Abu, Lopez bring music to Village Baptist

Christian saxophone recording artist Eirinn Abu and international recording guitar artist Manny Lopez will be in concert at 7 p.m. July 16 at Village Baptist Church, 101 Matthew Blvd. in Destin. They will introduce the new CD, “HYMNS.” Admission is free. Abu will also be the featured musician at the 9 and 10:30 a.m. worship services July 16 in the sanctuary.

Abu began playing at age 10 in Maryland when his mother gave him his first sax. Everything then took a backseat to his love of the saxophone and his growth as a truly gifted musician. He began his musical studies in the fourth grade and played in bands throughout middle and high school, eventually being awarded most musical in high school.

During college his attention turned to the health care industry, and he became a successful sales and marketing executive. But, while taking a walk one day, God intervened and reunited him with his saxophone in a pawnshop in Atlanta, giving him a second chance to make music, he told The Log in 2012.

His career path changed back to total commitment and a grueling schedule of rehearsing and recording music. His efforts were rewarded with his first independently released smooth jazz CD, featuring accompaniment of the Miami Sound Machine and the writing of Jon Secada.

The artist is now known for giving his instrument a new voice — the “saxy voice of 21st century music,” full of soul and emotions. His peers call him the instrumental version of Josh Groban and Andrea Bocelli. His talent has warranted Dolly Parton’s singing her “I Will Always Love You” on his Christian CD, “A New Creation.”

Abu and his wife, Brandy Doyle, moved from Nashville, Tennessee, to Rockledge, Florida, more than five years ago with their ministry, Music For Life Ministries. Recently they relocated to Venice, Florida, where they continue to share their music ministry with churches around the country as they have for more than six years.

When Abu was interviewed by The Log before his 2012 performance at The Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation’s Concerts of the Season, he said he wanted to make a difference in people’s lives through his music.

“God gave me this beautiful talent to be used for HIS glory. I want our music to help people feel peace and love in their hearts. Our ministry is compassionate and full of love. God has given me a testimony from my own trials and life’s experiences to help others going through their own storm.”

Abu currently has eight CD’s available, including two with guest artist Dolly Parton.

Manny Lopez has recorded with many pop artists such as Gloria Estefan, Jennifer Lopez, Shakira, Ricky Martin and others.

Abu and Lopez created the CD “HYMNS” together, releasing it this past Easter. The CD will be available after each worship service in the foyer of the church or at www.shop.eirinnabu.com.

Songs on “HYMNS” include "Mary, Did You Know," "In the Garden," "Amazing Grace," "Hallelujah," "Blessed Assurance," "Just As I Am," "The Old Rugged Cross," "The Prayer," "Because He Lives" and "How Great Thou Art."

Visit www.soundcloud.com/eirinn-abu to sample Abu’s music.