Fernando Ortega is a recording artist based in Albuquerque, NM, and played an instrumental role in the Christian music renaissance of the 1990s. As a young adult, Fernando was involved in music education and ministry, and soon after, began touring as a Christian singer-songwriter. Fernando is best known for his thoughtful arrangements of traditional hymns, including “Give Me Jesus” and “Be Thou My Vision”, which, through their success, made him one of the most prominent Christian artists in the world.

Fernando has an extensive discography of 22 albums, he has won 3 Dove awards, and has had songs rank on the Billboard 200 and Billboard Christmas album charts. He’s also toured with Amy Grant and Vince Gill, and recorded with Alison Krauss and Union Station. 

Some of the topics we cover during our conversation today are challenges as a songwriter - specifically within a religious community; how it was the music of Brahms that, as a teen, encouraged him to find new meaning in life; and the solidarity Fernando hopes to find with his listeners through his songs.

The songs featured in this episode are, in order of appearance:

"Mildred Madalyn Johnson" by Fernando Ortega, released in 2004 on album "Fernando Ortega". Provided by Curb Records, Inc.

"Traveler" by Fernando Ortega, released in 2002 on album "Storm". Provided by World Entertainment.

"Dragonfly" by Fernando Ortega, released in 2004 on album "Fernando Ortega". Provided by Curb Records, Inc.

Fernando Ortega's music and social media:

http://www.fernandoortega.com/

https://open.spotify.com/artist/6mGZXaZ4SWNh6IsJ57thCp?si=6WsV26DCS7eCt5ADO_Ckow

https://www.instagram.com/fernandoortegamusic/