Religion & SpiritualitySpiritualityMusic

Band Pit to Pulpit

Brandon McCrae

What happens when God calls you out of the background and places you on the frontline?

Welcome to Band Pit to Pulpit, hosted by scholar, producer, and minister Dr. Brandon McCrae (aka @BmacMusik). Rooted in the power of Revelation 12:11: "We overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony". This series dives deep into the unfiltered, inspiring, and transformative journey of transitioning from behind the instrument to behind the pulpit.

Designed for musicians, worship leaders, emerging preachers, and kingdom creatives, Band Pit to Pulpit interrogates life’s pivotal shift from music ministry to pastoral leadership. Through candid stories, practical wisdom, and spiritual insight, Dr. McCrae unpacks how divine timing transforms your creative skills into a powerful platform for ministry.

Whether you are a musician seeking purpose, a minister stepping into your calling, or a believer needing encouragement to share your testimony, this show offers a blueprint to help you transition, grow, and thrive.

Subscribe now and join the journey

Play

Open in

18 episodes
Avg 8 min
English

Episodes 18

Newest Oldest Longest

All18 Unplayed18 In progress0 Played0

S2 · E3
Today · 41 min
BEYOND THE PLATFORM w/Raymond Darius Jackson
What happens when the platform is no longer the point? On this episode of Band Pit to Pulpit, I sit down with my friend Raymond Darius Jackson, Director of Worship & Creative Arts at Beulahland Bible Church, for a conversation that reaches far beyond music. We talk about creativity, leadership, trust, ministry, and what it means to serve when God gives you influence without allowing the platform to become your identity. Raymond and I have shared enough life and ministry to have a conversation that goes beyond the surface. We talk candidly about being trusted with responsibility, navigating leadership, developing people, and understanding that sometimes the greatest evidence of growth is what you do with the freedom you’ve been given. My granddaddy used to say: “You gave me enough rope to hang myself, but I didn’t.” That idea opens the door to a larger conversation about trust, stewardship, maturity, and leadership. What do you do when somebody believes in you enough to give you room? And what kind of leader do you become when you no longer have to prove that you belong in the room? This one is about more than the band pit. It’s about what happens BEYOND THE PLATFORM. If this conversation speaks to you, LIKE the episode, COMMENT with what stood out, SHARE it with somebody who needs the conversation, and SUBSCRIBE to the channel as we continue the journey from the band pit to the pulpit. Same call. Different seats
S2 · E2
September 23 · 36 min
HE SAW THE PULPIT BEFORE I DID | Bishop Teco Manuel
Sometimes the people God uses to recognize your next are the same people who help you release your now. In this personal episode of Band Pit to Pulpit, we talk with Bishop Teco Manuel about music, Christian ministry, spiritual calling, and faith transitions. Before the pastoral title and before the vision was clear, Bishop Teco saw potential beyond the band pit. If you are navigating a transition in your faith, feeling a push toward leadership, or learning to trust God's timing when He pulls you beyond what people already know you're gifted at, this conversation is for you. Subscribe to Band Pit to Pulpit on Spotify and Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode on purpose, faith, and leadership!
S2 · E1
September 20 · 21 min
MORE THAN A MUSICIAN: What Happened Between Seasons
In the Season Two premiere of Band Pit to Pulpit, the camera turns toward me as Executive Producer Mr. Devin Jackson steps behind the camera and asks the questions. This is more than an introduction. It’s an honest look at the journey between seasons: the transitions, rejection, unexpected opportunities, difficult lessons, open and closed doors, and the moments that helped move me from professional musicianship into full-time pastoral ministry. Some of the story unfolded publicly. Much of it didn’t. In a candid question-and-answer conversation, we unpack what changed, what it cost, what I learned, and how I can now look back and recognize that even when I couldn’t understand the process, God wasn’t wasting any of it. I also open and close this episode with a few thoughts of my own, setting the stage for the people and conversations you’ll encounter throughout Season Two. Because Band Pit to Pulpit has never simply been about changing professions. It’s about calling. Formation. Rejection. Transition. Purpose. Obedience. It’s about what happens when God calls you beyond the place where you’ve already found success. MORE THAN A MUSICIAN. The story behind the sermons. The journey behind the titles. The process behind the platform. Welcome to Season Two of Band Pit to Pulpit. The journey continues…
September 19 · 37 sec
Welcome to season 2
We are kicking off this brand-new season with a fresh, intimate podcast-style format. Building on the foundation we laid last season, Dr. McCrae takes you deeper into the raw complexities, subtle details, and divine purpose behind walking out a season of transition. If you’ve ever found yourself navigating a shift, whether in ministry, career, or personal calling, this conversation is designed to meet you right where you are. Join the movement, pull up a chair, and stay tuned for the journey ahead as we elevate kingdom conversations and showcase what God is doing behind the scenes. To support the podcast and help spread the message, make sure to execute the core three: Like this episode to help boost visibility on streaming platforms. Comment your biggest takeaway or personal story of transition. Share this episode with someone in your network who needs encouragement today. Listen & Connect Subscribe to Band Pit to Pulpit on your favorite podcast platform and hit the notification bell so you never miss a new release! Holla at your boy, and let's keep the conversation going.
S1 · E7
September 18 · 6 min
The Pivot to Purpose | Band Pit to Pulpit Season Finale
Title: The Pivot to Purpose | Band Pit to Pulpit with Dr. Brandon McCrae Episode Summary In this powerful season finale of Band Pit to Pulpit, host Dr. Brandon McCrae gets candid about what it really takes to step out of your comfort zone and walk into your calling. After years of balancing life as a full-time worship pastor and a gigging musician on the road with secular artists like Peabo Bryson, Dr. McCrae shares the exact moment God told him to pull back and step into pulpit ministry full-time. Transition isn't easy, but it is necessary. Dr. McCrae reflects on the hard phone calls, the shift in his career, and the power of standing firm in faith through times of uncertainty. Whether you are facing a massive life pivot, stepping into leadership, or waiting on your next open door, this episode serves as an inspiring roadmap for remaining steadfast in the fight and trusting God with your future. Key Takeaways Hearing the Call: Dr. McCrae’s experience receiving a confirming word to leave the secular touring circuit and shift fully into pastoral ministry. Navigating Difficult Transitions: The reality of stepping away from established roles and making hard choices to align with your higher purpose. The Power of Testimony: Why sharing the rough side of the journey helps others navigate their own spiritual and professional shifts. Staying in the Race: Encouragement on remaining faithful, patient, and prepared for the doors God is about to open. Listen & Subscribe Stream Band Pit to Pulpit on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform. If this message blessed you, please leave a rating, write a review, and share it with someone who needs encouragement in their season of transition! Let's make something God go viral!
S1 · E6
September 17 · 10 min
The Legacy Continues
Legacy, Expectations, and the McCrae Music Mentorship What happens when the music pit meets fatherhood? In this powerful episode of Band Pit to Pulpit, host Dr. Brandon McCrae sits down with his sons, Benjamin and Ethan, for a transparent look at faith, family, and musical heritage. Dr. McCrae opens up about the pivotal moment he learned he was going to be a father at 23—and how the wisdom from his own parents reframed a terrifying situation into one of the greatest blessings of his life. Then, the mic flips. Benjamin shares the real-world pressure of stepping into the musical spotlight as "Brandon Jr.," navigating high expectations, and stepping into his own identity while honoring his father’s influence. Ethan rounds out the conversation with pure heart, sharing what it’s like growing up with a multi-instrumentalist dad who inspires his own musical dreams. Key Topics Covered From Panic to Purpose: Dr. McCrae on facing young fatherhood, overcoming fear, and finding God's grace in unexpected turns. Carrying the Name: Benjamin on the weight and pride of following in a prominent father's musical footsteps. The Musical Mindset: How the McCrae family shares ideas, sharpens each other's talents, and communicates through music. Fatherly Legacy: A heartwarming look at mentorship, brotherhood, and raising the next generation of musicians. Listen & Subscribe Catch new episodes of Band Pit to Pulpit on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform. Don't forget to rate, review, and share this episode with someone who needs a reminder that God can turn any test into a testimony. Let's make something God go viral!
September 17 · 1 min
A Wife’s Witness
If Episode 18 was the weight of a father’s voice, then this is the warmth of a wife’s witness. In this deeply personal continuation, we sit with the one who’s walked every rhythm of this journey with me—my wife, Dr. Erica B. McCrae.She’s been the quiet strength behind the scenes, the steady anchor through storms, and the discerning voice beside every major decision. Long before pulpits and platforms, she saw the call and stayed. This isn’t just a testimony—it’s a tether. The perspective of the one who’s held my hand while God held my future. From the band pit to pastoral leadership, this is an admonition from a place of covenant and calling.
September 17 · 1 min
To Future Brandon : From Mom
As we close out this deeply personal journey, I pause to receive what every servant needs when stepping into a new season: a blessing. In this final round, I welcome words that will ground me as I move towards the call to senior pastoral leadership. We begin with the one whose prayers covered me before I ever preached a sermon: my mother. Her voice launches this sacred sendoff, setting the tone for a finale full of grace, wisdom, and holy expectation. This isn’t just an ending; it’s a commissioning. A benediction. A moment of divine clarity as I step into the “next” with faith, gratitude, and vision.
September 17 · 1 min
A Father's Blessing
In this special conclusion to my series, Band Pit to Pulpit, we sit with the man who not only gave me his name but helped shape my call, my father, Bishop Wade S. McCrae. I affectionately call him “Rev.” He’s been my pastor, mentor, protector, and blueprint for spiritual leadership. This isn’t just a conversation—it’s a commissioning. A final word from the one who first showed me how to stand behind a pulpit with integrity and fire.
September 17 · 2 min
Who is Bishop BKH ?
My Spiritual Father. The man… the myth… the mentor… the preacher… the prophet… the poet. @drbriankeithhodges is a gift I never saw coming, but one I’ll forever be grateful for. His wisdom, guidance, and unwavering example have left an undeniable mark on both my music and ministry far beyond what words can capture.
S1 · E5
September 15 · 9 min
#TeamMcCrae: Introducing Dr. E
In this episode of Band Pit to Pulpit, host Dr. Brandon McCrae is joined by his wife, Erica B. Thompson-McCrae, for an honest, transparent conversation on navigating life, marriage, ministry, and music together. In This Episode: How They Met & The Six-Year Wait: Dr. BMac shares the humorous story of slipping his phone number into Erica’s phone at church six years before they officially began dating and eventually marrying within seven months. The Reality of Being a Musician's Wife: Erica opens up about the unique challenges of supporting a heavily booked musician, managing travel schedules, and holding down the home front with their children. Overcoming Doubts & Stereotypes: Erica addresses initial skepticism from family regarding a career as a full-time musician and how Dr. BMac’s work ethic and versatile talent proved his ability to provide. Stepping Into Ministry Together: The couple reflects on Dr. BMac’s transition into preaching, Erica’s own spiritual transformation, and her journey toward earned seminary degrees and her upcoming initial sermon. Embracing the Unboxed Role: A conversation on resisting traditional "first lady" expectations, preparing for future pastoral leadership, and honoring wives in ministry. Join the Community: Enjoying the podcast? Support the show by leaving a review, sharing this episode with a friend, and subscribing on your preferred podcast platform to stay updated on new releases. Let's make something God go viral!
September 15 · 1 min
My Little Sister
My Teola Nicole…She was my first child, my football tackling dummy, my personal driver. She is my ride or die! She’s the only girl of the bunch and my baby sister. IYKYK‼️🤞🏾😏
September 15 · 1 min
Keeping it real with Mom and Dad
Keeping it real with Mom and Dad clip
S1 · E4
September 14 · 3 min
A Mother's Love w/ Elder Diann V. Riley
In this episode, we're sitting down for an intimate, heart-to-heart conversation with my mother, Elder Diann V. Riley, as she shares her perspective on my journey as both a musician and a minister Mom's Memories Pots, Pans, and Recitals: Remembering my early days as a 3-year-old banging on pots and pans, to watching me command multiple instruments during my 2011 Valdosta State University recital. The First Sermon: What it felt like to watch her firstborn step into his calling at Union Baptist Church, balancing nervous energy with the visible mantle of both of his parents. A Prophetic Vision: My mother speaks a powerful word over my future, declaring how God will use my unique path to reach corporate executives, non-believers, and spaces others cannot enter. Parental Pride: A look at the shared joy, pride, and spiritual foundation that laid the groundwork for my life in ministry and music. God gives the gift, but the prayer and support of a mother help nurture it into full purpose. Join the Movement & Spread the Word: If this conversation blessed you, don't keep it to yourself! Take a quick second to Like, Share, and Comment on this episode right now. Hit that Subscribe button on your favorite podcast platform to stay locked in with us every week. Let's make something God go viral!
S1 · E3
September 14 · 5 min
Honor and Healing w/ Bishop Wade S. McCrae
In this deeply personal and moving episode of Band Pit to Pulpit, Dr. Brandon McCrae (BmacMusik) opens up about the powerful dynamics of fatherhood, faith, and the long road to restoration. Reflecting on his close relationship with his father and bishop, Bishop Wade S. McCrae, Dr. BMac shares how their connection today is built on a foundation of grace, forgiveness, and wise maternal guidance. After his parents’ divorce during his teenage years, life became tumultuous. Despite the emotional distance, Dr. BMac recalls seeing his dad every day driving school bus #9, holding onto a complex mix of anger and presence. He shares how his mother, Elder Diann, intervened with life-changing wisdom, reminding him he has only one father and urging him to foster that bond regardless of the past. Tune in as Dr. BMac and Bishop McCrae reflect on: The Power of Maternal Wisdom: How Elder Diann’s encouragement helped heal a son's heart and pave the way for a restored father-son relationship. Fatherhood & Affirmation: The profound impact of receiving a father’s blessing, ministerial sanction, and daily encouragement.Unforgettable Ministry Moments: Bishop McCrae looks back on the unforgettable moments of Dr. BMac’s musical and preaching journey, from surprising the church on the keys to preaching his pastor’s anniversary sermon. Dr. BMac closes with a poignant reminder: no matter the history, honoring your roots creates room for God to build a powerful legacy. Did this message touch your heart or speak to your own journey of reconciliation and growth? Don't keep it to yourself! Like, Share, and comment on this episode right now. Make sure to hit that Subscribe button on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode of Band Pit to Pulpit. Let's spread the message together! Let’s make something God go viral and walk this journey together.
S1 · E2
September 14 · 6 min
The Evolution ; The impact of music and spiritual development
In this episode, we're diving deep into the intersection of music development and spiritual development. For me, they’re the same because my foundational training started right in the church under two of the greatest preachers in the world: my parents. We’re unpacking what it means to hone the gift of music when God calls you to adapt: Pew Baby Roots: Growing up in Union Baptist Church and watching my parents' 38+ year ministry shape my music and my life. The "Hitman" Mentality: How learning to step up wherever there was a need turned me into a multi-instrumentalist who can adapt to any group or space. Mastering the Instruments: From getting two degrees in percussion, to receiving the gift of organ through prayer and prophecy, to inheriting bass gigs across Tallahassee from mentors like John Tony and Mike Ferg. Quartets on Guitar: The story of how "Mississippi" James Stanton taught me lead guitar using just three sheets of notebook paper so I could play quartet music. God gives the gift of music, but it is up to us to cultivate it. Join the Movement & Spread the Word: If this story speaks to your journey, don't keep it to yourself! Take a quick second to Like, Share, and Comment on this episode right now. Hit that Subscribe button on your favorite podcast platform to stay locked in with us every week. Let's make something God go viral!
S1 · E1
September 14 · 2 min
" In the Beginning " Music Development
Grace and peace, fam! I’m Dr. Brandon McCrae, aka BMac Musik. Music development is an interesting term, but for me, it all started in my father's church. From sitting on my cousin's lap learning how to keep time at three years old, to stringing together my first drum kit on an old Ludwig Vista Lite, the church was where my musical foundation was forged. In this episode, I'm taking you through the raw, early chapters of my journey: Roots in the Church: How early exposure to worship music shaped my fundamental development as a young musician. The Marching Band Jump: Leaping from middle school with no band program straight into the high school drumline at band camp. Key Mentors: The pivotal roles teachers like Mr. Paul Gilbeau, Mr. Kirk Kimbrough, and Leon Anderson played in elevating my craft. Doors Opening: How God consistently opened one door after another, leading all the way to a music scholarship at Florida State University. Every step of the way, God was developing the musician in me for something greater. Join the Conversation & Stay Connected: Don't journey alone! Take a second to Like, Comment, and Share this episode with someone who needs a dose of inspiration today. Make sure to Subscribe to Band Pit to Pulpit on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode. Let’s make something God go viral!
September 14 · 1 min
More Than a Musician : From Band Pit to Pulpit
Grace and peace, fam! I’m Dr. Brandon McCrae, aka BMacMusik. Revelation 12:11 tells us that we overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony. But so often, we keep those powerful stories locked away. I’m letting you in on an inspiring, thought-provoking journey of how God transitioned me from the band pit to the pulpit, from musician to minister. In this multi-part series, we’re going to interrogate my life so you can gain, glean, and be uplifted by what God can do when you step into your purpose. Join the movement: Do three quick things for me right now—Like, Share, and Comment on this post! Let’s make something God go viral and walk this journey together. Hit subscribe and come along for the ride!

Showing 1–18 of 18 episodes