Michael W. Smith is an American contemporary Christian music singer, songwriter, and musician. Born on October 7, 1957, in Kenova, West Virginia, Smith has had a profound impact on the Christian music industry and beyond.
Smith began his music career in the early 1980s, and he quickly rose to prominence with his unique blend of pop, rock, and contemporary Christian music. He released his debut album, “The Michael W. Smith Project,” in 1983, which garnered critical acclaim and laid the foundation for his future success.
Throughout his career, Smith has released numerous albums and singles that have topped the Christian music charts and crossed over into mainstream success. Some of his most well-known songs include “Friends,” “Place in this World,” “Above All,” and “Agnus Dei.”
In addition to his music career, Smith is also known for his philanthropy and humanitarian efforts. He has been involved in various charitable organizations and initiatives, using his platform to make a positive impact in the world.
Overall, Michael W. Smith is celebrated as one of the most influential figures in contemporary Christian music. His powerful vocals, heartfelt lyrics, and unwavering faith have inspired millions of listeners around the world, earning him a place as one of the genre’s most beloved artists.
1. Friends
“Friends” is a song by Michael W. Smith, released in 1983 on his debut album, “The Michael W. Smith Project.” The song is characterized by its upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and heartfelt lyrics about friendship.
“Friends” has become one of Michael W. Smith’s most iconic songs and a staple in the Christian music genre. It celebrates the importance of friendship and the bonds that bring people together, with lyrics like “And friends are friends forever if the Lord’s the Lord of them” and “And a friend will not say never ’cause the welcome will not end.”
The song’s uplifting message and memorable melody have made it a favorite among fans, and it has been performed at various events, including weddings, graduations, and church services. “Friends” has also been covered by numerous artists and has become a timeless classic in the realm of Christian music.
Overall, “Friends” is celebrated as a beloved anthem of friendship and camaraderie, and it continues to resonate with listeners of all ages, reminding them of the enduring value of true friendship.
2. Place in This World
“Place in This World” is a song by Michael W. Smith, released in 1990 on his album “Go West Young Man.” The song is characterized by its introspective lyrics, uplifting melody, and powerful vocal performance by Smith.
Lyrically, “Place in This World” explores themes of self-discovery, purpose, and belonging. Smith reflects on his journey through life, expressing feelings of uncertainty and searching for meaning, with lyrics like “Looking for a reason, roaming through the night to find my place in this world.” The song’s lyrics convey a sense of longing and introspection, with Smith ultimately finding solace in his faith and realizing that his true purpose lies in serving others.
“Place in This World” became one of Michael W. Smith’s signature songs and a commercial success, topping the charts in the Christian music genre and earning widespread acclaim from fans and critics alike. It is celebrated for its heartfelt lyrics, inspirational message, and Smith’s emotive vocal delivery.
The song’s music video features Smith performing in various settings, interspersed with footage of people from all walks of life, reflecting the song’s universal themes of searching for meaning and finding one’s place in the world.
Overall, “Place in This World” is celebrated as one of Michael W. Smith’s most powerful and enduring songs. Its poignant lyrics, uplifting melody, and heartfelt message have made it a favorite among fans and a timeless classic in the realm of Christian music.
3. Agnus Dei
“Agnus Dei” by Michael W. Smith is a contemporary Christian worship song that has become widely popular since its release in 1990 on his album *Go West Young Man*. The title “Agnus Dei” translates from Latin as “Lamb of God,” and the song’s lyrics are based on the biblical imagery of Jesus Christ as the sacrificial Lamb who takes away the sins of the world.
The song features a simple yet powerful melody that emphasizes worship and adoration, focusing on the holiness and majesty of God. It begins with the chorus of “Alleluia, Alleluia, For the Lord God Almighty reigns,” followed by the repeated refrain of “Holy, Holy, are You Lord God Almighty, Worthy is the Lamb, Worthy is the Lamb, Amen.”
“Agnus Dei” has been embraced by Christian congregations and worship teams worldwide for its profound lyrics and its ability to create an atmosphere of reverence and praise. Michael W. Smith’s rendition is known for its emotive vocals and the way it builds in intensity, making it a staple in contemporary Christian worship services and gatherings.
Overall, “Agnus Dei” is celebrated as a powerful worship song that continues to resonate with believers, drawing them into a deeper experience of worship and reverence for God.
4. Above All
“Above All” is a contemporary Christian worship song written by Paul Baloche and Lenny LeBlanc. It was popularized by Michael W. Smith, who recorded it for his album *Worship* in 2001. The song has since become a staple in Christian worship services worldwide.
“Above All” emphasizes the centrality of Jesus Christ in the Christian faith, highlighting His supreme authority and sacrificial love. The lyrics reflect on the significance of Christ’s death and resurrection, proclaiming Him as “above all powers, above all kings, above all nature and all created things.” The chorus declares, “Crucified, laid behind the stone, You lived to die, rejected and alone, like a rose trampled on the ground, You took the fall and thought of me above all.”
The song is known for its powerful message, emotive melody, and the way it invites worshippers to reflect on the depth of God’s love and the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. “Above All” has been covered by various Christian artists and is often sung in churches during times of worship and reflection on the significance of Christ’s death and resurrection.
Overall, “Above All” continues to resonate with believers for its poignant lyrics and its ability to inspire heartfelt worship and adoration for Jesus Christ, whom Christians believe is above all things and worthy of all praise.
5. Open the Eyes of My Heart
“Open the Eyes of My Heart” is a worship song written by Paul Baloche, a contemporary Christian music artist, and songwriter. It was released in 1997 on his album “Open the Eyes of My Heart.” The song quickly became popular in Christian worship settings and is considered a modern worship classic.
The lyrics of “Open the Eyes of My Heart” express a desire for spiritual enlightenment and a deeper connection with God. The refrain, “Open the eyes of my heart, Lord, I want to see You,” reflects the longing to experience God’s presence and to understand His will. The song’s simple yet profound lyrics resonate with worshippers seeking intimacy with God and a renewed perspective on their faith journey.
Musically, “Open the Eyes of My Heart” is characterized by its gentle melody and heartfelt vocals. The song’s simplicity allows worshippers to focus on its message and engage in personal reflection and prayer. It has been covered by various Christian artists and is frequently sung in churches and worship gatherings around the world.
Overall, “Open the Eyes of My Heart” is celebrated as a timeless worship song that has touched the hearts of countless worshippers. Its earnest plea for spiritual awakening and intimacy with God continues to resonate with believers seeking to deepen their faith and encounter the presence of the divine.
6. Breathe
“Breathe” is a worship song written by Marie Barnett, originally recorded by worship artist Michael W. Smith for his 2001 album *Worship*. It became one of the standout tracks of the album and has since been widely covered by various artists in the Christian music genre.
The song “Breathe” is a prayerful expression of longing for God’s presence and a desire to be filled with His Spirit. The lyrics begin with the words, “This is the air I breathe, Your holy presence living in me,” emphasizing the essential need for God’s presence in one’s life. The chorus continues, “And I, I’m desperate for You, and I, I’m lost without You.”
“Breathe” is characterized by its gentle melody, heartfelt lyrics, and its ability to create an atmosphere of worship and intimacy with God. It has been embraced by churches and worshippers worldwide for its simplicity and its message of reliance on God’s presence and guidance in every aspect of life.
Overall, “Breathe” by Michael W. Smith remains a beloved worship song that continues to inspire and uplift listeners, encouraging them to draw closer to God and experience His peace and love.
7. Healing Rain
“Healing Rain” is a song by Michael W. Smith, released in 2004 on his album of the same name, “Healing Rain.” The song is characterized by its uplifting melody, poignant lyrics, and powerful message of hope and restoration.
Lyrically, “Healing Rain” is a prayer for spiritual renewal and healing. Smith sings about the need for God’s healing rain to wash away pain, sorrow, and brokenness, with lyrics like “Healing rain is falling down, healing rain is falling down, I’m not afraid, I’m not afraid.” The song’s lyrics convey a sense of surrender and faith, as Smith acknowledges his need for divine intervention and trusts in God’s ability to bring healing and restoration.
“Healing Rain” became a commercial success, topping the charts in the Christian music genre and earning widespread acclaim from fans and critics alike. It is celebrated for its heartfelt lyrics, inspirational message, and Smith’s emotive vocal performance.
The song’s music video features Smith performing in various settings, interspersed with imagery of rain falling and people experiencing moments of healing and transformation. The video’s visual storytelling complements the song’s themes of renewal and restoration, reinforcing its powerful message.
Overall, “Healing Rain” is celebrated as one of Michael W. Smith’s most powerful and impactful songs. Its poignant lyrics, uplifting melody, and message of hope have resonated with listeners around the world, offering comfort and encouragement to those in need of healing and restoration.
8. Mighty to Save
“Mighty to Save” is a contemporary worship song written by Ben Fielding and Reuben Morgan, members of the Australian worship band Hillsong Worship. It was first released in 2006 on the album *Mighty to Save* by Hillsong Church.
The song “Mighty to Save” has become immensely popular in Christian worship settings around the world. Its lyrics focus on the power and saving grace of Jesus Christ, proclaiming Him as the one who is mighty to save and able to rescue and redeem humanity. The chorus declares, “Savior, He can move the mountains, My God is mighty to save, He is mighty to save,” emphasizing God’s ability to bring salvation and transformation to those who trust in Him.
Musically, “Mighty to Save” features a dynamic and uplifting melody that builds in intensity throughout the song. It is known for its powerful simplicity and its ability to lead congregations into a time of worship and reflection on God’s saving grace.
The song has been covered by numerous Christian artists and worship bands, further spreading its message of hope and redemption. “Mighty to Save” remains a cornerstone of modern worship music, cherished for its profound lyrics and its invitation to believers to trust in God’s unfailing love and power.
9. Draw Me Close
“Draw Me Close” is a worship song written by Kelly Carpenter, a contemporary Christian music artist, and songwriter. It was popularized by various Christian artists and is frequently sung in churches and worship gatherings around the world.
The lyrics of “Draw Me Close” express a desire for intimacy with God and a deeper connection to His presence. The song’s refrain, “Draw me close to you, never let me go, I lay it all down again, to hear you say that I’m your friend,” reflects the longing to experience God’s love and to be in close communion with Him. The song’s simple yet profound lyrics resonate with worshippers seeking to draw near to God and to experience His grace and mercy.
Musically, “Draw Me Close” is characterized by its gentle melody and heartfelt vocals. The song’s simplicity allows worshippers to focus on its message and engage in personal reflection and prayer. It has been covered by various Christian artists and is often included in worship albums and compilations.
Overall, “Draw Me Close” is celebrated as a timeless worship song that has touched the hearts of countless believers. Its earnest plea for intimacy with God and its expression of devotion and surrender continue to resonate with worshippers seeking to deepen their faith and to experience the presence of the divine.
10. Sovereign Over Us
“Sovereign Over Us” is a worship song written by Aaron Keyes, Bryan Brown, and Jack Mooring, originally performed by Aaron Keyes. It was released in 2011 and has since been covered by various Christian artists and worship bands.
The song “Sovereign Over Us” emphasizes the sovereignty and providence of God over all aspects of life, even in times of difficulty and uncertainty. The lyrics reflect on God’s faithfulness and His ability to work all things together for good for those who love Him. The chorus proclaims, “And You are sovereign over us, You are wisdom unimagined, Who could understand Your ways,” acknowledging God’s infinite wisdom and control over every circumstance.
Musically, “Sovereign Over Us” features a gentle and reflective melody that allows worshippers to meditate on the profound truth of God’s sovereignty. It is often sung in churches during times of worship and prayer, providing comfort and assurance of God’s presence and guidance.
Overall, “Sovereign Over Us” is celebrated for its theological depth, heartfelt lyrics, and its ability to lead worshippers into a deeper understanding of God’s sovereignty and His steadfast love. It continues to be a meaningful song in the repertoire of contemporary Christian worship music.