Interview: Caleb Noeldner
Singer-songwriter Caleb Noeldner, from Eau Claire, WI, recently released his first single 'Create in Me a Clean Heart'. Louder Than The Music caught up with him to hear all about his background making music, the inspiration behind his new single, and his thoughts on music in general.
For those who haven't heard of you before, can you tell us a bit about yourself and how you got involved in making music?
When I was six, I started playing piano. I had some wonderful teachers along the way. I was originally going to college for music but then switched paths to teaching/coaching. Then, I started making music with a friend, and he released the album Riven: A Chasing of the Wind. I enjoy making music with friends and cousins.
Tell us about your new single 'Create in Me a Clean Heart' and what the inspiration behind it was?
This song is based on Psalm 51, written by King David after his sin involving Bathsheba and arranging the murder of her husband. King David was a musician himself. If he were to put these words to music, I always wonder how he would sing it. The daily struggle with sin is real. However, the message in Psalm 51:12-13 is powerful, "Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, And uphold me be Your generous Spirit. Then I will teach transgressors Your ways, And sinners shall be converted to You." King David doesn't simply acknowledge his sin and ask for forgiveness. He says, "Then I will teach transgressors Your ways, And sinners shall be converted to You." That is a crucial part of our mission here on earth.
Do you have any plans to release further music in the near future?
I plan to continue songwriting and collaborating with friends and family, involving more instruments.
What message would you like people to take from your music?
From this particular song 'Create in Me a Clean Heart', my hope is that this song reaches anyone struggling with guilt of any kind and finds the comfort and joy of God's abounding forgiveness.
How would you describe your style of music and what are your influences?
Given the context of 'Create in Me a Clean Heart', I wanted this song to have a meditative, reflective, yet positive feel. In the future, I would like to release upbeat, uplifting music. Music from Nashville is my jam. I have a variety of genre influences including Indie-folk, Christian, Alternative, and Soft Rock.
If you could work with any songwriter, who would it be and why?
There would be MANY I would love to work with, but Ellie Holcomb would be one. I like her style and it'd be fun to collaborate.
How would you define success in your career as an artist?
Being able to reach others and make a positive difference in their life, while sharing the good news!
What is your favorite album of all time?
The Reckoning by NEEDTOBREATHE!
You're stuck on an island, it's hot, you only have enough battery life left to listen to one song on your phone. What track is it?
'Sweet Ever After' by Ellie Holcomb (feat. Bear Rinehart of NEEDTOBREATHE)
What does the next year hold for you?
I will be moving out west to be closer to family. I'll be teaching and continuing to make music. Anticipating many hiking and outdoor adventures!
