#2 - The Harmonious Journey of David and Nicole Binion
NRT's Janice Rigel and husband Danny talk with husband-and-wife worship leaders David and Nicole Binion about ministry, marriage, and how a shared calling has helped shape their journey
For David and Nicole Binion, worship isn't just something they do–it's the heartbeat of their lives. Whether leading a congregation, writing powerful songs, or simply sharing impromptu melodies at home with their children, music is woven into every part of their journey. Having dedicated their lives to ministry, the husband-and-wife duo have walked through decades of music, faith, and family, all while staying true to their calling.
In this heartfelt conversation for NRT's Couples Corner, David and Nicole share their love story, the unexpected connections that brought them together, and the realities of balancing marriage, ministry, and music. They reflect on their early days in the industry, discuss the joys and challenges of working together, and even reveal some fun quirks in a rapid-fire Q&A session.
Get inspired as David and Nicole Binion open up about their journey, faith, and deep love for worship. Watch the full interview below and enjoy our exclusive Q&A with this dynamic couple.
Welcome, David and Nicole! We're so thrilled to have you on the show today. Since this is Couples Corner, let's start at the beginning–how did your love story unfold?
David & Nicole Binion: Thank you! We're delighted to be here. Well, let's see–back in 1962... (laughs). Actually, we just celebrated 30 years of marriage! Our story began in the late 1980s. David and his sister were writing and recording music together, and they came to sing at my home church in Indiana. Our families became close, and eventually, David moved to our church as the worship pastor.
Fast forward a few years–we started dating in 1992, got engaged in 1993, and married in 1994. Worship and the church brought us together; we've been on this journey ever since.
That's such a beautiful story! David, how did you propose?
David: I had the proposal planned out pretty well. I had gone on a trip to Israel and bought our rings in Bethlehem–pretty confident she'd say yes! I took Nicole on a carriage ride in downtown Chicago when I returned. It was cold, so we had a blanket over us. While holding her hand under the blanket, I slipped the ring onto her finger without saying a word.
Nicole: I just looked at him, smiled big, and of course, said yes! (laughs) And don't worry–he officially proposed afterward!
That's so romantic! Let's move on to some fun rapid-fire questions. Who's the better cook?
David & Nicole: (both laugh) David!
Who's the funnier one?
David: Definitely me!
Who's the bigger clean freak?
Nicole: Oh, that's me, no question. I can't function with clutter!
Who said "I love you" first?
David: I think I did! Or at least I'll take credit for it. (laughs)
Shifting gears a bit–have you ever faced misconceptions or stereotypes about being a married couple in Christian music?
Nicole: Not so much within the music industry, but in ministry, there can be assumptions about the roles of men and women. As a woman, I've had to juggle motherhood and ministry, and sometimes people assume my role isn't as significant as David's. But we've always been partners in this calling.
David: One time, someone told our admin, "I just wish David would step aside and let Nicole be a soloist." But we know what we bring together and are confident in that. Nicole is an incredible vocalist, and I'm the songwriter, but our combined gifts make our ministry what it is.
How did you both get started in Christian music individually before working together?
David: My dad was an evangelist, and we traveled in ministry. I started writing songs at 15, and a gospel legend, Rusty Goodman, discovered me at a church service. He called Word Music on the spot and told them they needed to sign me. I had no idea what I was doing, but suddenly, I was writing music professionally.
Nicole: I always knew I wanted to sing–I had dreams of musical theater, but church was where I found my passion. When David and I met, he and his sister were already writing and recording. Then one day, his sister got sick, and he asked me to fill in for a TV performance. I knew all their songs by heart, so I stepped in. It wasn't romantic yet, but looking back, it's funny how God orchestrated everything!
What are some of the unique challenges of being a couple in Christian music, and how do you overcome them?
Nicole: My biggest challenge has been balancing family and ministry, especially when our kids were young. We traveled full-time for 10 years, and I always prayed that God would provide trustworthy people to help with our children. He was always faithful in that.
David: For me, I had to learn over the years that if something mattered to Nicole, it needed to matter to me, too. Early on, I was a bit more laid-back, but I've grown to appreciate the importance of being intentional in navigating marriage, family, and ministry together.
That's such valuable insight! Thank you both for sharing your journey with us. Before we wrap up, where can people find your music and stay connected?
David & Nicole: You can visit us at binionmusic.com for our latest music, tour dates, and more. We're also on social media, so come say hi!
This interview was transcribed and edited with the help of ChatGPT, OpenAI, February 26, 2025.
Janice Rigel is a Christian author, speaker, podcast host, comedian and everyone's bestie. She can be found at JourneyWithJanice.com.
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