Michael W Smith Albums

Christian music news: FREEDOM CONCERT 2009 - Michael W Smith "There She Stands"

2009-11-04T01:21:00.000-08:00

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Christian music news: Kelowna BC CANADA

2009-10-28T01:20:00.000-07:00

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Christian music news: Michael W.Smith Aleluia (Barcelona)

2009-10-21T01:19:00.000-07:00

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Christian music news: Michael W.Smith Aleluia (Barcelona)

2009-10-14T01:19:00.001-07:00

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Christian music news: Michael W Smith "Mighty To Save"

2009-10-07T01:18:00.000-07:00

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Christian music news: Local choir for Michael W. Smith concert full

2009-09-30T23:05:00.000-07:00

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Michael W. Smith’s New Hallelujah Mass Choir made up of Sioux Falls area singers is at capacity.

More than 500 singers called and e-mailed for the 100 spots for the chorus backing Smith Nov. 5 at the Sioux Falls Arena.

Longtime Sioux Falls resident and singer-musician Stuart Norberg is the choir director, with John Mogen assisting.

Grammy Award winner Smith performs with guests Matt Maher, Phil Stacey, Meredith Andrews and the local choir.

Tickets are available at all TicketMaster locations or by calling (800) 745-3000.

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Christian music news: Michael W. Smith Taking Part In Wamp Campaign Event

2009-09-23T23:40:00.000-07:00

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Michael W. Smith, contemporary Christian singer/songwriter, will take part in a fundraiser for governor candidate Zach Wamp in Nashville.

It will be Sept. 29 at the home of Steve and Milah Lynn "Last Dance" at
530 Jackson Blvd.

It will include a general reception at 6:15 p.m. followed by a performance by the singer at the $250-per-couple event.

Hosts are Micki and Jim Amos, Debbie and Mike Ballard, Kelly and Dan Crockett, Charlie and John Howell, Stephanie and Stephen Scioscia and
Vicki and Dr. David Watts.

Co-hosts are Tara Dawn and Jon Christensen, Katy and Mark Graham,
Valerie and Julian Head, Elaine and Bob Jackson, John Juric, Sharon and Mark Oldham, Jane and Steve Richards and Karen and Steven Simpson.

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Christian music news: Michael W. Smith to headline concert at riverfront bandshell

2009-09-16T23:08:00.000-07:00

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Prayer and patriotism will come together Saturday night on Davenport's riverfront.

"A Night to Honor Our Heroes" at the LeClaire Park bandshell is a Christian concert headlined by nationally known singer Michael W. Smith. Veterans can get free tickets to the event at several locations.

The concert came together quickly, said Kathryn Bohn, Davenport, who is one of the organizers. Smith committed to the concert two months ago.

"As I've said, 'God has our back on this,'" she said. "It is one of the most incredible things I've been involved with, and the concert hasn't even happened yet."

The organization started slowly after Bohn had the inspiration to put on a concert saluting veterans and active military after a visit by President George W. Bush during the 2004 campaign.

"Because I wasn't in the military, I couldn't get any support," she said.

Watching evangelist John Hagee's television program, Bohn saw the person she needed to get involved, retired Lt. Gen. Leroy Sisco, the chief executive officer of the Military Warriors Support Foundation.

"When I met the three-star retired general, doors started opening," she said.

Sisco praised Bohn and the Quad-Cities for its patriotism. His organization will receive money raised at the concert.

"Hope is the biggest thing you can give (wounded soldiers)," Sisco said. "Hope can provide an opportunity."

Military Warriors Support Foundation provides academic scholarships, workforce re-training and job placement assistance. The foundation also provides recreational opportunities and counseling.

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Christian music news: Michael W. Smith to play at Arena on Nov. 5

2009-09-09T23:01:00.000-07:00

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Grammy-Award winning Christian musician Michael W. Smith will perform Nov. 5 at the Sioux Falls Arena. Matt Maher, Phil Stacey, Meredith Andrews and Local Mass Community Choir also will perform.

Smith is touring to support his third worship album, “A New Hallelujah,” which was released last fall. “A New Hallelujah” is Smith’s 21st studio album and follows two widely acclaimed albums, “Worship” and “Worship Again.”

Smith has sold more than 15 million albums in his Christian music career and has earned multiple Grammy and GMA Dove Awards. According to Smith’s Web site, he is working on a new album, to be released in the fall or spring of next year.

Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. Sept. 12 and will be available at all TicketMaster locations or by calling 334-8181.

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Christian music news: FREEDOM CONCERT 2009 - Michael W Smith "There She Stands"

2009-09-02T03:59:00.000-07:00

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Christian music news: Here I am To Worship, Michael W. Smith

2009-08-26T02:47:00.000-07:00

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Christian music news: michael w smith - ( Draw me close )

2009-08-19T02:38:00.000-07:00

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Christian music news: Michael W Smith - Awesome God

2009-08-12T02:32:00.000-07:00

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Christian music news: Christian Artist: Michael W. Smith

2009-08-05T02:30:00.000-07:00

Latest christian music: Michael Whitaker Smith was born in Kenova, West Virginia, on October 7, 1957, the son of an oil refinery worker and a caterer. At age 5 he wrote his first song. At age ten he gave his life to Christ and he spent the remainder of his youth with a group of strong Christian friends. However, once he was in college he found a new group of friends and started experimenting with alcohol, drugs and partying.
In 1978 he moved to Nashville to work as a songwriter and he quickly started playing music with a local band. A year later he hit bottom and recommitted his life to Christ.In 1981, he signed to Meadowgreen Music as a staff writer. He joined Amy Grant's band as a keyboardist in '82 and the following year released his first album. Michael wrote all the music and his wife Debbie wrote the lyrics. The release garnered him a GRAMMY nomination for Best Gospel Performance.
25+ years later he has become one of the best-known names in Christian music. Smitty has won several Dove and GRAMMY Awards, has topped Billboard charts and has sold over 13 million CDs. He has founded a teen club as well as a record label and written several books. In 2009 he was inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame.

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Christian music news: Spoken Like a True Veteran

2009-08-03T02:11:00.000-07:00

Latest christian music: After twenty years as a Christian recording artist, it seems like Michael W. Smith has done it all—pop music, an orchestral album, film scoring, and two highly successful worship albums, not to mention authoring a handful of books. But this past spring, Michael tried his hand at something new once again: spoken word. The Gospels Come to Life company tapped Michael to read for their first edition of audio Gospels on CD and cassette. We talked with Michael W. Smith, as well as Michael Ring (general & managing partner of The Gospels Come to Life) about the challenges and goals of the project. In addition, we got a glimpse of what fans can expect musically from Smitty over the next year.

What was your initial reaction when you were asked to be a part of The Gospels Come To Life project?

Michael W. Smith: My first response was, "You know, I'm not really sure I'm the guy to do this." When you think of a spoken word project, you think of Charlton Heston or radio guys—people who have great speaking voices. I, on the other hand, have a bit of a southern accent. Would that be offensive or not as powerful? I didn't know. I remember telling Chaz, my manager, "I think it'd be a great project, but I don't think I'm the guy." I guess I got talked into it and we decided to give it a whirl.

It was a lot harder to stay focused than I anticipated. My brain would get depleted of oxygen from reading so much, so I'd have to take breaks, walk outside, and take a big deep breath or two. My part took about two weeks to record because I was really only good for about four hours a day. After that, I was spent, but I was also glad I did it.

How did Smitty become a choice for the voice of this project?

Michael Ring: When Michael became a choice, that's when he became the choice. The search was over once he was a true option for us.

I know a few people who happen to know Michael's management team. We were having a discussion about the narrator in late September of last year and Michael's name came up. That was on a Friday, Michael was asked about it that next Monday, and by Tuesday he had committed to do it. It was that fast.

In what kind of settings do you picture people listening to this project?

Michael Ring: Anywhere there's a CD player. I picture people sitting at home listening to it or driving in their cars. It's my dream to pull up to a red light hearing Smitty coming out of the speakers talking about Jesus versus some kind of pumping music.

How did you approach the speaking aspect? What did you find yourself keeping in mind throughout the recording sessions?

Michael W. Smith: I didn't want to be overdramatic with it. It was the first time I'd ever done something like this, so I really learned a lot. I had a concept of what was going to happen, but the reality was completely different.

A big issue was how much it would wear me out. You'd think that's not a big deal, but it takes constant concentration on the words and tone in order to sound powerful but not overly dramatic. It's not like reading the paper—a few hours of that kind of focus and concentration made me feel like I had been run over by a truck.

At first, I wasn't looking forward to listening to it. But I played the CD a few weeks ago and thought, "You know, that's really okay. I could probably listen to that." I feel I sounded better than I thought I would, and that's very rewarding to me.

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Christian music news: The Real Dubya

2009-06-29T02:07:00.000-07:00

Latest christian music: Best-selling recording artist Michael W. Smith hasn't recorded a pop album in five years—but he's hardly been idle or absent. Instead, he's been busy with other worthwhile projects since 1999's This Is Your Time. In 2000, he recorded an instrumental album, Freedom. In 2001, he released the live Worship CD, which went platinum and prompted the 2002 sequel Worship Again. Then came The Second Decade in 2003, celebrating his 20th anniversary as a Christian recording artist. So now at long last we come to Healing Rain, Smith's 18th album, and fans are curious what to expect. We jumped at the chance to visit Smitty's farmhouse getaway to talk about the new music, the people he's been working with, and his longtime friendship with President George W. Bush.

So you're back to pop/rock.

Michael W. Smith Well, it's been a long time coming. I actually started on this record not long after This Is Your Time. I wrote probably 50 or 60 songs for the record, and actually recorded 31 of them. Sometimes you have to keep troubleshooting, and since the record kept getting delayed, I thought I should keep trying to write better songs. There are three on this record that were written three years ago. I think a good song is a good song, and hopefully these will stand up to the test of time.

This was probably the most enjoyable, though hard, time I've had making a record. Maybe it's from not doing it in a while, but I really enjoy being in the studio. It's the producing side of things, getting creative and seeing the album come alive. And during the process, thinking to myself, "Wow, I can still do this!" It's been exciting to dive back into the studio and try new things.

Such as?

Smith Well, for one thing, I didn't think I would produce the record, but I ended up producing 6 of the 11 songs. I'm getting older and I don't think I have my ear to the ground like some of these younger kids do, but I found out that I can still produce.

There are certain things I think I do well, and there are certain things I don't think I do well. There are a few, kind of hip sounding tracks on the album—those are the ones I didn't do! Matt Bronleewe produced four others, and the other one was produced by Sam Ashworth, Charlie Peacock's son.

What about songwriting? You typically match your music with a variety of lyricists.

Smith I got back together with one of my favorite collaborators, Wayne Kirkpatrick, for three songs. I also worked with Wes King for "Eagles Fly," and another with Dan Hill called "Human Spark" that we wrote right after 9/11.

The big surprise for me was making a trek across the Atlantic and writing a few songs with Martin Smith, lead singer of Delirious, who's written so many great songs for the church. We had a blast. I've found a new co-writer. It was such a joy because I would play some musical ideas, and then he would giggle and start to write. Suddenly 30 minutes later, we'd have a song. I love writing with people like that. Wayne Kirkpatrick takes a month to write a lyric, which is okay because it usually ends up pretty amazing.

You recorded some songs at George Lucas' Skywalker Studios in California. Why?

Smith We mostly just wanted to leave town. Recording here in Nashville is great, but it's also detrimental in the sense that we've got cell phones and daily demands that keep us from focusing on creating.

So we looked for a cool place to record, and someone told me about Skywalker Studios. I'm a huge Star Wars fan and of George Lucas' work. We called him, checked into it, and found there was time available to record there for a week. It was absolutely gorgeous and unbelievable. The recording space was this huge and spacious room like Abbey Road. A couple of the tracks from "the Skywalker Sessions" made it onto this record—"Human Spark" and "We Can't Wait Any Longer."

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Christian music news: Smitty Takes a Stand

2009-06-22T01:02:00.000-07:00

Latest christian music: Nineteen albums into his career and less than a year from his 50th birthday, Michael W. Smith continues mixing up his creative palette. On the brand new Stand, the famed singer/songwriter leader merges contemporary pop, praise and a newly developed organic feel—courtesy of producer Matt Bronleewe and co-writer Leeland Mooring, the 18-year-old front man for Leeland, who contributes to seven tunes. Though the messages vary throughout eleven songs, Smitty makes a bold call to the church to not only stand up for its beliefs while reaching out to the world, but also being confident of God's love for his people, despite the Devil's distractions. We talked to Smith about Stand and its concepts, how the church can take a stand, and his take on the current state of Christian music.

How were you able to make the record so quickly, especially after the Healing Rain tour, your family and church duties, plus releasing the movie The Second Chance?

Smith The biggest thing was that The Second Chance was supposed to come out in the fall of '05 and was bumped to February '06, which is when I was supposed to focus on nothing but the new Smitty record. But from January through June, I was traveling around the country promoting the movie, so that was the biggest thing that put me behind—and then trying to find some time to get creative and back into the saddle.

I thought there was no way to get the record done in time for a fall release. The only way to pull it off was to take some risks. I turned over all production responsibilities to somebody else, and felt the need to co-write. I wrote with a 17-year-old kid [at the time] named Leeland [Mooring] and Matt Bronleewe produced the whole record. We cut it in 45 days, and I really like what happened.

Tell me about the more organic direction.

Smith There's no veneer and I think it's very authentic. There's not a synth on the record and it's very transparent and very personal. I think you hear that, especially when you hear me singing and there's not a whole lot of reverb. Although I didn't plan it, the record at least feels like more than just a bunch of songs. It feels like an experience, especially through that middle part that starts with a song I wrote for my daughter called "How to Say Goodbye" through "The Stand" and "Come See." It all feels like I could've done that in church and it would've worked straight through.

How did you discover Leeland and invite him to contribute as a writer?

Smith I heard about the band Leeland through my management and they were having a showcase at The W in Franklin. I caught probably the last three songs of their set and was blown away, not only by the music and songs, but what I saw on stage—the authenticity and heart, especially of Leeland, this kid who didn't even want to become rock star. It was just an anointing—and I don't say that often—and I knew there something extremely special about this kid.

I met him afterwards, got a seven-song CD the next day, and two days later I said, "I've got a wild idea: What if we brought in Leeland to co-write for three or four days?" So I called him up, and he came to town and started writing away. Since then we've become very good friends, and all my kids have fallen in love with him and the whole band.

I had some ideas, Matt had ideas and Leeland came with tons of ideas and we couldn't hit "record" fast enough! In the studio, I was on a little Wurlitzer piano, Matt was on guitar and Leeland on guitar. We just jammed and got excited. Across three days, we had ten ideas that were down and we ended up taking a bunch of them that made it on the album.

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Christian music news: MICHAEL W. SMITH BIOGRAPHY

2009-06-15T00:58:00.000-07:00

Latest christian music: BORN: Kenova, WV

Christian recording star and Yamaha artist Michael W. Smith was the top honoree at the 30th Annual Dove Awards on March 24, carrying away six awards to bring his lifetime total to 22. The Dove Awards, presented by the Gospel Music Association, is the longest-running and most prestigious awards show in the gospel music industry.

Smith was named Artist of the Year and Producer of the Year; received two honors, one as an artist and one as a producer, for his current hit album "Live the Life"; and garnered separate artist and producer nods for his participation in "Exodus," a special-event album. For his performance at the awards ceremony, Smith used his Yamaha CPX15W Compass Series electric-acoustic guitar. On tour and for studio applications, the multi-instrumentalist uses an arsenal of Yamaha musical instruments, including the EX5 synthesizer, P200 digital piano and Disklavier® DGT7 piano.

"Yamaha has always made my favorite pianos," Smith said. "They now make guitars I love. The new Yamaha guitars feel great, sound amazing and offer some unique finishes that make a statement before you play a note."

"We congratulate Michael W. Smith not only for his outstanding achievement at the Dove Awards, but for his ongoing track record of great music with a positive message," said David Bergstrom, director of marketing, Combo Group, Yamaha Corporation of America. "Michael's long association with Yamaha is extremely important to us, and we are pleased that he has chosen Yamaha as both his guitar line and his keyboard line."

In 1998, Smith produced "Live the Life" and "Exodus," joined Amy Grant on her 21-city Christmas tour and visited 45 cities on his own "Live the Life" tour. He was a featured performer during the 1998 Miss America Pageant, and four songs from "Live the Life" --the title track, "Love Me Good," "Never Been Unloved" and "Missing Person" --all reached number one on Christian radio charts. With 5 gold records, 1 platinum record, 22 Dove Awards, 2 Grammy® Awards and more than 7 million sales to his credit, the talented artist is currently in the studio working on his 13th album.

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Christian music news: Michael W Smith releases third worship album

2009-06-08T00:54:00.000-07:00

Latest christian music: Michael W Smith released his 21st career album, A New Hallelujah, this week.
The live album has already received acclaim from media and fans alike, and the album's first single, "A New Hallelujah" is currently in Top 15 at AC on the CRW chart and No 17 on R & R's Christian AC Monitored chart and just surpassed the 60 million cumulative impressions mark in only 11 weeks.
In addition, Smith's co-bill tour with Steven Curtis Chapman "The United Tour" has sold out in more than 75 percent of the markets it's visited since its launch on October 9 in Columbus, Ohio.
Bob Thornton, Promotions Director at the award winning KXOJ in Tulsa, Oklahoma. shares, "Hallelujah! I watched a sold out crowd sing along every word of 'A New Hallelujah' and enjoy every moment of the United Tour. This was not the end of the book for these two great artists but the beginning of a great new chapter."
In addition to the impact on the road and airwaves, Michael has seen incredible feedback on his short-form music video to "A New Hallelujah" which originally debuted on the Yahoo Music Channel's Home-Page and Gospel Music Channel.
A New Hallelujah, Michael W Smith's newest record, and third worship album, was recorded live this June before 12,000 people in Houston, Texas. The record features The African Children's Choir, a 250-voice choir, and a special guest appearance by 2008 Grammy Award-winner, Israel Houghton.
Smith's first worship album, simply titled Worship, released on September 11, 2001, and has sold more than a million-and-a half copies. It's follow up Worship Again released September 19, 2002, and is nearing the 800,000 mark.
Smith was recently honoured by friends including Amy Grant, Jordin Sparks, Ricky Skaggs, Melinda Doolittle, Phil Stacey, Wynonna, Franklin Graham, Max Lucado and others at a tribute event at Nashville's Schermerhorn Symphony Center earlier this month.

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Christian music news: MICHAEL W. SMITH AND STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN CAP HISTORIC UNITED TOUR WITH MULTIPLE SELL-OUTS

2009-06-03T22:33:00.000-07:00

Latest christian music: (NASHVILLE, TN) May 4, 2009 – GRAMMY® award-winning and multi-platinum selling artists Steven Curtis Chapman and Michael W. Smith wrapped up their highly successful United Tour last week, finishing a string of 44 shows with sell-out performances at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium and in Chapman’s hometown of Paducah, Kentucky. That capped off multiple sell-outs on a historic tour that began last fall and continued into the spring, pairing the two iconic artists for the first time in their lengthy careers in front of a cumulative audience of more than 100,000 people.

Both artists performed music from their current albums – Chapman’s This Moment and Smith’s award winning A New Hallelujah, and A New Hallelujah – The Live Worship DVD – while also collaborating together on songs from each of their expansive catalogs. Those collaborative moments on stage became crowd-pleasers each night, giving fans an opportunity to catch shared glimpses of humor and inspiration between the two long-time friends. Concert reviewers caught on quickly to the special moments:

“From the honesty and transparency of discussing his daughter's death to the energy and passion of their greatest songs to the warmth and joy in a loyal audience, Steven Curtis Chapman's pairing with Michael W. Smith on their current tour is a night of inspiration, unity and family…. If your Christian faith is important to you, this is a night that's as worshipful as it is wonderful and it's certainly for you.” (Belief.net)

“Hopefully this won't be the last time Smith and Chapman share the stage on tour together... and hopefully more artists will take cues from these guys on how to make a tour of talent a special night for fans to remember and cherish.” (JesusFreakHideout.com)

“When you get a ticket to a concert featuring Michael W. Smith and Steven Curtis Chapman, there are moments you hope for… These were moments that remind you iconic artists are fully capable of appreciating other iconic artists’ work.” (Rich Copley, Lexington Herald-Leader)

Creative Artist Agency’s John Huie notes, “The United Tour exceeded all our expectations. The way these two iconic statesmen of Christian music intertwined their sets and enjoyed singing each other’s songs is part of the creative process that is missing from a lot of live shows! Three cheers for Steven Curtis Chapman and Michael W. Smith for their history of great work and their humble ability to share it together! For those who were able to see it, this show was truly a night no one will forget!”

“Sharing the stage with Steven, both in the fall and again in the spring, was a privilege for me,” Smith says. “His consistency over the years as a great artist and a great man of faith was evident every single night of the tour. I feel like the timing of this tour, the timing for Steven and I to share the stage together, was God’s timing – and it was worth the wait. I’m so grateful to everyone who came out for the experience. Steven and I will never forget it.”

“The United Tour has been an incredible experience, and how amazing to get to tour with Michael,” Chapman adds. “He was an incredible friend and brother in walking through this time with our family. It’s been a profound opportunity to see friends around the country who have ached and prayed for us and thank them in person. And it’s been important and meaningful for me to declare these truths in my songs again. I think all of us that were part of ‘United’ have learned again at a deeper level the truth of what we’ve been writing and singing all these years... that God is faithful, even when life is hard, and that the Gospel is true and God is worthy of our praise. My sincere thanks to all who worked on stage and off stage, and to all who came to join us on The United Tour.”

Two of Christian Music’s most recognized and beloved artists, Chapman and Smith ended The United Tour on the heels of major Dove Award wins for both of them. Chapman took home the honors for the Gospel Music Association’s Artist of the Year and Songwriter of the Year, while Smith’s A New Hallelujah was named Praise & Worship Album of the Year as well as Inspirational Song of the Year. Together, the two artists have garnered a staggering eight GRAMMY ® awards, 100 Dove Awards, 78 No. 1 singles and more than 30 gold and platinum albums.

Show Hope™, the orphan care ministry originally founded by Steven Curtis and Mary Beth Chapman, was the sponsor for the United Tour's 2009 spring leg. The tour’s response was overwhelming as over 2,400 individuals and families made monthly commitments to sponsor orphan care and adoption. With a mission to share the message of caring for the world’s orphans, Show Hope sponsors will be able to help more orphans than ever before find their forever families. Since its inception, Show Hope has financially helped provide forever homes for over 2,000 orphans from 40 countries, including the U.S. The ministry receives over 150 new adoption assistance requests each month. In addition to those needs, financial support to Show Hope also provides medical care, love and hope to orphans, and specifically special needs orphans at Maria’s Big House of Hope in Luoyang, China, which will house over 100 orphans at full capacity. For more information on how you can support the needs of Show Hope, please visit www.ShowHope.org.

Smith’s long-time ministry partner Compassion International (www.compassion.com) was able to benefit during the fall leg of The United Tour. More than 2,000 orphaned children in Compassion’s program around the world were sponsored as a result of the tour’s first 20 dates. “The fact that literally thousands of orphaned children’s lives were impacted through Compassion International in the fall and Show Hope in the spring is just an added blessing that came about through this tour,” Smith says.

The United Tour also formed a unique partnership with HearItFirst.com. With nearly 200,000 members, HIF proved itself the premiere online destination for behind-the-scenes videos and artist interviews with exclusive United Tour content featuring video of Steven and Michael interviewing each other. HearItFirst.com also partnered with the tour via a home page takeover, information to its members through its weekly newsletter, and a contest that won HIF fans free seats and backstage meet & greet passes in each city.

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Michael W. Smith - Hibernia (Live From Tualatin, Oregon, On 12/12/2008)

2009-05-27T23:21:00.000-07:00

Michael W. Smith performs Hibernia live in Tualatin, Oregon, at Rolling Hills Community Church on December 12, 2008.

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Michael W. Smith - It's A Wonderful Christmas (Live From Tualatin, Oregon, On 12/12/2008)

2009-05-20T23:20:00.000-07:00

Michael W. Smith performs It's A Wonderful Christmas live in Tualatin, Oregon, at Rolling Hills Community Church on December 12, 2008.

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Michael W. Smith - Help Is On The Way (Live From Tualatin, Oregon, On 12/12/2008)

2009-05-13T23:19:00.000-07:00

Michael W. Smith performs Help Is On The Way live in Tualatin, Oregon, at Rolling Hills Community Church on December 12, 2008.

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Michael W. Smith - Oh Little Town Medley (Live From Tualatin, Oregon, On 12/12/2008)

2009-05-06T23:17:00.001-07:00

Michael W. Smith performs Oh Little Town, Emmanuel, and Joy To The World live in Tualatin, Oregon, at Rolling Hills Community Church on December 12, 2008.

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Michael W. Smith - Oh Little Town Medley (Live From Tualatin, Oregon, On 12/12/2008)

2009-05-06T23:17:00.000-07:00

Michael W. Smith performs Oh Little Town, Emmanuel, and Joy To The World live in Tualatin, Oregon, at Rolling Hills Community Church on December 12, 2008.

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Michael W. Smith - All Year Long (Live From Tualatin, Oregon, On 12/12/2008)

2009-04-29T23:13:00.000-07:00

Michael W. Smith performs All Year Long live in Tualatin, Oregon, at Rolling Hills Community Church on December 12, 2008.

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Michael W Smith Awesome God

2009-04-22T23:12:00.000-07:00

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Michael W Smith You Are Holy Prince of Peace

2009-04-15T23:07:00.000-07:00

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MICHAEL W. SMITH'S A NEW HALLELUJAH RECLAIMS NO. 1 POSITION ON NEILSEN SOUNDSCAN CHRISTIAN ALBUMS CHART WHILE A NEW HALLELUJAH – THE LIVE WORSHIP DVD

2009-04-08T01:25:00.000-07:00

(Nashville, Tenn.) March 27, 2009 – Following the impressive launch of A New Hallelujah (10/28/08), Michael W. Smith follows up with A New Hallelujah – The Live Worship DVD. The DVD project debuted at the top of the Nielsen Christian DVD SoundScan chart and the CD reclaimed its No. 1 position on the Nielsen Christian Albums chart.

The new DVD is the video companion to Smith's latest record, and third worship album, A New Hallelujah. Recorded live in Houston last summer before 12,000 people, a 250-voice choir and several special guests including the African Children's Choir and 2008 GRAMMY Award-winner, Israel Houghton, this DVD captures the powerful experience of the evening's worship in high-definition. The 90-minute long project features all 13 songs from A New Hallelujah, plus four new tracks and exclusive behind-the-scenes footage.

Smith's first worship album, simply titled Worship, released on September 11, 2001, and has sold more than a 1.5 million copies. Its follow up Worship Again released September 19, 2002, and is nearing the 800,000 mark.

Michael W. Smith embarks on the United Tour, with friend Steven Curtis Chapman, this weekend. For dates and markets, please visit www.michaelwsmith.com.

About Michael W. Smith
Michael W. Smith has amassed an impressive catalog of achievements. His 20 prior albums have garnered multiple honors including an American Music Award, 3 GRAMMY® Awards (from 13 nominations) and 42 Gospel Music Association Dove Awards, and 33 No. 1 radio hits. In addition, he holds 16 Gold and 5 Platinum albums and career sales approaching 15 million.

Over his 25-year career, Smith has used his platform as a leader and acclaimed entertainer to serve, teach, and lead offstage. Constantly giving back to the community, one of his current projects is Rocketown -- a nightclub for teens in his hometown of Nashville, Tenn. -- which serves as a safe place for young people to enjoy music and for artists to be discovered. He is married to Debbie Smith and they are the proud parents of five children. For up-to-date information on Michael W. Smith, please visit www.michaelwsmith.com or www.reunionrecords.com.

Christian Music News Source

Michael W. Smith Releases A New Hallelujah- The Live Worship DVD

2009-04-01T21:38:00.000-07:00

Michael W. Smith at Daystar Studios with “Live Celebration” hosts, Marcus and Joni

March 17, Michael W. Smith released the video companion to his newest record, and third worship album, A New Hallelujah. Recorded live in Houston last summer before 12,000 people, a 250-voice choir and several special guests including the African Children’s Choir and 2008 GRAMMY Award-winner, Israel Houghton, this DVD captures the powerful experience of the evening’s worship in high-definition. The 90-minute long project features all 13 songs from A New Hallelujah (10/28/08), plus four new tracks and exclusive behind-the-scenes footage. “Smitty” kept busy this street week with the taping of a two-hour special during the network’s “Praise the Lord” show block with special guests Meredith Andrews and Paul Baloche, hosted by Donnie McClurkin. The entire two-hour block was devoted to A New Hallelujah (10/28/08)and A New Hallelujah – The Live Worship DVD (3/17/09). The show will air Friday, March 20, 2009. (Check local listings for airtimes in your area).

Michael also spent time on air with FamilyNet Radio, American Family Radio and Moody Radio and performed live at the Daystar TV Studios where he was featured on three of the network’s anchor shows: “Live Celebration”, “Celebration Music” and the “Joni Show.” Today, Michael was at the Rivers’ Ranch and the guest for K-LOVE’s “Morning Show with Jon and Sherry”.

After a week of hard work promoting his new project, Michael will wrap things up Friday evening with a benefit for Trinity Christian Academy at Watermark Church in Dallas, TX. To learn more about Michael W. Smith, or to watch clips from A New Hallelujah- The Live Worship DVD, please visit: www.michaelwsmith.com.

Christian Music News Source

Michael W. Smith - A New Hallelujah

2009-03-25T20:14:00.000-07:00

Michael W. Smith talks about"A New Hallelujah"

Christian Music News Source

Above All by Michael W Smith

2009-03-12T20:50:00.000-07:00

Christian Music News Source

DOLLY PARTON, MICHAEL W. SMITH, BOBBY JONES, DIXIE HUMMINGBIRDS AND LARI GOSS INDUCTED INTO GMA GOSPEL MUSIC HALL OF FAME THIS WEEK

2009-03-04T07:33:00.000-08:00

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Feb. 4, 2009 -- The GMA Foundation (GMAF) inducted artists Michael W. Smith, Dolly Parton, Dr. Bobby Jones and The Dixie Hummingbirds along with music producer Lari Goss into the GMA Gospel Music Hall of Fame on Feb. 2, 2009 at a ceremony at Richland Country Club in Nashville.

The GMA Gospel Music Hall of Fame was established in 1971 and has inducted more than 150 members since its inception, including 2007 inductees Phil Keaggy, The Statler Brothers, The Winans and Joe Moscheo. Previous inductees include Elvis Presley, Mahalia Jackson, Keith Green, Amy Grant, the Blind Boys of Alabama, Andrae Crouch, Sandi Patty, Vestal Goodman, Tennessee Ernie Ford, 2nd Chapter of Acts, The Oak Ridge Boys, Petra, Bill and Gloria Gaither, the Rambos, Evie, Richard Smallwood, Jake Hess, The Lewis Family, Thomas A. Dorsey, the Fairfield Four, Billy Graham and the Jordanaires.

About the GMA Foundation:
The GMA Foundation (GMAF) is a non-profit educational association working in connection with the Gospel Music Association (GMA) The GMAF recognizes and preserves the history and legacy of all forms of gospel music and provides educational resources that encourage participation and appreciation by the general public. Founded in 1964, the Gospel Music Association serves as the face and voice for the Christian/Gospel music community and is dedicated to exposing, promoting and celebrating the gospel through music of all styles including pop, rock, praise & worship, black gospel, R&B, hip hop, southern gospel, country, and more. The GMA community consists of more than 3,000 members including agents, artists, church leaders, managers, promoters, radio personnel, record company executives, retailers, songwriters and other industry visionaries. The GMA produces the GMA Dove Awards, GMA Music Week and the GMA Academy. For more information, please visit http://www.gospelmusic.org/.

In photo above, from left to right:
Steve Brallier, executive director of GMA Foundation; Inductee Lari Goss; Inductee Lyndon Baines Jones of Dixie Hummingbirds; Inductee Michael W. Smith; Inductee Dr. Bobby Jones; Inductee Dolly Parton; Ed Harper, chairman of the GMA Foundation Board; John W. Styll, president and CEO of GMA; Inductees Dixie Hummingbirds Sundray Tucker (daughter of deceased Ira Tucker), Carlton Lewis, William Bright and Torrey Nettles. (Photo by Aaron Crisler)

Christian Music News Source

Michael W Smith's 'A New Hallelujah: The Live Worship DVD' released in March

2009-03-04T07:31:00.000-08:00

CCM STAR Michael W Smith, recently inducted into the Gospel Music Hall Of Fame, will have his new project 'A New Hallelujah: The Live Worship DVD' released in March. The DVD is the companion to Smith's recent worship album, 'A New Hallelujah'. Recorded live in Houston last summer before 12,000 people, a 250-voice choir the project features special guests the African Children's Choir and Israel Houghton. The DVD "captures the powerful experience of the evening's worship in high-definition." The 90-minute long project features all 13 songs from 'A New Hallelujah' plus four new tracks and behind-the-scenes footage.

Christian Music News Source

MICHAEL W. SMITH RELEASES A NEW HALLELUJAH � THE LIVE WORSHIP DVD MAR. 17

2009-02-25T21:44:00.000-08:00

(NASHVILLE, Tenn.) January 26, 2008 � On the heels of an incredibly successful 2008, including having one of the top-selling and most acclaimed projects of the year and the announcement of his upcoming induction into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame (2/2/09), Michael W. Smith releases A New Hallelujah � The Live Worship DVD on March 17.

This new DVD is the video companion to Smith�s newest record, and third worship album, A New Hallelujah. Recorded live in Houston last summer before 12,000 people, a 250-voice choir and several special guests including the African Children�s Choir and 2008 GRAMMY Award-winner, Israel Houghton, this DVD captures the powerful experience of the evening�s worship in high-definition. The 90-minute long project features all 13 songs from A New Hallelujah (10/28/08), plus four new tracks and exclusive behind-the-scenes footage.

Steve Gilreath, the DVD�s director, notes, �This project truly makes you feel like you were in the room that night, and the HD quality only adds to the experience. It�s amazing how you can feel the room ebb and flow as the evening progresses. This really is more of an �experience� project than a standard DVD.�

Smith�s first worship album, simply titled Worship, released on September 11, 2001, and has sold more than a 1.5 million copies. Its follow up Worship Again released September 19, 2002, and is nearing the 800,000 mark.

About Michael W. Smith
Michael W. Smith has amassed an impressive catalog of achievements. His 20 prior albums have garnered multiple honors including an American Music Award, 3 GRAMMY� Awards (from 13 nominations) and 42 Gospel Music Association Dove Awards, and 33 No. 1 radio hits. In addition, he holds 16 Gold and 5 Platinum albums and career sales approaching 15 million.

Over his 25-year career, Smith has used his platform as a leader and acclaimed entertainer to serve, teach, and lead offstage. Constantly giving back to the community, one of his current projects is Rocketown -- a nightclub for teens in his hometown of Nashville, Tenn. -- which serves as a safe place for young people to enjoy music and for artists to be discovered. He is married to Debbie Smith and they are the proud parents of five children. For up-to-date information on Michael W. Smith, please visit www.michaelwsmith.com or www.reunionrecords.com.

For more information on Michael W. Smith, visit the JFH Artists Database

Christian Music News Source

MICHAEL W. SMITH RECEIVES FOUR GMA DOVE AWARD NOMINATIONS ACROSS MULTIPLE CATEGORIES TODAY

2009-02-25T09:48:00.000-08:00

(Nashville, Tenn.) February 20, 2009 – Michael W. Smith, one of Christian music’s most revered artists, released his 21st album A New Hallelujah on October 28 amid fan and industry acclaim. Today Michael was honored with three nominations directly tied to this incredible project. A New Hallelujah received a nod in the Praise & Worship Album of the Year category, where he is recognized as artist and producer, and in the Inspirational Recorded Song and Worship Song categories for the moving title track, “A New Hallelujah.”

In addition, Smith was also credited for his contribution to Billy: The Early Years Official Motion Picture Soundtrack which was nominated in the Special Event Album category.

On March 17, Smith will release A New Hallelujah – The Live Worship DVD. This new DVD is the video companion to A New Hallelujah. Recorded live in Houston last summer before12,000 people, a 250-voice choir and several special guests including the African Children’s Choir and 2008 GRAMMY Award-winner, Israel Houghton, this DVD captures the powerful experience of the evening’s worship in high-definition. The 90-minute long project features all 13 songs from A New Hallelujah, plus four new tracks and exclusive behind-the-scenes footage.

Following the busy DVD launch week, Michael W. Smith and Steven Curtis Chapman will once again hit the road together for the spring leg of “The United Tour.” Kicking off March 28, in Chattanooga, the tour will hit 24 cities across the country including Cleveland, Baltimore, Visalia, Colorado Springs, Little Rock, Indianapolis, Lexington, Nashville and more. For an updated tour itinerary, please visit www.michaelwsmith.com.

About Michael W. Smith:
Throughout his 25-year career as a recording artist, Michael W. Smith has amassed an impressive catalog of achievements. His 21 albums have garnered multiple honors including an American Music Award, three GRAMMY ® Awards (from 13 nominations), 42 Gospel Music Association Dove Awards and 33 No. 1 radio hits. In addition, he holds 16 Gold and five platinum albums for career sales approaching 15 million.

Smith, who was recently inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, has scored several film projects, written 11 books and has been featured by media outlets including, NBC’s Today Show, Good Morning America, NBC Nightly News, Larry King Live, FOX and Friends, Hannity and Colmes, USA Today, NY Times, The Washington Post, LA Times, Newsweek, has been named one of People Magazine’s Most Beautiful People and has presented multiple times on the GRAMMY Awards show. His tours consistently rank among the best attended in the country and he has performed to capacity crowds throughout the world. Constantly giving back to the community, one of his current projects is Rocketown--a nightclub for teens in his hometown of Nashville, Tenn.--which serves as safe place for young people to enjoy music and for artists to be discovered. He and wife Debbie Smith are the proud parents of five children.

Christian Music News Source

Michael W Smith sings When I Think of You

2009-02-18T19:00:00.000-08:00

Christian Music News Source

Smith, Parton inducted into Gospel Music Hall of Fame

2009-02-18T07:51:00.000-08:00

Michael W Smith, Dolly Parton, Dr Bobby Jones and The Dixie Hummingbirds were inducted into the Gospel Music Association's Gospel Music Hall of Fame along with music producer Lari Gosson in a ceremony at Richland Country Club in Nashville on 2 February.

The GMA Gospel Music Hall of Fame has inducted more than 150 members since its inception in 1971, including 2007 inductees Phil Keaggy, The Winans and Joe Moscheo. Previous inductees include Elvis Presley, Mahalia Jackson, Keith Green, Amy Grant, Andrae Crouch, Sandi Patty, and Bill and Gloria Gaither.

Smith has been on the Christian music scene for more than a quarter of a century and released his latest album, A New Hallelujah, last November to critical acclaim.

Dolly Parton, meanwhile, has several gospel albums to her name and her Dollywood theme park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, houses the Southern Gospel Music Museum and Hall of Fame.

President and CEO of the Gospel Music Association Foundation John W Styll paid tribute to the latest slate of inductees.

"This year’s class of GMA Gospel Music Hall of Fame inductees have all achieved great professional and personal success in many different areas of the music and entertainment industries,” stated Styll, “but each shares a common heritage of the Gospel’s powerful impact on their lives.”

Founded in 1964, the Gospel Music Association serves as the face and voice for the Christian/Gospel music community and is dedicated to exposing, promoting and celebrating the gospel through music of all styles including pop, rock, praise & worship, black gospel, R&B, hip hop, southern gospel, country, and more.

Christian Music News Source

New Hall Of Fame-ers

2009-02-11T17:28:00.000-08:00

Some Christian music greats are headed for more fame.

Information from The GMA Foundation says that among others, they will induct artists Michael W. Smith and Dolly Parton into the GMA Gospel Music Hall of Fame on Feb. 2 at The Richland Country Club in Nashville. The Imperials, featuring the original back-up singers for Elvis Presley and Hall of Fame members, will provide entertainment for the event.

Born in Kenova, West Virginia on Oct. 7, 1957, Smith wrote his first song at age five. In 1978 he moved to Nashville to work as a songwriter and in 1981, he signed to Meadowgreen Music as a staff writer, where over the next few years he provided gospel hits for such artists as Sandi Patty, Kathy Troccoli, Bill Gaither and Amy Grant. He began touring as a keyboardist with Grant in 1982 and the following year, after releasing his first album, The Michael W. Smith Project, became her opening act. His debut album garnered him a Grammy nomination for Best Gospel Performance. He became a headliner following the release of his second album, Michael W. Smith 2.

Now, a quarter century after his first taste of success, he has become one of the best-known names in Christian music with 18 albums, too many No. 1 hits to count, three Grammy Awards (amidst 13 nominations), 42 Dove Awards, and an American Music Award among countless other accolades. Beyond his own musical career, Smith was instrumental in launching a teen club in Nashville, a record label with an entirely new way of doing things (Rocketown Records), and even a church in Franklin, Tennessee.

Dolly Parton is a household name. Dolly Rebecca Parton, born January 19, 1946 grew up part of a poor, Pentecostal family of 14 in a small town in Tennessee's Smoky Mountains. Her grandfather was a fiddling preacher who wrote Singing His Praise, which was recorded by Kitty Wells. At the age of 12, Parton was appearing on Knoxville TV and, at 13, she was already recording on a small label and appearing at the Grand Ole Opry. After graduating from high school in Sevier County in 1964, she moved to Nashville to launch her career as a country singer.

Parton is a Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter, author, actor and philanthropist. In the 42 years since her chart debut, she remains the most successful female country music artist, with 26 No. 1 singles, a record for any female performer, as well as a record 39 Top 10 country albums. She also has the distinction of having recorded a Top 40 country hit in each of the last five decades.

Smith is being inducted into the contemporary/inspirational section while Parton of course heads for the southern gospel/country group. Until next week, God bless.

Christian Music News Source

Michael W. Smith to be Inducted into Gospel Music Hall of Fame

2009-02-11T10:42:00.000-08:00

Christian music legend Michael W. Smith and Country music star Dolly Parton will be among the latest additions to the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, according to an announcement this week.

The Gospel Music Association Foundation (GMAF) will also be inducting Dr. Bobby Jones, The Dixie Hummingbirds and music producer Lair Goss into the GMA Gospel Hall of Fame next month, announced GMAF president and CEO John W. Styll on Wednesday.

"This year’s class of GMA Gospel Music Hall of Fame inductees have all achieved great professional and personal success in many different areas of the music and entertainment industries,” stated Styll, “but each shares a common heritage of the Gospel’s powerful impact on their lives.”

Established in 1971, the GMA Gospel Music Hall of Fame honors and celebrates the economic, cultural, social and spiritual contributions past and present that Christian and gospel music have made not only to Music City, but to the world.

Since its inception, the Hall of Fame has inducted more than 150 members, including The Winans, Elvis Presley, Amy Grant, Andrae Crouch, and Sandi Patty.

This year’s induction ceremony and dinner will be held on Feb. 2 at The Richland Country Club in Nashville, starting with a medallion ceremony and reception at 6:30 p.m. The induction ceremony and dinner will begin at 7:30 p.m.

Source

Michael W Smith to enter Gospel Music Hall of Fame

2009-02-04T10:34:00.000-08:00

Legendary worship artist Michael W Smith will be inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame next month.

Smith, who has been on the Christian music scene for more than a quarter of a century, will be joined in the Hall of Fame by country music start Dolly Parton, Dr Bobby Jones, The Dixie Hummingbirds and music producer Lair Goss.

President and CEO of the Gospel Music Association Foundation John W Styll paid tribute to the latest slate of inductees.

"This year’s class of GMA Gospel Music Hall of Fame inductees have all achieved great professional and personal success in many different areas of the music and entertainment industries,” stated Styll, “but each shares a common heritage of the Gospel’s powerful impact on their lives.”

The GMA Gospel Music Hall of Fame has been celebrating the contributions of Christian and gospel music artists for nearly four decades.

Among the more than 150 artists to have taken their place in the Hall of Fame are The Winans, Elvis Presley, Amy Grant, Andrae Crouch and Sandi Patty.

This year’s induction ceremony takes place on February 2 in Nashville.

Michael W Smith released his latest album, A New Hallelujah, last November to critical acclaim.

Dolly Parton has several gospel albums to her name and her Dollywood theme park in
Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, houses the Southern Gospel Music Museum and Hall of Fame.

Source

THE UNITED TOUR RETURNS THIS SPRING

2009-02-04T07:25:00.000-08:00

Michael W. Smith and Steven Curtis Chapman are happy to announce that they will be hitting the road for the second leg of their UNITED TOUR this Spring. The tour begins on March 28th in CHATTANOOGA, TN and then criss crosses the entire country for a total of 23 shows (18 shows are currently announced with 6 more coming soon).

This is a special evening of music and is THE concert of the year; bringing together the two biggest names in Christian music on one stage each night.

Tickets for most shows will be on-sale by Friday, January 30th with several starting their ticket presales within the next week (presales are open to Michael W. Smith's "FRIENDS ONLINE" Members Only. Members can go to the message board to read about how you can meet Michael W. backstage by attending a gathering in your city).

Three Concerts ALREADY have presales running - make sure you check the site often, you won't want to miss these events.

IS THE UNITED TOUR COMING TO A CITY NEAR YOU? Click here for dates! (remember there are still 6 more shows to be announced - we'll let you know when those are ready to go too)

Christian Music News Source

Michael W. Smith Performs with the Jonas Brothers at Ryman Auditorium

2009-01-28T11:43:00.000-08:00

Michael W. Smith Performs with the Jonas Brothers at Ryman Auditorium: Last Sunday night, Michael W. Smith joined the Jonas Brothers in a sold-out show at the historic Ryman Auditorium in Nashville. Michael W. Smith and the Jonas Brothers performed Smitty’s 1991 hit "Place in This World." Later that evening Michael performed another song with Steven Curtis Chapman, Phil Vassar, Vince Gill and the Jonas Brothers. “A lot of the people we’ll bring up tonight are idols of ours,” Nick Jonas told the crowd. Other performers included: Jordin Sparks, Martina McBride, Brad Paisley and Amy Grant with Tim McGraw and Faith Hill introducing the trio. “They’re talented—this is more than just a boy band,” said Michael W. Smith of the Jonas Brothers.

Christian Music News Source

Jonas Brothers & Michael W. Smith - Place In This World

2009-01-21T11:18:00.000-08:00

January 4th, 2009
Ryman Auditorium
Nashville, TN

Christian Music News Source

Michael W. Smith Gives SourceOneTV.com A Shout-Out!

2009-01-14T11:06:00.000-08:00

Christian Music News Source

Michael W. Smith Vlog Entry - Christmas 2008

2009-01-07T06:55:00.000-08:00

Smitty reflects on 2008, The coming year, AND his Christmas wish for everyone!

Christian Music News Source

Michael W. Smith brought Christmas spirit to the Alerus

2008-12-24T09:05:00.000-08:00

“You’re only as good as the people you surround yourself with,” Grammy-winning singer/songwriter Michael W. Smith told his audience Sunday night at the Alerus Center.

Indeed, Smith made good on that observation, bringing his “It’s A Wonderful Christmas” tour to Grand Forks and surrounding himself with great back-up vocalists, including featured singers Melinda Doolittle and George Huff, both from TV’s “American Idol.”

Also featured were Smith’s producer and collaborator David Hamilton, Smith’s fine traveling band AND the always impressive Greater Grand Forks Symphony Orchestra.

The crowd seemed almost more enthused with Doolittle’s performance, including her gospel and jazz songs, and Huff’s “O Holy Night” than by Smith himself. Doolittle’s voice seemed to have more depth and maturity than Smith’s.

Not that Smith wasn’t talented and inspiring in the songs he wrote, played and sang or the music he selected for the concert. As a Christian artist, he mixed the traditional Christian hymns and carols of Christmas with contemporary and secular tunes,

Smith’s show Sunday night included “Song For the King,” the song he called the “most passionate” from his 2007 “It’s a Wonderful Christmas” album, and a lush and gorgeous instrumental of “What Child is This.”

Smith also acknowledged the troubling times so many people are facing right now, by sharing his testimony — “Christ will never leave you or forget you,” he said — and then sang “Help is On The Way.”

Before the show, Smith said in a news release that he wanted everyone to leave his concert filled with the Christmas spirit. So it wasn’t surprising that the concert included a spirit-filled audience sing-a-long on some favorite traditional carols. I can’t speak for everyone at the Alerus Sunday night, but I’d say there was more than enough Christmas spirit to go around.

Just a couple more things:

n Too many singers, including Christian artists such as Smith, fall into that trap of singing “Christmas music” that doesn’t really have anything to do with Christmas. I’m talking about those songs where it sounds like someone fed a bunch of “Christmas-y” phrases into a computer, like “Christmas time is here,” “… something, something angels,” “ … something, something joy to the world,” and then pushed the “Output Christmas Song” button.

I have nothing against secular holiday music. Indeed, my personal Christmas music collection includes everything from “White Christmas” by Bing Crosby to “Blue Christmas” by Elvis. I just don’t like the music that can’t really decide what it is, and just ends up being insipid and boring.

n At a concert by a Christian artist, we expect to hear the word of God and testimony about God’s love and forgiveness. But I think we can do without the pitches for money, no matter how worth the cause that’s being promoted.

How many people were at the concert? The Alerus Center said it couldn’t disclose that information because it didn’t have permission from Smith’s agent to release it.

Christian Music News Source

Michael W. Smith will be Featured on the 700 Club

2008-12-03T15:17:00.000-08:00

Michael W. Smith will be Featured on the 700 Club, Monday, November 24: Multi-platinum and GRAMMY-winning artist Michael W. Smith, who recently released his 21st album A New Hallelujah (10/28), will be featured on the Christian Broadcast Network�s �700 Club�. The show will air Monday, November 24. The 700 Club is hosted by Pat Robertson and is a live television program that airs weekdays before a studio audience in Virginia Beach, VA. Please visit the following link for local 700 Club air times: http://www.cbn.com/700club/ShowInfo/Schedule/program_air_times.pdf.

Christian Music News Source

Michael W. Smith - I see you

2008-11-26T15:14:00.000-08:00

Musica do cantor Michael W. Smith
Slide by sam fagury

Chrisian Music News Source

Michael W. Smith

2008-11-11T10:25:00.000-08:00

United Tour Halloween

Christian Music News Source

MICHAEL W. SMITH RELEASES A NEW HALLELUJAH OCT. 28

2008-11-06T20:55:00.000-08:00

(NASHVILLE, Tenn.) October 27, 2008 – Recently honored by friends including Amy Grant, Jordin Sparks, Ricky Skaggs, Melinda Doolittle, Phil Stacey, Wynonna, Franklin Graham, Max Lucado and others at a tribute event at Nashville’s Schermerhorn Symphony Center on Oct. 12, Michael W. Smith is busy readying for the release of his 21st career album, A New Hallelujah, on Tuesday, Oct. 28.

The album, recorded live in Houston on June 20 before 12,000 people, has already received acclaim from media and fans alike, and the album’s first single, “A New Hallelujah” is currently in Top 15 at AC on the CRW chart and No. 17 on R & R’s Christian AC Monitored chart and just surpassed the 60 million cumulative impressions mark in only 11 weeks.

In addition, Smith’s co-bill tour with Steven Curtis Chapman “The United Tour” has sold out in more than 75 percent of the markets it’s visited since its launch on Oct. 9 in Columbus, Ohio.

Bob Thornton, Promotions Director at the award winning KXOJ in Tulsa, Ok. shares, “Hallelujah! I watched a sold out crowd sing along every word of A New Hallelujah and enjoy every moment of the United Tour. This was not the end of the book for these two great artists but the beginning of a great new chapter.”

In addition to the impact on the road and airwaves, Michael has seen incredible feedback on his short-form music video to “A New Hallelujah” which originally debuted on the Yahoo Music Channel’s Home-Page and Gospel Music Channel. The video, directed by Steve Gilreath, is currently viewable at www.reunionrecords.com.

Smith will be interviewed on Monday, Oct. 27 by radio outlets including Rick and Bubba’s morning show, Moody Broadcasting’s “The Morning Show with Mark Elfstrand,” and “Prime Time America,” USA Radio Network’s “Daybreak USA,” American Family Radio, AP Radio, Family Life and Focus on the Family. On Oct. 28, his official street day, he will perform “A New Hallelujah” live on the KLOVE Network as well as stations in New York, Tampa, Orlando, Minneapolis and Los Angeles. In addition, he will be the featured guest on Moody’s “Midday Connection.”

A New Hallelujah, Michael W. Smith’s newest record, and third worship album, was recorded live this June before 12,000 people in Houston, Texas. The record features The African Children’s Choir, a 250-voice choir, and a special guest appearance by 2008 GRAMMY Award-Winner, Israel Houghton.

Smith’s first worship album, simply titled Worship, released on September 11, 2001, and has sold more than a million-and-a half copies. It’s follow up Worship Again released September 19, 2002, and is nearing the 800,000 mark.

About Michael W. Smith
Michael W. Smith has amassed an impressive catalog of achievements. His 20 prior albums have garnered multiple honors including an American Music Award, 3 GRAMMY® Awards (from 13 nominations) and 42 Gospel Music Association Dove Awards, and 33 No. 1 radio hits. In addition, he holds 16 Gold and 5 Platinum albums and career sales approaching 15 million.

Over his 25-year career, Smith has used his platform as a leader and acclaimed entertainer to serve, teach, and lead offstage. Constantly giving back to the community, one of his current projects is Rocketown -- a nightclub for teens in his hometown of Nashville, Tenn. -- which serves as a safe place for young people to enjoy music and for artists to be discovered. He is married to Debbie Smith and they are the proud parents of five children. For up-to-date information on Michael W. Smith, please visit www.michaelwsmith.com or www.reunionrecords.com.

Christian Music News Source

Michael W. Smith

2008-11-03T10:22:00.000-08:00

Michael W. Smith Healing rain

2008-10-30T19:18:00.000-07:00

Christian Music News Source

Michael W. Smith greets his fans

2008-10-22T21:31:00.000-07:00

Contemporary Christian recording stars Michael W. Smith and Stephen Curtis Chapman shared the stage at Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium Saturday night, and their autographs now share space on Thurston Faulkner's guitar.

Faulkner, a Moore resident, was one of about 300 fans to walk through a rope line at Christian Supply on Saturday afternoon for a meet-and-greet with Smith. The guitar, which had already been signed by Chapman, is memorabilia for Samuel, a 2-year-old from Kazakhstan that Faulkner and his wife, Amber, adopted with help of a grant from Chapman.

Smith and Chapman came to Spartanburg as part of their United tour, on which they are touring together for the first time. Both veterans have new releases on the way.

Smith took the opportunity to play a video excerpt of a song from his newest and 21st album, "A New Hallelujah," and to answer questions from the audience, pose for pictures, chat and sign autographs.

"He was nice and very down to earth," Thurston Faulkner said. "For him to come and be personal with anyone who wanted to show up, it shows that he keeps in touch with real life."

Smith decided to make the rare store appearance after learning from recording executive Randy Davis that Christian Supply suffered an estimated $750,000 loss.

A former employee is accused of embezzling the money between Jan. 1, 2007, and Aug. 19. The loss nearly forced the store that's been in Spartanburg for more than five decades to close.

"I was blown away when he said he would come here," said owner Chuck Wallington, adding that Smith has an "incredible heart."

Conserving energy

Most singers try to talk as little as possible and save energy for the stage to be at their best when the bright lights shine. But Smith said he enjoyed the opportunity to meet fans.

"I've heard Celine Dion doesn't talk at all the day before a show, but I'm not that much of a diehard," Smith said after the event.

Smith said making the appearance "seemed to be the right thing to do." Although his album won't be released for about nine more days, the store

was able to pre-sell copies, and Davis rush-ordered a print of album jackets so Smith could sign them.

Davis said the event was a good way to help a business he's enjoyed working with, adding "(Wallington) is known throughout the industry as a top retailer and a top man."

Linda Temples and her daughter, Jordana Touchton, drove from Anderson to meet Smith and planned to attend the concert.

Temples said Touchton has taken her to concerts for 23 years.

"If it's within eight hours (by car), we're there," Touchton said.

Smith, 51, told the crowd the W. stands for Whitaker, an old family name, and his favorite song he's written is "All Is Well." He told a child that he wrote his first song when he was 5, and joked with the crowd that his music has since improved.

Smith said he keeps himself grounded by remembering, "We all have the capability of falling off a cliff," and poked fun at his celebrity status.

"Some people say, 'Oh you're Michael W. Smith. My mom and grandma are big fans of yours,' " Smith told the mixture of young and old fans.

Christian Music News Source

Steven Curtis Chapman and Michael W. Smith? 'Amen,' says audience in Birmingham

2008-10-22T21:30:00.000-07:00

Steven Curtis Chapman and Michael W. Smith were preaching to the choir Sunday night during a 7 p.m. show at the BJCC Concert Hall.

Contemporary Christian performances like this one are based on shared religious beliefs among the musicians and audience members. Devout prayer and earnest speechifying are much more than expected; they're a crucial part of the listening experience. Also, entertainers typically make fund-raising appeals for their favorite charities.

Evaluating such events can be tricky, when the basic idea is to let go of critical faculties and lose yourself in transcendent uplift -- to allow the heart, not the brain, to take over. If that doesn't happen, has the concert fallen short of its mission?

Moreover, Chapman and Smith are longtime superstars in the contemporary Christian genre, with substantial music catalogs, many radio hits and shelves filled with Dove Awards. Despite millions in sales, they regard their careers as ministries that are geared to helping the world.

Both men have pressed rock, folk and pop into the service of a higher power, spreading the Gospel with obvious success for a couple of decades.

On Sunday, even if secular ears failed to find excellence in some of the songs (if melodies seemed no more than pleasant or if lyrics lacked subtlety), Chapman and Smith certainly hit the mark with the majority.

The crowd at the BJCC offered a reverent and enthusiastic response to their joint playlist, which lasted about three hours and included "God is God," "Live Out Loud," "Miracle of the Moment," "Dive," "For the Sake of the Call," "There She Stands," "Friends," "Place in This World," "Above All" and "A New Hallelujah."

Touring together for the first time, the frontmen organized the show into two separate sets -- Chapman featured first, Smith highlighted second -- but made sure to include dual performances throughout.

The backing band, which ranged from five to seven members, featured Chapman's son, Caleb, 19, on guitar and Smith's son, Tyler, 20, on keyboards. Chapman's other son, Will Franklin, 17, took over the drum kit for a number or two, sitting in for band member Michael Olson.

Seeing Chapman's family here (including his wife, Mary Beth, and his eldest daughter, Emily, in the audience) was particularly poignant. As Chapman said from the stage, this tour comes during a time of mourning and healing for the seven-member clan.

The youngest Chapman, Maria Sue, 5, was killed in May when she was run over in the driveway of their home outside Nashville. Will Franklin was at the wheel of the SUV when it happened.

Only the most hard-hearted soul could fail to be moved when Chapman talked about the accident and its aftermath. Instead of ignoring the tragedy, he brought it up immediately, explaining that he was simultaneously broken and hopeful.

Many of his songs had acquired new meaning for him, Chapman said, and despite doubts and questions, he and his family were holding fast to their faith. In that spirit, he performed the song "Cinderella," written before Maria Sue's death and partly inspired by her.

More than anything else, such moments conveyed the basic message of religion as a source of strength and succor. For several reasons, contemporary Christian fans in Birmingham are bound to remember this concert for a long time.

Christian Music News Source

Michael w Smith - How To Say Goodbye

2008-10-21T16:44:00.000-07:00

Christian Music News Source

Christian hitmakers combine their talents

2008-10-16T14:47:00.000-07:00

Fans of Christian pop star Steven Curtis Chapman didn't have to wait long to find out how he and his family have been in the wake of personal tragedy.

Chapman, who lost his 5-year-old daughter in an accident earlier this year, put his loss at the center of his Saturday night set at the Roanoke Civic Center.

He and his fellow hitmaker, Michael W. Smith, opened their show with "Blessed Be Your Name," which Chapman described as "a truth that has been an anchor for my family and I" since Maria Chapman died in May after a car one of her brothers was driving struck her in the family's driveway.

"Lord, help us to believe this when we sing it," Chapman said before singing the lines, "You give and take away, but my heart will choose to say, blessed be your name."

Judging by the cheers from the crowd of 1,926, fans were glad to hear that Chapman's faith has stayed strong.

Not that it's been easy, he said. He had to make sure he still believed in the songs before he could take them in front of audiences, he said.

Chapman and Smith, both veterans of two decades in the Christian music business, are touring together for the first time. Each played a set of more than an hour and joined each other onstage. Chapman sang part of Smith's crossover hit, "Place in this World," while Smith sang Chapman's "The Great Adventure." They also joked about the mullet haircuts they sported in the late 1980s.

The music was mostly easy listening and not particularly adventurous, but audience members loved it, often raising one or both hands toward the sky.

Smith, introducing his song "This is Your Time," told the tale of Cassie Bernall, one of the victims of the April 1999 shootings at Columbine High School in Littleton, Colo. One of the two shooters asked Bernall if she believed in God, Smith said -- Bernall said yes, "and that kid pulled the trigger." But the Rocky Mountain News and other sources have reported that Bernall was not involved such an exchange.

Either way, such lyrics as "It was a test we could all hope to pass, but none of us would want to take," were apt for a crowd that obviously shared the faith of Smith and Chapman.

The civic center used a curtain and tarps to reduce capacity to about 2,000, and empty seats remained.

Christian Music News Source

Michael W. Smith, Steven Curtis Chapman Prepare to Kick Off Historic Tour

2008-10-16T14:46:00.000-07:00

Award-winning and multi-Platinum-selling artists Michael W. Smith and Steven Curtis Chapman will kick off their historic joint tour Thursday with plans to hit 19 cities through early November.

Joining forces together for the first time, Chapman and Smith will start off their month-long “United Tour” in Columbus, Ohio, and travel throughout the east coast before concluding in St. Augustine, Fla., on Nov. 8.

The unique tour will showcase two of Christian Music’s most recognized and beloved artists, who together have garnered a staggering eight Grammy awards, 96 Dove Awards, 77 No. 1 singles and more than 30 Gold and Platinum albums. It also marks the first tour for Chapman since his family’s loss of their five-year-old daughter, Maria.

“What new world order is this!?!? Michael W Smith and SCC on stage doing songs together? Woo. Well wow and wow,” exclaimed Jim Houser, Chapman’s manager, in his weblog Wednesday as the two Christian music legends rehearsed.

On Tuesday, Houser estimated that as many as seven tour stops have been sold out so far.

“As I like to say... we are pushing the tour out the door,” he wrote.

The idea for the joint tour reportedly came shortly after Chapman and Smith spent time together in the United Kingdom working on the “Compassionart project,” which brought more than 10 of Christian Music’s most revered singers, songwriters and worship leaders together to write and record a collection of songs for charity.

According to Compassionart, Smith said the gathering was “one of the most significant weeks of [his] life.”

Benefiting from the Christian music stars’ upcoming tour will be Smith’s long-time ministry partner, Compassion International, and Chapman’s adoption ministry, Shaohannah’s Hope.

Throughout the tour, both artists will perform music from their current and upcoming albums – Chapman’s This Moment and Smith’s A New Hallelujah.

Tour Dates and Locations:

October 9th Columbus, OH Palace Theatre
October 10th Cincinnacti, OH Aronoff Center
October 11th Roanoke, VA PAC
October 14th Mc Murray, PA South Hills Bible Church
October 16th Myrtle Beach, SC Beach Church
October 17th Atlanta, GA Cobb Energy PAC
October 18th Spartanburg, SC Spartanburg Memorial Aud
October 19th Birmingham, AL BJCC Concert Hall
October 23rd Tulsa, OK Spirit Bank Arena
October 24th Omaha, NE Holland PAC
October 25th Waukegan, IL Genesee Theatre
October 26th Merrilville, IN Star Plaza Theatre
October 29th Lowell, MA Memorial Auditorium
October 30th Rochester, NY Auditorium Theatre
October 31st Bethesda, MD Strathmore Music Center
November 1st Alabany, NY Palace Theatre
November 5th Ft. Lauderdale, FL Broward Center
November 7th Clearwater, FL Ruth Eckerd Hall
November 8th St. Augustine, FL Amphitheatre

Christian Music News Source

Michael W. Smith - It's a Wonderful Christmas (Reunion/Provident)

2008-09-19T19:26:00.000-07:00

It's not only a wonderful Christmas, but also Michael W. Smith's 20th album in an illustrious 25-year career. His third holiday project stylistically falls somewhere between 1989's Christmas and 1998's Christmastime (every 9 years, eh?), with a little bit of his 2000 instrumental project Freedom thrown in. The sweeping orchestrations are back, though more schmaltzy with the pop feel of a film soundtrack—the whimsical title cut is a dead ringer for John Williams' contributions to the Harry Potter films. The instrumentation is rich, featuring four choirs and a 65-piece orchestra recorded at London's Abbey Road studios. Nearly half the disc is instrumental, some more Christmas sounding than others—"Song for a King" is a deeply expressive piece for piano and violin, but "A Highland Carol" seems more an excuse to play with bagpipes. The vocal pieces are generally strong (celebratory "Christmas Angels," the mini Advent epic "The Promise"), but Smitty's best is oddly the one he doesn't sing on, the choir-and-orchestra anthem "Sing Noel, Sing Hallelujah." As a whole, Wonderful Christmas is a little too familiar and not as inventive as Christmas was, but the music is crafted with more than enough originality and excellence to make it worthwhile.—Breimeier....

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Michael W. Smith - Stand (Reunion)

2008-09-19T19:24:00.000-07:00

Sounds like … AC pop ballads, most of it worship-oriented, reminiscent of Mark Schultz, Chris Tomlin, and Richard Marx, with some flashes of Brit rock inspired by Coldplay and Leeland.

At a glance … an abundance of slow, underdeveloped, repetitive songs along with some poor track sequencing make Stand the first true misfire among Michael W. Smith's string of hit albums.

For nearly 25 years, Michael W. Smith has reigned supreme with a string of hook-laden pop albums, not to mention a charming boy-next-door personality that's endeared him to multiple generations—hard to believe the youthful singer/songwriter is already approaching 50! His career took something of a detour after 1999's This Is Your Time, successfully dabbling with instrumental scoring and live worship for a period. Healing Rain (2004) marked his return to pop with middling results, though it offered enough to satisfy patient fans, and singles from outside projects ("Signs," "All in the Serve") demonstrated Smitty could still recapture his trademark programmed pop/rock style.

Now along comes Stand, Smith's 19th album, and I'm left with the chorus from a John Mayer song echoing in my head: "Something's missing, and I don't know what it is." Oh, I have my guesses, but if you had told me ten years ago there would come a day where I'd find a Smitty album that I cared for less than Michael W. Smith 2, I'd have called you crazy. But at least the infamous "argyle album" had more personality and creativity.

Part of the problem is that Stand can't decide whether it's pop or worship—not that it can't be both, but this album never finds the right balance. The supposed underlying theme is an extension of Smith's 1997 hit "Live the Life," making a stand for faith beyond church on Sunday. This creates an opportunity for songs of social consciousness and practical faith in action, and there are a few. The sing-along ballad "Open Arms" challenges the church to carry love beyond its walls, radio single "Come to the Cross" proclaims Christ's open invitation to redemption, and "In Silence" effectively notes, "Sometimes we're loudest when the doors are shut and no one can see our face/But it seems we're quiet when someone needs a touch of heaven's grace."

That's as deep as the message goes, however. The middle chunk of Stand could well be tagged as Smitty's third worship project, starting with "Be Lifted High" before diving into a short, string-enhanced arrangement of "Oh Lord, You're Beautiful" that fortunately distinguishes itself from Keith Green's original with a darker reflective tone. The best of the bunch is "Grace," a quiet and transparent confessional co-written with Martin Smith (Delirious)—"All I have is all from You/And all I want is all of You." But that's followed by a brief cover of the closing worship chorus from "The Stand" by Hillsong United, which has the same numbing effect as Rich Mullins' "Awesome God" repeated without the verses, before concluding with the worshipful build of "Come See."....

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Michael W. Smith - Healing Rain (Reunion)

2008-09-19T19:20:00.000-07:00

Sounds like … Michael W. Smith's familiar approach to pop/rock, drawing on the sounds of Coldplay, Sting, Nik Kershaw, Genesis, and a host of other tunesmiths from the '80s and '90s.

At a glance … Healing Rain is an enjoyable album of pop songs that plays too safe, failing to capitalize on Smitty's full musical potential.

It's not as if Michael W. Smith has been lying low; releasing a new album every year since 1998, he's busier than most recording artists. But the much-anticipated Healing Rain is his first pop album since dabbling with worship and instrumental music for the last five years. Mostly self-produced with some tracks helmed by Matt Bronleewe (Chris Tomlin, Rebecca St. James) and Sam Ashworth (Taylor Sorensen), the record is largely focused on themes of restoration, teaming Smith with writing partners both old (Wayne Kirkpatrick, Wes King) and new (Martin Smith of Delirious, Sorensen, and even classic pop songwriter Dan Hill).

Expectations are high for this album, but don't look for a radical departure. You might say that Smitty has wisely chosen to bridge the gap between his successful forays into worship music and his pop legacy. Three of the album's stronger tracks feature the lyricism of Delirious' Smith, giving songs like "Here I Am" a decidedly more vertical focus: "Here I come to Your threshing floor where the angels fear to tread/I'm waiting here for the King of love and to hold the hands that bled." Meshing Smith's melodic pop/rock with the British style of Coldplay and Delirious, this one's bound to be the follow-up single to the successful title track, a soaring and restorative take on familiar Smith balladry like "There She Stands" and "Everybody Free." There's also "All I Want," a closing atmospheric prayer that's somewhat dark sounding, yet strangely comforting.

Smitty has been quoted as saying he thinks people might be surprised by some of the new album. Yes, if by "surprise" he means underwhelm. Healing Rain is not a benchmark album like … well, like most of the albums this major talent has released between 1986-1998. Take "Human Spark," written as a response to 9/11, questioning the foolishness of man. Slightly reminiscent of Sting's "Fields of Gold," the song is static, surprisingly lacking spark for such a powerful subject. The same is true of "We Can't Wait Any Longer," a wake-up call to the AIDS crisis in Africa. Yet even featuring the Ugandan Children's Choir pleading for their lives, it just doesn't have enough gravity or punch to it, sounding like a stale hybrid of too many past songs by Smith.

The biggest drawback is the album relies too heavily on conventional ballads, and not really the big jaw-dropping kind that Smith is known for. Written with Sorensen as a response to The Passion of The Christ, "I Am Love" has an interesting lyric, good intensity, and a slight alternative edge to Smith's sound, but it's plodding and not memorable. "Eagles Fly" is bluesy-yet-encouraging, blending a wide variety of sounds (reggae, R&B, world, synth-pop), and still it feels like a routine demo. There's also a splendid cover of Simon & Garfunkel's "Bridge Over Troubled Water" that does fit the album thematically. Smitty does it justice, nailing the performance and production while comfortably adapting it to his own catalog of sweeping ballads, but is it interesting or inventive? Nah....

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Michael W. Smith - The Second Decade (1993-2003) (Reunion)

2008-09-19T19:19:00.000-07:00

Sounds like … textbook Smitty rockers, ballads, worship cuts and an instrumental culled from the last ten years, plus two new potential pop hits.

At a glance … an enjoyable career retrospective from one of contemporary Christian music's finest artists.

He's a singer, songwriter, composer, worship leader, father, and even a pastor. His impact after 20 years in music is immeasurable. Yet after achieving just about every possible career accolade (from Grammys to Doves to Presidential props), Michael W. Smith has kept his feet on the ground. "When I look back over 20 years, I see faces," he writes in the liner notes of The Second Decade (1993-2003). "When I reflect on the faces I see, it gives me resolve to press on—to do more for others, to be better at what I do, and to finish well." Though he could have easily rested on the laurels of classics like "Friends," Secret Ambition," "Place in this World," and "I Will Be Here For You," he's given us another decade of excellence—much of it evident on this brand-new collection. Despite missing a few suitable songs, the project continues in the memory-preserving tradition of The First Decade, released in 1993.

The Second Decade begins on a new note with the brilliantly produced lead single "Signs," a song co-written with Michael's teenage son Ryan and Wes King. Over engaging rhythms, stirring percussion, and an up-tempo piano arrangement, Smith sings of the need to stay on track in our spiritual walks: "Open your eyes/Look at the signs/Never look back at yesterday/Keep your gaze steady on the narrow way." The briskly paced "Missing Person" and "Cry For Love" follow, providing additional examples of exceptional production and meaningful lyrics. The emotional ballad "This is Your Time," its swelling orchestrations a tribute to the Columbine High School victims, further accentuates Smith's songwriting genius.

Other ballads covering Smith's wide-ranging themes include the worshipful "Above All," the faith-building "Never Been Unloved," and the sweet "Straight to the Heart." Such variety is further revealed on "I'll Lead You Home," a remix of "Breakdown," and the Beatle-esque witnessing tool "Live the Life." The project closes with two cuts showcasing Smith's piano skills—the instrumental "Freedom" and the string-enriched new cut "Raging Sea." Though "Raging Sea" doesn't cover any uncharted territory (sounding similar to his Titanic-inspired "In My Arms Again"), it's solidly produced with great radio potential.

The Second Decade is enjoyable overall, but including some other songs would've made it even better. Except for the title track, 1999's This Is Your Time is underrepresented; those not making the cut included "Worth It All," "I Will Be Your Friend," and "I Still Have the Dream." From his worship material, it's puzzling why the live "You Are Holy (Prince of Peace)" made the cut, especially when it isn't a Smith original. Granted, nor is "Above All," but at least he's responsible for making it so well-known. Perhaps the studio renditions of that song and/or "Lord Have Mercy" (featuring Amy Grant) would have better fit the album's continuity, rather than interrupting the flow with a live performance....

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Michael W. Smith - Worship Again (Reunion)

2008-09-19T19:14:00.000-07:00

Sounds like … not too surprisingly, a lot like Michael's previous best-selling Worship album..

At a Glance … what is surprising about Worship Again is that it's generally as good as Worship, and in many ways even better.

Let's start off with a clarification - I did not dislike Michael W. Smith's Worship album. It is undeniably an extremely well-made live recording of praise and worship, highlighted by lush arrangements, stirring worship atmosphere, and a handful of the best praise songs ever written. The platinum-selling Worship exposed these songs to thousands of listeners who weren't acquainted with such powerful expressions of praise as "Breathe," "The Heart of Worship," and "Open the Eyes of My Heart." It also helped a song called "Above All" by Paul Baloche and Lenny LeBlanc become as much a worship standard as those previously mentioned. The fact that Worship was released on September 11, 2001 can't be coincidental either, as it's been a source of comfort for those who have needed reminders that God is sovereign and loving. Indeed, Worship was the fastest-selling Christian album of 2001 and one of Michael's greatest successes as an artist – it earned Paul and Lenny a 2002 Dove Award for Best Inspirational Song, a Best Praise & Worship Album award, and a Best Artist Award for Michael. I'm as happy as anyone that Worship exceeded everyone's expectations and brought people closer to the Lord.

I would still surmise, however, that most people initially purchased Worship as fans of Michael's music, not as people hungry for worship music (which we're in no short supply of these days). Nevertheless, word of mouth about Worship spread and catapulted the album's success. My only gripe with the album is that it's not a particularly innovative or creative worship experience; it features several songs that have been performed just as well (if not better) on many other worship albums. So I have to confess I first listened to Worship Again with much skepticism. The artless title smacks of commercialism, spawning jokes of what Michael might name his next twenty worship projects (More Worship? Worship 3: Worship Returns?). The lack of creativity also extends to the album design, which features the exact same cover as Worship except for the color scheme; the back cover also looks the same as Worship, with the same photo of Michael at the piano with an up-raised hand. I was all set to review Worship Again like Worship … again. To my surprise, that's only half accurate. Michael and company have improved upon the successful formula of the Worship album. Worship Again does everything as well as the last album while improving on the few areas it fell short.

Worship was almost completely comprised of familiar songs we've heard before on other popular worship albums. In contrast, I was familiar with only half of the 12 live cuts on Worship Again, despite all the worship music I listen to. Worship only featured one original song by Smitty, the studio track "Purified," which was written with his wife Debbie. This time, Michael was responsible for five new songs on the album, including "You Are the Lord" (with Debbie's assistance) and "I Can Hear Your Voice" (written with Debbie and their daughter Whitney). Despite a strong opening call to worship, the previous album didn't end with a sense of finality, trailing off into the closing two studio tracks. Worship Again begins and ends like a true worship concert experience before segueing into three studio tracks. As cool as it was to have a guest choir of established Christian artists on Worship, it was also a little distracting since some of the voices stuck out prominently when they were improvising. It's not surprising because of the logistics that Worship Again doesn't feature a similar celebrity choir, but rather an equally talented group of background singers. Some may recognize Sarah McIntosh (Chasing Furies) in a duet with Michael on "Lord Have Mercy," which features Amy Grant instead on the studio version of the song (the album's first single).

As for the songs themselves, the selection is creative and original, but more importantly they're excellent expressions of contemporary worship. Worship arguably featured the better songs (hence why they're so well known), but don't think for a minute there's less to be appreciated here by worshippers and worship leaders alike. Besides, if you were introduced to worship through Michael's album, you're not going to know the difference. Steve Merkel's stunning "Lord Have Mercy" stands out in particular, and is equally enjoyable as a liturgical expression of confession and a contemporary inspirational song of worship. Traditionalist worshippers will also appreciate the hymn-like "Ancient Words," written by Lynn DeShazo. The Smith-family-penned "I Can Hear You" is highlighted by a lush orchestral pop arrangement and a richly romantic melody that sounds as if it came from Michael's Freedom album. Michael and Debbie's "You Are the Lord" is a pleasant Celtic-flavored anthem similar to their previous collaboration, "Great Is the Lord," as well as Chris Tomlin's "Famous One." Speaking of which, Michael does a fine rendition of Chris' "The Wonderful Cross," which is a contemporary reworking of the old him "When I Survey the Wondrous Cross." You're probably familiar with Reuben Morgan's "I Give You My Heart" from Hillsong Worship (Darlene Zschech) and Smitty's familiar arrangement of Rich Mullins' "I See You" from the 1-998 Exodus worship project....

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Michael W. Smith - Worship

2008-09-19T19:10:00.000-07:00

Sounds like … a live contemporary worship service, similar to albums through Vineyard and Integrity, only led by Michael W. Smith and an all-star choir.

At a Glance … it's a beautifully produced and performed worship album, but we expected something more creative and original, considering the songwriting talent of the man behind the music.

Russ: As one of the strongest musical presences in Christian music for nearly twenty years, Michael W. Smith hardly needs any introduction here. His latest album, simply titled Worship, marks his first worship project in all that time. Considering Michael's impact on worship music over the course of his career and the recent surge in worship projects over the last few years, both Andy and I felt we should try something different with this album review by presenting a dialogue/dual review—since we're both avid fans, it was either this or arm-wrestling over who got to review this much-anticipated release. So without further ado, Andy, how about giving some background info on this project?

Andy: Well, Russ, Worship is a live recording of 11 popular praise songs, plus 2 studio cuts at the end. The live performance took place on June 1 at the Carpenter's Home Church in Lakeland, Florida, with over 9,000 people in attendance. In addition to Smitty and his band, several artists attended the worship event, many of whom were part of an all-star backing choir, including Amy Grant, Out of Eden, Cindy Morgan, Greg Long, Chris Rice, Ginny Owens, Phillips, Craig, and Dean, Erin O'Donnell, Mark Schultz, Darwin Hobbs, Shawn Groves, and Nathan Walters and Jason Perry of Plus One.

Russ: And of course, Michael served as the worship leader from the piano. It should be noted that Michael has been sporadically leading worship throughout his career, but he's been more actively involved with it now that he's the worship leader at New River Fellowship, a church he recently helped start near his home in Nashville. As I mentioned earlier, Andy and I are both big fans of Michael's past work, from Project to Freedom, so keep that bias in mind. What did you think of the recording, Andy?

Andy: You just can't expect anything less than the best when it comes to a live musical performance by Michael W. Smith. As is true at any Smitty concert, he has a superb backing band, and of course for this album he's got the all-star choir to boot. As always, he really puts his heart into the experience, though I think he puts even more into this because of his passion for worship. Could you hear that too?

Russ: I don't know if I can say he's more passionate here because he's always so good at connecting with the audience in his concerts, regardless of the setting and whether or not he's singing worship songs. I was also impressed with the quality of the recording and the musicianship. The band is very professional, and though there are plenty of instrumental solos, they never overwhelm the listener and the sense of worship. Michael's piano stands out, of course, the guitars are generally soft and acoustic, and there's some good percussion to complement the drums. Probably the most ear-catching element of the band's sound is the violin, which often solos during the transitions between songs. Though it makes the sound a little reminiscent of a Yanni concert, it still lends the recording a more beautiful and different sound than average. How about the song selection?

Andy: Michael's said he's committed to picking the finest worship songs, and he definitely selected some of the most beloved ones for the new album. He includes a few classics, such as "Awesome God" and "Open the Eyes of My Heart," and gives them a Smitty twist, as well as some of the newer standards such as "The Heart of Worship" and "Forever." Familiar favorites also include "Agnus Dei," written by Smith, and "Draw Me Close," which was made famous by The Katinas on the Exodus project. Smith and company bring a breath of fresh air to these favorites, and having a whole host of voices in the background lifting up the lyrics proves to be particularly moving.

Russ: I've got to say that Michael has indeed picked a lot of my favorites. There's not a whole lot to critique in terms of performance or song selection, though I wish they did more with "Awesome God" other than repeat the chorus for four and a half minutes. Michael's performed the whole song before, so he could have shortened this and added another song from the concert. The live portion also ends rather abruptly. Michael's daughters Emily and Anna open the album with a Psalm reading (an Introit), but on the other end, the project stops abruptly and segues into the two studio tracks without so much as a benediction or a "Good night and God bless." I also wish the album wasn't so ballad heavy, which makes the recording feel a little too adult contemporary. The only up-tempo songs are "Forever" and "Open the Eyes of My Heart." Of course the slow worshipful ballads are more intimate and powerful sounding, but there could have been a little more balance.

Andy: In addition to all those well-known songs, there are two new ones on Worship. First there's the Lenny LeBlanc and Paul Baloche penned "Above All," which appears twice on the album, as a live track and a studio track. I think the studio version wins out with a glossy and crisp radio-friendly sound. The only other studio recording is "Purified," a pleasant adult contemporary song Michael co-wrote with his wife, Debbie. Both of the studio tracks seem destined to make huge waves on radio.

Russ: I thought "Purified" was pretty good, but "Above All" really impressed me (especially the studio version). To me, that song seems as powerful and catchy as "Shout to the Lord." I appreciate that it praises God with poetic lyrics that set it apart from so many other worship songs today that seem to say nothing new or original. Andy just mentioned something that surprised me, though—Michael didn't write it! Aside from "Purified," there's nothing new from Michael on this album. Here's a guy who's well known and respected for writing some of today's most beloved worship songs: "Thy Word," "How Majestic Is Your Name," "Great Is the Lord," and the aforementioned "Agnus Dei." Why the lack of originality?

Andy: I wondered the same thing too. According to Michael, this record is meant to chronicle the songs he feels the strongest connection to, the tunes he likes to sing in his spare time. Although I can understand his reasoning, I still can't imagine why he didn't include more original material. His songwriting skills are unrivaled in my opinion, and he's written so many timeless standards, including the ones you mentioned. I would venture to say that had Smith included his classic formula for writing great music, this project would be even more appealing.

Russ: I agree, and this is where Worship is a disappointment to me. It's like "Michael W. Smith Sings His Favorite Worship Songs," and I don't think it's the worship album fans were hoping for from him. His previous worship project Exodus was a much more creative expression of worship, even though he didn't really write original material for that album either—as the album's producer, he gave the songs a very different sound than what was typical at that time. I would submit that Exodus is one of the most important worship albums ever, and that it was one of the catalysts that brought worship music back into the spotlight in recent years. Worship, on the other hand, seems like just another live worship recording along the lines of what you'd expect from Integrity Music and Vineyard. I don't want to belittle the worship experience of this or any other recording, but you have to ask yourself what's special about the album to make you buy it, and I think we all know the answer. People aren't going to buy this because it's a powerful expression of live worship—we have thousands of such albums available today. People will buy this because it's from Michael W. Smith … and it happens to be a worship album.

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Michael W. Smith - Freedom

2008-09-19T19:08:00.000-07:00

It's been seven years since one of my favorite artists, Billy Joel, has recorded an album with all new material. He's since retired from popular music in order to focus on composing classical music. I'm eagerly awaiting that classical music album, but it's been four years since his announcement, and still nothing new. Now focus on fellow piano man Michael W. Smith. Though he's considered doing an instrumental album for years, he did not publicly announce a project until earlier this year. But at least Smitty makes an announcement and BAM!, we see results. Granted, this is not classical music but instrumental soundtrack music, so it's arguably a little less complicated. Freedomis, nevertheless, a well made project that indicates a future second-career in movie soundtracks for Michael W. Smith.

Let me first address the critical issues. Some people are going to criticize Michael's latest project for not being a "Christian album." I hope I'm wrong about that, but the lack of lyrical content and the presence of music inspired by the Civil War probably will arouse skeptics. I, however, consider the project to be "God-inspired," and would refer people to Bob Briner's book Roaring Lambs for further thoughts on the matter. Then there are some people who consider Michael's music overly schmaltzy (and at times it can be). As a fan, I consider a lot of the music on Freedomhis "schmaltziest" yet, so Smitty's critics be warned. For those who enjoy Michael's music or instrumental movie soundtracks, they're really going to like this album. Freedom is almost like a professional demo, showing off a variety of styles of which Michael is capable.

There's a surprising cohesiveness to the first seven or eight tracks, because they share a cinematic feel (with a military and Celtic flair). Smitty's composing style is most reminiscent of works by James Newton Howard and James Horner, but it's not quite as memorable and grandiose as John Williams (though it comes close). The primary musical theme of the album is "Freedom," a piece inspired by a Civil War battle in Franklin, Tennessee, which sounds like something straight out of films like The Rockor The Patriot (or maybe even City Slickers). It's a beautiful, distinctly American melody that appears throughout the project. Another highlight is "Hibernia," a rollicking Irish-flavored piece featuring a big orchestra and lots of percussion. There are several beautiful piano pieces too, two of them ("Carol Ann" and "Prayer for Taylor") were written in tribute to friends who passed away in the last year.....

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Michael W. Smith - THIS IS YOUR TIME (1999)

2008-09-19T19:06:00.000-07:00

Inspired by the tragedy of the Columbine High School shooting and the memory of Cassie Bernall, Christian pop recording artist Michael W. Smith sat down with other major names in the Christian music industry and began writing songs. His efforts resulted in this newest project, This Is Your Time. Working with artists such as Cindy Morgan, Wes King, Dan Haseltine (Jars of Clay), Ginny Owens, and Chris Rice, this latest album contains some of Smith's best work yet. Other Christian artists singing back-up vocals include John Elefante, Angela Cruz, Natalie Grant, Nik Kershaw, Darwin Hobbs, and Chris Rodriguez. The album is chock full of Smitty's own early 90s style, with a few noticeable differences. One such difference is that one of Michael's co-writers is his own wife, Deborah D. Smith, and two of the tracks on the CD, "Hey You, It's Me" and "I'm Gone" are written especially for her. These fill the love song category on the project, but differ from previous works of Smith in the fact that both are rhythmic, upbeat, pop tunes. Smith also wrote two songs his daughters, Anna and Whitney, who join their dad singing background vocals for the album's title cut. The songs, "She Walks With Me" and the appropriately titled "Anna", deal with the mixed feelings Smith has watching his children grow up: love, sadness, and joy. The opening and closing tracks are instrumentals; "Rince De (God's Dance)" is a lively tune showered with flutes, bagpipes, and a wide assortment of other such wind instruments, while the reprise of "This Is Your Time" showcases Michael's incredible talents as a pianist. "Worth It All" is another high octane pop cut co-written by Smitty's wife that says following God's call, even if it means giving up everything, is worth the price. Two of the slower, more moving tunes on the CD are "I Will Be Your Friend", reminiscent of MWS's "Friends", and "This Is Your Time", the title cut of the album and also the first radio single. Both songs were inspired by the students of Columbine High School and are positive, uplifting, and encouraging. They are sure to become popular songs for high school graduations in the upcoming year. Meanwhile, "I Will Carry You" is a song about standing in the gap for others and sounds like a play off of Kirk Franklin's "Lean On Me." ....

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Michael W. Smith - CHRISTMASTIME (1998)

2008-09-19T19:04:00.000-07:00

When I first heard of Smitty's Christmastime, his second to date, I thought "Yes, he's finally going to do a Christmas album right." What was my problem with his 1989 Christmas? CCM radio listeners know and love "No Eye Has Seen" (an Amy Grant duet), the boychoir solo "All is Well" (reportedly Smitty's favorite of his own music) and the dominant pop cut "Gloria." Several questions haunt any listener with an ear for music (intense Smitty fans: please take no offense—the truth hurts): Why does the choir have as much volume as Michael on so many tracks? Why pound the Latin phrase "Lux Venit" when it means nothing to anyone? And, above all, why sing through your nose? An enjoyable listening experience this surely isn't. Still, the Smith instrumental work is unmatched, especially the stirring originals "Memoirs" and "First Snowfall." So on with Christmastime. Does he do it right this time around? In many ways, yes. Gone is the constant drone of a church choir, replaced by a slicker, well-produced Hollywood Cathedral Church Choir, the same one on Bryan Duncan's forever classic album Christmas is Jesus. On Christmastime, many new, passionate piano instrumentals brighten the overall feel of the record, from the tender "Hope of Israel" to the more power-injected "O Christmas Tree," a duet with Phil Keaggy providing guitar. The sweet sound of Smitty's eight year-old daughter Anna duals with the musical backdrop of enchanting choir and strings in the "Manger Medley." This and "Sing We Now of Christmas (Medley)" both impressed me with their obvious sincerity and beautiful instrumentation....

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Michael W. Smith - Live The Life, Compact Disc [CD]

2008-09-19T19:00:00.000-07:00

Reviewed by Christina Patterson (Edmonton, Ab,), September 22, 2007
If I could own only one Christian CD , this would be it. This is the type of cd that speaks to your heart without being heavily saturated with "God Loves You" and "God is almighty". Yes it's still there but light and easy to listen to.

Reviewed by Tina Sedlmayer (Gold Coast Australia), February 23, 2003
This is a great cd. Some very inspiring songs on this cd.

Reviewed by Jason Love (Painesville, Oh), October 21, 2002
I agree with everybody's opinion, this CD is one of Michael's best work; he is my fave male musician of all time. It's refreshing to hear somebody make a CD without using profanity or violence. Smitty Rules!!!

Reviewed by Chris (IL), April 17, 2002
This is Michael's best work!!!!(besides Worship of course) The lyrics are awesome and the music is too!!! You can really connect to God through the songs. Michael ROCKS!!!!

Reviewed by Leah (USA), April 08, 2002
I just LOVE this CD (and all the rest too)!! Live The Life really challenged me to live like God wants me to. After all, all non-Christians see God through us. If they see Christians acting the same way as themselves why bother becoming a Christian?? So this song really challenged ME to start "practicing what I'm preaching". And the first time I heard Hellow, Good-bye and In My Arms Again I started crying. And I also love Never Been Unloved cause it reminds me that no matter what I do God'll ALWAYS love me. Well I could tell you stories about how each song has affected me but I guess I'll stop there. (have you figured out who my favorite singer is?? LOL)

Reviewed by V. Young (AZ), November 01, 2001
WOW!! I just love this CD. My favorite on this is Hello, Goodbye. My sister e-mailed me this song from a web site relating to September 11. Great song. www.bluemaxrc.com/tribute/2/index.htm.

Reviewed by Kate (Mass), October 06, 2001
This cd is really awesome there's not one song on here that I don't like! I love the songs Missing Person, Love me Good, Live the Life,(no I'm not going to name them all)I Believe in you know, Let me show you the way, and Know Your Name. Yeah, okay I love them all. There is not one song that Smittys written that I dislike. This cd is definitely one of his best and one of my favorites. Michael W. Smith is the best artist there is!!!!!! This cd is a must have to anyone who likes his music (and anyone who doesn't although they have got to be crazy not to like his music)Smittys the best!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Reviewed by Chelsea (GA), July 17, 2001
Okay first of all I want to say that Michael W Smith is truly AMAZING and he's by a very very long shot my favorite artist!! I love this cd and I think it is very powerful. Missing Person is catchy, Love Me Good and Live The Life and Never Been Unloved have great lyrics, I love the music to Don't Give Up!, Let Me SHow You The Way is one of my favorite songs, I know Your Name and Matter Of Time have great lyrics, In My Arms Again and Hello, Goodbye are super songs and very powerful, and I love ALL of Michael's instrumentals but Song For Rich is one of his best!! This is a great cd and if you're thinking of buying it than STOP THINKING AND DO IT!!! This is a must-have cd! Michael, you've done a wonderful, amazing, super job and I can't wait for the next cd!!! This cd is a 10/5!!!...

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Michael W. Smith - I'll Lead You Home, Compact Disc [CD]

2008-09-19T18:57:00.000-07:00

Reviewed by Ben T. Hughes (Norfolk, Va), July 13, 2005
My 3rd favorite album of ALL TIME! Just unbelievable how the songs get you moving so fast into praising God....My favorites are "Cry For Love", "BreakDown", and "Someday"-which is the coolest song I've ever heard! Never heard anything since that throws Christian message to such a driving theme (cept maybe "I'm Gonna Sing" by the GVB)....No Christian should be without!

Reviewed by Tina Sedlmayer (Australia), September 07, 2002
A great Cd as usual. Great songs

Reviewed by Arlene (New Bedford, Ma.), May 02, 2002
This was the first CD I had of Michaels and loved it the very first time I heard it. He is a great artist and a wonderful Christian and his music shows this. His newest album Worship is even better and for those who love Michael Smith I recommend it highly.

Reviewed by Bobby Bob (Standish ME), April 01, 2002
I like this CD!!!!, its a great CD and definitely one you should get!!!!!!!!!!!!!!. Its one of the best CDs that Michael has. No one should be without this CD.

Reviewed by Kate (Mass), October 06, 2001
This is one of my favorite cds. I love the songs Staight to the Heart, I'll be Around, and I'll Lead You Home. I never don't feel like listening to this cd and it is definitely worth the buy! Smitty is the best artist by far- All of his music is awesome!!

Reviewed by Hannah (Hopkinton MA), September 22, 2001
Hey I can't believe no one has reviewed this. I mean....this CD won a Grammy! Wow so I'll Lead Yu Home is not my favorite MWS CD. But it is none-the-less awesome! In fact my favorite MWS song of all time (ok realize I am 14 but have all but 3 of their CD's. That means 11!) is on this. It is called I'll Be Around and if you get this album ONLY for that song it will be so worth it. But all in all this is a great one! If you don't have it - you should get it!....

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Michael W. Smith - First Decade, Compact Disc [CD]

2008-09-19T18:54:00.000-07:00

Reviewed by Matthew Rowell (Owosso, MI), September 21, 2007
This CD is very inspiration and has some good messages within the songs. Micheal W. Smith is a great inspiration to a lot of young people. I first heard him while in high school and still listen to him 17 years later.

Reviewed by Theresa Lazlo (Lewis Center, Ohio), June 19, 2005
I have loved that song Friends for many many years. I tell everyone this is my funeral song. My son will be calling you to sing this song at my funeral!!! God Bless you MWS

Reviewed by Jason (Painesville, OH), May 03, 2002
I absolutely love this CD, this by far is one of his best. My favorites are: Place in this world, Kentucky Rose, and Pray for Me. Smitty you Rule!!!! God Bless

Reviewed by Lydia (Gridley, IL), December 02, 2001
I LOVE MWS!!!!! I don't have this C.D. YET but I have some of the songs on other C.D.'s and I've heard some on the radio. Smitty is the BEST SINGER EVER!!

Reviewed by Kate (Mass), October 06, 2001
This one of my favorite cds, it got me hooked on Smitty's music. My favorite songs are Do you Dream of Me, I will Be Here for you, Place in this World,Go West young man,secret Ambition, And Friends. I think I might have become partially deaf from blaring Place in this world. Michael W Smith is the best artist by far, all his songs are awesome and his voice is really cool. Smitty rocks!!!!!!!!

Reviewed by Chelsea (GA), July 17, 2001
This cd is the coolest!! Not my favorite by Michael W Smith, but it's way up there!! My favorites on it are Do You Dream Of Me(it's such a sweet song!), Kentucky Rose(I love singing it!), I will Be Here for You(is has great lyrics not to mention beats!), Place In This World(it was always a hit, not only with me!), and Friends(I really like that one!). Great Job Michael!! You are over the top!!...

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Michael W. Smith - Change Your World, Compact Disc [CD]

2008-09-19T18:50:00.000-07:00

Reviewed by Amy Barta (Plymouth, MI), July 07, 2008
Michael W. Smith has been my favorite Christian artist since childhood, and I really enjoy hearing songs he wrote back when I was a child and heard them for the first time. 'Picture Perfect' is the first song and has been my favorite for years!

Reviewed by Tony (United Kingdom), April 04, 2005
This is THE best Smitty album of all - head and shoulders above any other pop offering he has ever produced over the many years (including 2005). Pure energy, punchy grooves and heartfelt ballads. This CD changed my view of Smitty.. buy it!

Reviewed by Nathan (Nashville, TN), November 11, 2003
Probably rated as Smitty's best accomplished album, this record has a nice array of up-tempo dance rock tracks as well as masterful power ballads to compliment his knack for great pop music writing.

Reviewed by Tina Sedlmayer (Australia), January 08, 2003
This is an awesome cd. Great songs and great music. All of Michael W Smith cds are awesome and would recommend this cd to everyone.

Reviewed by Bobby Bob (Standish ME), April 01, 2002
This is a great CD. You should buy this CD!!!!!!!!. There is plenty of great songs on it, and when you buy it, I think you will enjoy it.

Reviewed by Lydia (Gridley, IL), December 12, 2001
OH YEA GO SMITTY!!! This is my fave of all his C.D.'s (well I haven't heard them ALL)!! My favorite song is Cross Of Gold but I Wanna Tell The World, Color Blind & Friends come in close behind!! I could name off every song on this C.D. as one of my all-time faves!! GO SMITTY YOU ROCK!!...

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Michael W. Smith - Christmas CD

2008-09-19T18:43:00.000-07:00

Reviewed by Chris Smith (Gold Canyon, AZ), October 29, 2007
Listening to MWS's first Christmas album evokes childhood memories of decorating our church, sitting by the fire and many a Christmas opening gifts...simply put, this is the best album Michael W. has ever recorded and one of the best Christmas albums ever, period. From the instrumentals, to the choral arrangements, to the rousing "Gloria," this is one of those albums that completely changed how people viewed MWS as an artist. Michael demonstrates his considerable gifts in composing and arranging for with Christmas, and "All is Well" is a classic (even Michael himself says this his favorite of his songs). I would love to see a digitally remastered edition available, I'd buy it in a heartbeat.

Reviewed by Tracy (Lombard, IL), October 22, 2007
This is the best Christmas CD I have ever heard...Michael does an amazing job unifying all the pieces together. It is actually one of the best crafted CDs I own...Christmas or not.

Reviewed by Ed Whittington (Smyrna,Ga), December 16, 2002
I don't care if every store sold this CD for $25.00 I would own it. I know that God came from the sky and came into Michael's soul when he wrote All is Well. I've played thousands of songs and listened to it 10 times that many, but All is Well is the absolutely the most beautiful song I own, and the arrangement is just outstanding. If you don't own this CD, you are missing a great worship experience....

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Michael W. Smith - Go West Young Man

2008-09-19T18:41:00.000-07:00

From the first sound of galloping hooves until the synth ridden "to be continued" at the end, this album is a pop fans dream come true. This album is well produced (maybe a tad to well). The songs are all pop gems. It's such a refreshing album in many ways, Michael W. Smith is really starting to become comfortable as an artist here and isn't afraid to try new things (African children's choir on "Seed To Sow" is proof). The album has a flow to it that will keep you listening from start to finish. But - and there is a but - I could not give an honest review of this album if I were not to note some problems. If you're not a fan of pop music bordering on cheesy pop this might not be the record for you. Heavy on synthesizers and melody, this album is so sweet it should be bad for your teeth. However, in my case, all this only makes me enjoy this album more and more. Just try not to sing along to the quirky "For You." Truly a delight, it made me a Michael W. Smith fan!...

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Michael W. Smith - Michael W. Smith Christmas

2008-09-19T18:39:00.000-07:00

Michael W. Smith has been on the Christian music scene for well over 20 years now, and way back in 1989 he recorded his first seasonal album, simply entitled Christmas. You may occasionally hear a song or two off this album if you listen to a Christian music station in your area, but sadly this stellar album is usually replaced by more recent holiday contributions.

Michael either wrote or arranged every song on the album and it doesn't disappoint as far as a grand MWS production is concerned. There are amazing vocal choir pieces, glorious instrumental songs, and old favorites arranged in new ways. Amy Grant and Smitty's wife Debbie even contribute to the songs written for this album. The most hauntingly beautiful selection may very well be "All is Well," which features soloist Nathan Wadley and the American Boyschoir School ("All is well, angels and men rejoice, for tonight darkness fell into the dawn of love's light"). The album ends with a beautiful instrumental rendition of "Silent Night." This is Michael W. Smith at his very finest - at the piano and glorifying our Lord Almighty....

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Michael W. Smith - I 2 Eye

2008-09-19T18:38:00.000-07:00

Michael W. Smith is like the Sting of the Contemporary Christian world. He's very talented, maintains his popularity with the youth, and has consistently sold many albums over the last three decades. In 1988, Michael had released four albums prior to this album, but this one was very unique since it provided a new sound that appealed more to the youth than previous projects.

The album begins with the very easy-going "Hand of Providence," complete with harmonicas. It talks about how we have divine intervention. The next song, "Secret Ambition" was well known at the time due to it's unforgettable video which displayed the life of Christ. "On the Other Side" is a great song that was probably one of the least played songs on the album, and it remains one of my favorite MWS songs. It's just a nice little song with an outstanding chorus.

"All You're Missing is Heartache" is pure late-80s pop, although it's still classic MWS material. It contains background vocals from Michael Sweet of Stryper, but his vocals aren't necessarily easily recognizable. "I Miss the Way" is one of Michael's most emotional songs ever written. It describes the way it feels to watch a friend or loved one slide away from their faith, reminiscing of days when they had a passion for Christ....

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Michael W. Smith - The Live Set

2008-09-19T18:30:00.000-07:00

Michael W. Smith's first live album highlights selections from his previous album The Big Picture. It also features three songs (two on the LP) from his debut The Michael W. Smith Project and three new songs, but none from Michael W. Smith 2. The band included numerous Christian music stalwarts of the late 1980s, including Wayne Kirkpatrick, Chris Rodriguez, and Chris Harris. A video version of the concert was also available commercially....

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Michael W. Smith - The Big Picture

2008-09-19T18:25:00.000-07:00

The Big Picture, Michael W. Smith's third full-length for Reunion, was a slightly different change of pace for the budding CCM star. Whereas Smith's previous two albums, Project and Michael W. Smith 2, were self-produced, mostly keyboard driven efforts, The Big Picture sounded conspicuously like a lot of contemporary pop albums of the time: big synths, loud guitars, and that overarching "'80s sound" that sounds so horribly dated today. The catalyst for this sonic metamorphosis was undoubtedly the introduction of well-known pop producer John Potoker. Having previously worked with '80s artists Brian Eno, Talking Heads, and Madonna, Potoker infused Smith's music with a "bigger" sound in an attempt to make it more appealing to pop music fans of the day. This change was foreseeable considering Smith's strong desire to reach mainstream fans with his music, although I still can't help but cringe every time I hear its over-the-top production techniques with 21st century ears.

That being said, Smith's songwriting must be commended, because he never allows his songs get buried beneath the excessive production. This is due to the fact that the songs on The Big Picture are melodically just as strong as ever and, in fact, features some of Smitty's best songs to date. A great example is the epic "Rocketown," a touching tale about the importance of being Christ's light in the midst of a dark world. Perhaps the most affecting song of Smith's career (apart from "Friends"), it eventually became the inspiration behind Smith's record label, as well as the Nashville hot spot of the same name...

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Michael W. Smith - Michael W. Smith 2

2008-09-19T18:20:00.000-07:00

Michael W. Smith followed up his classic debut Project with another equally impressive effort: his sophomore album, simply entitled Michael W. Smith 2. Following much the same blueprint as Project, MWS2 finds Smith offering another strong mix of upbeat pop songs, melodic anthems, and powerful ballads.

Instead of working primarily with his wife Deborah, Smith opts this time for a series of co-writers, including Gary Chapman, Mike Hudson, and frequent collaborator Amy Grant. The results are fairly consistent as the album starts off with two of Smith's most recognized songs from the '80s: "A Way" and "I Am Sure." The former is a mid-tempo, yet powerful song about the restless search for assurance that precedes faith, while the latter is an optimistic glance towards the impending return of Christ. Both songs are melodically brilliant and spiritually relevant, a combination that - more than twenty years later - still makes Smith's songs an enjoyable treat to listen to. The rest of the album, meanwhile, is equally impressive: "I'm Up" is a vibrantly joyful song in both its outlook and its sound, "Restless Heart" is an engaging duet with Amy Grant, while "Hosanna" remains one of the best and most enthusiastic worship songs of Smith's career.....

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Michael W. Smith - Project

2008-09-19T18:13:00.000-07:00

Michael W. Smith is an immensely talented young man who achieved success as a songwriter with "How Majestic Is Your Name" for Sandi Patti. He has co-written a number of songs, including many on Amy Grants and Kathy Troccoli's albums. Now Michael has an album of his own.

The Michael W. Smith Project heavily drenched with keyboards and synthesizers, shows Michael as a virtual whiz on those instruments. (He just finished touring with Amy Grant, playing keyboards in her band.)

Beginning with an instrumental reminiscent of Bach, Smiths "Sonata in D Major" shows his classical training. But if the first song shows where his fingers have been, the next ones show where his heart is going: "You Need a Saviour," uptempo and nearly new wave, "Could He Be the Messiah," and "Be Strong and Courageous" all cookers.

One side two Amy Grant sings along on "Friends." "Great Is the Lord" with its chorus could soon join "How Majestic" as one of all-time great praise songs from contemporary Christian music. Michael, heavy on music but light on words, is perfectly complemented by wife Debbie, who writes the lyrics for Michael's tunes.

Projectis a powerful debut album full of energy, excitement, and the keyboard/synthesizer sound heard all over pop radio. But more than that, this album is full of the promise of a great new talent. -- Don Cusic (c) 1983 CCM Communications, Inc....

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Awards

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Grammy Awards

* 2004 Worship Again – Best Pop/Contemporary Gospel Album
* 1995 I’ll Lead You Home – Best Pop/Contemporary Gospel Album
* 1984 Michael W. Smith 2 – Best Gospel Performance, Male

Grammy Nominations

* 2006 Healing Rain – Best Christian Pop Album
* 2002 Worship – Best Pop/Contemporary Gospel Album
* 2000 This Is Your Time – Best Pop/Contemporary Gospel Album
* 1998 Live the Life – Best Pop/Contemporary Gospel Album
* 1990 Go West Young Man – Best Pop Gospel Album
* 1989 "Holy, Holy, Holy" – Best Gospel Vocal Performance, Male (Track from Our Hymns, Word Gospel)
* 1988 I 2(Eye) – Best Gospel Performance, Male
* 1986 The Big Picture – Best Gospel Performance, Male
* 1983 Michael W. Smith Project – Best Gospel Performance, Male

Dove Awards

* 2008 Christmas Album of the Year
* 2003 Artist of the Year
* 2003 Male Vocalist of the Year
* 2003 Album of the Year – Worship Again (producer, artist)
* 2003 Long Form Music Video of the Year – Worship DVD/Video (producer, artist)
* 2002 Artist of the Year
* 2002 Album of the Year – Worship (producer, artist)
* 2002 Instrumental Album of the Year – Freedom (producer, artist)
* 2002 Inspirational Recorded Song of the Year – "Above All" (artist)
* 2001 Youth/Children’s Musical Album of the Year – Friends 4 Ever (artist)
* 2001 Pop/Contemporary Album of the Year – This is Your Time (producer, artist)
* 2000 Song of the Year – "This is Your Time" (artist)
* 2000 Songwriter of the Year
* 2000 Short Form Music Video of the Year – "This is Your Time" (artist)
* 1999 Artist of the Year
* 1999 Producer of the Year
* 1999 Pop/Contemporary Album of the Year – Live the Life (producer, artist)
* 1999 Special Event Album of the Year – Exodus (artist)
* 1998 Special Event Album of the Year – God With Us – A Celebration of Christmas Carols and Classics (artist)
* 1998 Children’s Music Album of the Year – Sing Me to Sleep Daddy (artist)
* 1997 Special Event Album of the Year – Tribute: The Songs of Andre Crouch (artist)
* 1996 Songwriter of the Year
* 1996 Special Event Album of the Year – My Utmost For His Highest (artist)
* 1995 Musical Album of the Year – Living on the Edge (artist)
* 1994 Praise and Worship Album of the Year – Songs From the Loft (artist)
* 1992 Song of the Year – "Place in this World" (artist)
* 1992 Musical Album of the Year – The Big Picture (artist)
* 1992 Choral Collection of the Year – The Michael W. Smith Collection (artist)
* 1991 Pop/Contemporary Album of the Year – Go West Young Man (producer, artist)
* 1990 Short Form Music Video of the Year – "I Miss the Way" (artist)
* 1988 Long Form Music Video of the Year – "The Big Picture Tour Video" (artist)
* 1987 Pop/Contemporary Album of the Year – The Big Picture (producer, artist)
* 1985 Songwriter of the Year

Christian Music Links!

Discography

2008-09-19T10:16:00.001-07:00

Studio albums

Title	Release Date	The Billboard 200 Chart Position	RIAA Certification
The Michael W. Smith Project	1983	-	Gold
Michael W. Smith 2	1984	-
The Big Picture	Feb. 1, 1986	-
i 2 (EYE)	1988	-	Gold
Christmas	June 1989	-	Gold
Go West Young Man	1990	74	Platinum
Change Your World	Jan. 1, 1992	86	Platinum
The Wonder Years (box set)	1993	-
The First Decade (1983-1993)	Oct. 12, 1993	-	Gold
I'll Lead You Home	Aug. 29, 1995	16	Platinum
Live the Life	Apr. 28, 1998	23	Gold
Christmastime	Oct. 13, 1998	90	Gold
This Is Your Time	Nov. 23, 1999	21	Gold
Freedom	Nov. 21, 2000	70	Gold
The Second Decade (1993-2003)	Oct. 7, 2003	38
Healing Rain	Oct. 26, 2004	11	Gold
Stand	Nov 7. 2006	49
It's a Wonderful Christmas	Oct 16, 2007	59

Live albums

Title	Release Date	The Billboard 200 Chart Position	RIAA Certification	CRIA Certification Canada
The Live Set	Mar. 1, 1987	-
Worship	Sep. 11, 2001	20	Platinum	Gold
Worship Again	Oct. 22, 2002	14	Gold
A New Hallelujah	Oct 28, 2008

Imports

Album	Release Year	The Billboard 200 Chart Position	RIAA Certification
Live the Life (w/bonus tracks - Japanese Import)	1998	-	-
Freedom	2000	-	-

Collaborative Albums

Album	Release Year	The Billboard 200 Chart Position	RIAA Certification
Our Christmas	1990	-	-
Our Hymns	1991	-	-
My Utmost for His Highest	1995	-	-
My Utmost for His Highest: The Covenant	1996	-	-
Emmanuel	1996	-	-
Tribute: The Songs Of Andrae' Crouch	1996	-	-
The Jesus Record	1997	-	-
Awesome God: A Tribute to Rich Mullins	1998	-	-
Exodus	1998	-	-
The McCaughey Septuplets: Sweet Dreams	2000	-	-
Your Love Broke Through: The Worship Songs of Keith Green	2002	-	-
Roaring Lambs	2005	-	-
Ultimate Music Makeover: The Songs of Michael W. Smith	2005	-	-

Singles/Specialty/EP's

Album	Release Year	The Billboard 200 Chart Position	RIAA Certification
Picture Perfect (Remix)	1993	-	-
Hugs & Kisses	1993	-	-
Live The Life (Remix EP)	1997	-	-
Love Me Good (Single)	1998	-	-
The Acoustic Set: A Live Recording	2000	-	-
Devotions	2001	-	-

Singles

Year	Title	Chart positions
Year	Title	Billboard Adult Contemporary	Billboard Hot 100
1991	"Place In This World"	5	6
1991	"For You"	20	60
1992	"I Will Be Here For You"	1	27
1993	"Somebody Love Me"	10	71
1998	"Love Me Good"	-	61
1999	"This Is Your Time"	25	-
2005	"Bridge Over Troubled Water"	28	-

Video (DVD/VHS)
* Live in Concert – A 20 Year Celebration (DVD) (2003)
* Worship (DVD) (2002)CRIA Gold in Canada
* Change Your World Live (VHS) (1993)
* The Big Picture Tour (VHS) (1987)
* Michael W. Smith In Concert (VHS) (1985)

Soundtrack (CD)
* The Second Chance (CD) (2006)

Motion picture (DVD)
* Joshua (DVD) (2002)
* [1] The Second Chance (DVD) (2006)

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Personal life

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Smith is married to Deborah "Debbie" K. Davis Smith and has five children: Ryan Whitaker, Whitney Katherine Smith-Mooring (married to Jack Mooring of the band Leeland), Tyler Michael, Anna Elizabeth and Emily Allison. He resides in the Nashville suburbs and spends time at the Smith family farm.

Smith is an alumnus of Alderson-Broaddus College, having been awarded the degree Doctor of Music honoris causa in 1992.

Smith is the founding and visionary pastor of New River Fellowship in Franklin, TN. He was the lead pastor from 2006 and 2008, but decided God was leading him in a different direction and passed the torch on. Smith and his wife remain involved members of the church.

Smith is an outspoken supporter of the Republican Party, and is personal friends with several prominent Republicans, including President George W. Bush.[7][8] He officially endorsed Republican Sam Brownback's unsuccessful presidential campaign.

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Other ventures

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In 1994, Smith opened a teen club, named Rocketown, in Franklin, Tennessee. Later in early 2003, the club was moved to a new location—a renovated warehouse in downtown Nashville. The venue offers a large dance floor, extensive indoor skate park, and a cafe hosting live acoustic music. Rocketown is located on 401 6th Ave. S. Quoting an Christian Activities article, Rocketown's mission is to create culturally relevant environments that foster vital relationships between disenfranchised adolescents and Christian mentors in order to meet their physical, social, and spiritual needs.

Smith is actively involved in volunteer service and is vice chair of the President's Council on Service and Civic Participation, which is chaired by Jean Case of the Case Foundation. He is also an avid spokesperson for sponsoring children through Compassion International.[6]

Smith finished work on a film directed by Steve Taylor entitled The Second Chance which was released on February 17, 2006 in selected theatres. In the movie, he stars as a pastor assigned to work in the inner city. The film also stars Jeff Obafemi Carr, and features a soundtrack now available from Reunion Records. The DVD of the movie was released on July 18, 2006.

In July 2007 Smith performed live for a San Diego concert as a part of Sean Hannity's "Freedom Concert" tour.

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In the mainstream

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In 1990, Smith released Go West Young Man, which was his first mainstream effort, including the mainstream crossover hit "Place in This World," which peaked at #6 on the Billboard Hot 100. That album was followed by 1992s Change Your World (which included the #1 adult contemporary hit "I Will Be Here For You"), 1995's I'll Lead You Home, and 1998's Live the Life. Also in 1998, Smith released his second Christmas effort, Christmastime. In 1999, Smith released This Is Your Time (which is about Cassie Bernall, one of the students who was killed during the Columbine massacre. She was killed when one of the shooters reportedly asked her if she believed in God, and she said yes—although some reports of the killings indicate that a different girl who was shot but survived was asked that question. In the music video for this song, the beginning shows a real video of Cassie talking about her religious beliefs and how she wanted to spread the word of God.), written by Smith and Wes King, the brother-in-law of Florida Secretary of State Katherine Harris, which was inspired by the Columbine shootings. Smith had been asked to perform at some of the memorial services that were held in honor of the victims, which made a huge impression on him.

In 1996, Smith opened his own record label (although he does not record on it), Rocketown Records, named for a song on The Big Picture. He states the label is driven by the artists, and the first artist signed was Chris Rice, who had written "Go Light Your World", a #1 hit song by Kathy Troccoli, in 1995.

Nearly all of Smith's albums contain at least one instrumental track, and in 2000, Smith recorded his first all instrumental album, Freedom, after many years of wanting to create an instrumental album. The following year, Smith released an all praise and worship album, called Worship on September 11. This album was followed by a sequel, Worship Again in 2002. Both albums were recorded live in concert. (Both are also the only two albums to be comprised almost entirely of songs he did not write himself). A Worship DVD, which comprised a selection of songs from both albums, was recorded live in Edmonton, Alberta at YC Alberta and released in 2002. It immediately topped the Billboard video charts and became a Gold seller in both the U.S. and Canada.

After two decades, Smith finally won the Male Vocalist of the Year award at the GMA Music Awards in 2003.

Smith wrote a song entitled "There She Stands", prompted by the 9/11 terrorist attacks. He performed this song live for the 2004 Republican National Convention. In introducing the song before he performed it, he made remarks about meeting personally with President George W. Bush (who has a personal nickname for him, "W") in the Oval Office in October of 2001, a short time after the attacks. Smith mentioned that the President, a personal fan (as is the President's father), and family friend of the artist, had asked him to attempt to write a song about the attacks. The song is about America's ability to rise from the ashes and remain strong even after such horrific events.

Smith became a good friend of U2 frontman Bono. The two have joined forces on a number of occasions for performances and in connection to Bono's DATA Organization. While U2 was recording its album How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb, Bono even invited Smith to jam with them in the studio. The song that the group worked on with Smith, entitled "North Star," did not end up making it onto the record, but might surface in the future on another project.[4]

Smith's album, Healing Rain, was released in 2004 and debuted at #11 on the Billboard Hot 200 Chart. The title track rose to #1 on the Radio & Records Charts and a music video for the song was released. The album nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Pop/Contemporary Gospel Album, combines the pop style of his previous recordings with the praise and worship feel of his two releases in that genre. A new album, Stand, was released in November, 2006.

Smith and his wife have written the theme songs for Kanakuk Kamps for the past two decades. The theme songs have birthed such notable hits as "Love Crusade", "Live the Life", and "Straight to the Heart". The Christian youth at this camp give Smith access to a steady, young audience even as his original fans age.

At a concert in Wabash, Indiana on April 29, 2007, Smith announced that he was soon headed to London to begin recording his third Christmas album. It was reported on Christian Today that the new album would be a collection of all-original Christmas songs. [1] The album titled 'It’s A Wonderful Christmas' was released on October 16, 2007.

On June 20, 2008, Smith recorded his third live worship album at the Lakewood Church in Houston, Texas, to be titled A New Hallelujah.[5]

On October 9, 2008, in Columbus, Ohio, he will unite with his fellow Christian musician friend, Steven Curtis Chapman, beginning a multi-city concert series called The United Tour.

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Songwriting success

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In 1981, Smith was signed as a writer to Meadowgreen Music, where he racked up a number of highly successful gospel hits penned for artists like Sandi Patty, Kathy Troccoli, Bill Gaither, and Amy Grant. The following year, Smith began touring as a keyboardist for Grant on her Age to Age tour. He would eventually become Grant's opening act and recorded his first Grammy nominated solo album: The Michael W. Smith Project (which he also produced), in 1983, on the Reunion Records label; a label started by Grant's brother-in-law, Dan Harrell, along with Michael Blanton. This album contained the first recording of his hit Friends which he co-wrote with his wife Deborah. Incidentally, the song that is most associated with him, probably took him the least amount of time to write, as they wrote it one afternoon for a friend who was moving away, never thinking it would become the hit it has.

By the time Smith's second pop album was released in 1984, he was headlining his own tours. In 1986, Smith released the critically acclaimed rock album The Big Picture, with well known record producer Johnny Potoker (Brian Eno, Genesis, Madonna, No Doubt, Talking Heads, etc). On a track titled "Tearing Down The Walls" from The Big Picture, Michael intros with an Amy Grant recording of Emmanuel played backwards via the CD search button. Michael has explained that he and John Potoker were trying to come up with a different way to go into the song.

After the release of his 1988 effort, i 2 (EYE), Smith once again teamed up with Amy Grant for her "Lead Me On World Tour". The following year, Smith recorded his first Christmas album.

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Beginnings

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Michael Whitaker Smith was born October 7, 1957 to Paul and Barbara Smith in Richmond Hill, West Virginia. His father was an oil refinery worker and his mother was a caterer.[2] He inherited his love of baseball from his father, who had played in the minor leagues. Michael developed a love of music through his church. He learned piano at an early age and sang in his church choir. At the age of thirteen, Michael had "an intense spiritual experience" that led to his becoming a devout Christian. "I wore this big cross around my neck," he would recall, "It was very real to me."[3] He got involved in Bible study and found a group of older friends who shared his commitment to Jesus Christ. These were very happy years for Michael.[3]

After his older Christian friends moved away to college, Michael began to struggle with feelings of loneliness and alienation. After graduating from high school, he gravitated toward alcohol and drugs.[2] He attended Marshall University for a few semesters while developing his songwriting skills. He also played with various local bands around Huntington, West Virginia. During that time, his friend Shane Keister, who worked as a session musician in Nashville, encouraged Michael to move to the Country Music capital and pursue a career in music.[3]

In 1978, Michael moved to Nashville to follow his dream, but it was not easy getting started. He took a job as a landscaper to support himself. He played with several local bands in the Nashville club scene.

"I really started losing touch when I moved to Nashville, around April of '78. I was smokin' marijuana, drinking, doing some other drugs; just being crazy, you know. My mom and dad knew what I was doing. But they never hassled me, they just prayed for me. And I felt convicted by God. Every time I'd wake up I knew: This isn't me. But I couldn't change myself."

In November 1979, Smith suffered a breakdown that led to his recommitment to Jesus Christ. The next day he auditioned for a new CCM group, Higher Ground, as a keyboardist and got the job. It was on his first tour with Higher Ground, playing mostly in churches, that Smith was finally able to put the drugs and alcohol behind him.

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