbitas