Michael Passons was a founding member of Avalon, one of the biggest Christian music groups of all time. He wrote and performed "Testify to Love," a song that became an icon of Christian music. But when he came out as gay, he was forced out of the band and lost everything.
Now, Michael is rewriting his story — and breaking records doing it. He just rereleased "Testify to Love" as an LGBTQ+ affirming anthem with country artist Ty Herndon, and together they became the first openly gay artists to reach #1 on the iTunes Christian charts.
In this episode of You Can Be Both, Michael sits down with host Lauren Lanzaretta to share his full journey: Growing up in rural Mississippi. His dream of becoming a Christian music artist. What it felt like to be kicked out of Avalon for being gay. His spiritual deconstruction and finding faith again on his own terms. And what it means to finally sing authentically.
This is a powerful conversation about survival, resilience, and reclaiming your voice.
IN THIS EPISODE WE TALK ABOUT:
Michael's journey as a founding member of Avalon and writing the iconic "Testify to Love"
Growing up in rural Mississippi in a conservative Baptist church
Realizing he was gay and the internal struggle that followed
Being forced out of Avalon for coming out
His spiritual deconstruction and stepping away from organized religion
Finding his way back to faith and spirituality on his own terms
Rereleasing "Testify to Love" as an LGBTQ+ affirming anthem with Ty Herndon
Making history as the first openly gay artists to reach #1 on iTunes Christian charts
What it means to sing and live authentically
His message to LGBTQ+ people still in the closet
Advice for worship leaders who've been kicked out of church
The power of reclaiming your voice and your story
FOLLOW MICHAEL:Instagram: @michaelpassonsSpotify: Michael PassonsApple Music: Michael PassonsYouTube: Michael Passons
FREE LGBTQ+ HEALING & RESOURCE GUIDE:Access Lauren's full story, healing resources, books, podcasts, and voices that have helped transform shame to freedom.Visit: laurenlanzaretta.com/youcanbeboth
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