Michael W. Smith is nothing short of a musical legend. For decades, his heartfelt lyrics, soaring melodies, and deeply spiritual themes have captivated millions around the globe. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Christian music or just discovering the genre, Smith’s work has an uncanny ability to inspire, uplift, and move the soul. With a career spanning over four decades, the Grammy-winning artist has given us countless unforgettable tracks that blend worship, pop, and contemporary sounds like no one else can.
But which songs stand out as the crown jewels of his incredible discography? From his early classics to modern worship anthems, this list counts down the top 10 most popular Michael W. Smith songs of all time. These tracks have not only topped charts but have also become the soundtrack to countless personal journeys of faith, hope, and love. Each song tells a story, carries a message, and resonates with listeners in a unique way. Get ready to dive into the melodies that have defined a generation and discover why Michael W. Smith continues to be a guiding light in the world of Christian music. Let the countdown begin!
1. Friends (1983)
“Friends” is one of Michael W. Smith’s most beloved and enduring songs, a true anthem for anyone who has ever experienced the bittersweet nature of saying goodbye. Released in 1983 on his debut album Michael W. Smith Project, the song was co-written with his wife, Deborah D. Smith. Its heartfelt lyrics capture the idea that true friendships are eternal, grounded not just in affection, but in faith and shared experiences. The simple yet powerful line, “A friend’s a friend forever if the Lord’s the Lord of them,” has comforted countless people at graduations, memorials, and other milestone moments. The gentle piano melody paired with Smith’s sincere vocals makes the track feel deeply personal yet universally relatable. Over time, “Friends” became more than just a song—it turned into a tradition at Christian events, where its message of love and lasting connection still resonates. Its emotional depth, touching simplicity, and timeless appeal have solidified “Friends” as one of the cornerstones of contemporary Christian music, and it continues to bring comfort and hope to listeners of all ages.
2. Place in This World (1990)
When “Place in This World” was released in 1990 as part of the album Go West Young Man, it marked a turning point in Michael W. Smith’s career. For the first time, he crossed into mainstream pop territory while holding firmly to his Christian faith. The song’s introspective lyrics speak directly to the universal human desire to find purpose, meaning, and belonging. Its piano-driven melody and Smith’s earnest vocals resonated far beyond Christian audiences, reaching No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The vulnerability in the lyrics—”I’m looking for a reason / Roaming through the night to find my place in this world”—struck a chord with listeners navigating life’s uncertainties. “Place in This World” became an anthem for anyone who has ever felt lost or searching. Michael W. Smith’s ability to blend a deeply personal message with an accessible pop sound made the song a standout in both the Christian and mainstream music scenes. Decades later, it remains one of his most iconic tracks, continuing to inspire people to trust that their place and purpose will unfold in time.
3. Above All (2001)
“Above All” quickly became one of Michael W. Smith’s most cherished worship songs when it appeared on his 2001 live album Worship. Although the song was written by Paul Baloche and Lenny LeBlanc, Smith’s heartfelt performance brought it to a global audience. The lyrics paint a moving picture of Christ’s sacrifice and love, describing Him as “above all powers, above all kings,” emphasizing His unmatched greatness. What makes “Above All” so special is its humility—the way it acknowledges Jesus’ suffering and His ultimate triumph over sin. Smith’s emotive voice and the soaring melody create an atmosphere of reverence that has made the song a favorite in churches around the world. It’s not just a song to sing; it’s a song to experience, often leading listeners into moments of deep worship and reflection. Even years later, “Above All” still feels fresh and powerful, a testament to both the strength of the songwriting and Smith’s ability to deliver a message straight to the heart. It’s a true worship classic that continues to inspire countless believers.
4. Great Is the Lord (1982)
Released in 1982 on Michael W. Smith Project, “Great Is the Lord” was one of Michael W. Smith’s very first songs—and it became an instant worship standard. Written alongside his wife, Deborah D. Smith, the song is a simple yet powerful declaration of God’s majesty. Its singable melody and heartfelt praise made it a perfect fit for churches, quickly gaining popularity in Christian worship circles. The chorus, “Great is the Lord, and worthy of glory,” is both uplifting and easy to remember, inviting congregations to join in collective worship. Smith’s background in church music shines here, blending strong theology with approachable music. Even with the growth and evolution of worship music over the years, “Great Is the Lord” continues to be sung around the world, proving the lasting power of a sincere heart of praise. This song helped establish Smith not just as a performer, but as a songwriter whose music would fuel worship for generations. It remains a beautiful reminder of God’s greatness and a foundational piece of Smith’s incredible legacy.
5. Healing Rain (2004)
“Healing Rain,” the title track from Michael W. Smith’s 2004 album, is a powerful anthem of spiritual renewal and hope. From its first notes, the song invites listeners into a space where brokenness meets restoration. Smith paints a vivid picture using the imagery of rain as a metaphor for God’s healing touch. With sweeping orchestration, soaring vocals, and heartfelt lyrics, “Healing Rain” feels both grand and deeply personal. It speaks to anyone longing for transformation and grace, offering assurance that no wound is too deep for God to heal. The chorus is especially stirring: “Healing rain, it comes with fire / So let it fall and take us higher.” It captures both the gentle and powerful aspects of God’s presence. Musically, the track blends contemporary Christian pop with hints of gospel and orchestral grandeur, creating a worshipful experience that crosses genre boundaries. Over time, “Healing Rain” has become a cherished song for those walking through difficult seasons, offering a reminder that God’s mercy flows freely and abundantly. It stands out as a shining example of Smith’s gift for blending artful music with profound spiritual truth.
6. Breathe (2001)
Originally written by Marie Barnett, “Breathe” became a global worship favorite when Michael W. Smith recorded it for his 2001 live album Worship. Smith’s heartfelt interpretation brought a new intensity and intimacy to the song, allowing it to resonate with an even wider audience. The lyrics, centered around a deep longing for God’s presence, are beautifully simple yet profoundly moving: “This is the air I breathe, Your holy presence living in me.” Smith’s tender vocal delivery and the understated musical arrangement invite listeners into a quiet, personal moment of worship. It’s the kind of song that naturally leads people to pause, reflect, and open their hearts. “Breathe” captures the essence of worship as a life-sustaining need rather than just an occasional practice. Its message—that God’s presence is as essential as the air we breathe—continues to touch countless souls across denominations and generations. In Smith’s hands, the song feels like both a whisper and a cry of dependence, creating an atmosphere where worshippers can feel intimately connected to God. Even today, “Breathe” remains a staple in churches worldwide, a timeless reminder of the deep relationship believers are invited to have with their Creator.
7. Secret Ambition (1988)
“Secret Ambition,” released in 1988 on the album i 2 (EYE), showcases a bold side of Michael W. Smith that audiences hadn’t seen before. This high-energy track tells the powerful story of Jesus Christ’s earthly mission in a dramatic and cinematic way. From its driving beat to its thought-provoking lyrics, the song pulls listeners into the heart of Christ’s journey, emphasizing that His true purpose—His “secret ambition”—was to die for humanity’s salvation. The music video, which was groundbreaking at the time, visually depicted key moments from Jesus’ life, further amplifying the song’s impact. “Secret Ambition” pushed the boundaries of what Christian music could look and sound like, proving that faith-based songs could carry strong narratives and rock-inspired energy. Smith’s passionate performance, combined with the compelling storytelling, made the song a standout on the album and in his overall career. It remains a fan favorite for its boldness and depth, reminding listeners that Christ’s greatest act was not just His miracles, but His willing sacrifice. “Secret Ambition” is a vivid testament to Michael W. Smith’s creativity and his unwavering commitment to sharing the Gospel in powerful, relatable ways.
8. Agnus Dei (1990)
Few worship songs capture a sense of awe and reverence quite like Michael W. Smith’s rendition of “Agnus Dei.” Featured on his 1990 album Go West Young Man and later brought to even greater prominence on Worship (2001), this timeless song is centered on one simple but profound theme: the holiness of God. The title, “Agnus Dei,” means “Lamb of God” in Latin, and the song’s repetitive, soaring lyrics create a meditative atmosphere where worshippers can lose themselves in adoration. Smith’s emotional delivery, coupled with the majestic musical arrangement, elevates the song into something truly transcendent. It feels less like a performance and more like an invitation to step into the throne room of heaven. “Agnus Dei” doesn’t rely on complex verses or heavy instrumentation; its power comes from its pure, heartfelt simplicity. As Smith sings, “Worthy is the Lamb,” it’s impossible not to be moved. Even decades after its release, “Agnus Dei” continues to be a staple in worship settings around the world. It remains one of Michael W. Smith’s most powerful and enduring contributions to Christian music, inspiring countless believers to lift their voices in praise to the King of Kings.
9. Cry for Love (1995)
“Cry for Love,” from Michael W. Smith’s 1995 album I’ll Lead You Home, is a stirring call for compassion in a world often marked by division and pain. The song’s lyrics are a heartfelt plea, urging listeners to recognize the deep need for love and understanding not just within themselves, but across society as a whole. Smith’s passionate vocals, paired with a soaring, emotional melody, amplify the urgency of the message. “Cry for Love” stands out because it addresses real-world issues while maintaining a strong spiritual foundation, something Smith has always done masterfully. It reminds listeners that love is not a passive feeling but an active, powerful force capable of healing brokenness. Musically, the song blends pop and inspirational elements, making it accessible to a wide range of audiences without sacrificing its depth. Even years after its release, “Cry for Love” feels timely and relevant, continuing to speak into the struggles and hopes of people everywhere. It’s a beautiful reminder that true change begins with love—God’s love reflected through human hearts—and that message remains just as necessary today as it was in the mid-’90s.
10. This Is Your Time (1999)
“This Is Your Time,” released in 1999, is one of Michael W. Smith’s most moving and courageous songs. Inspired by the real-life story of Cassie Bernall, a victim of the Columbine High School shooting who professed her faith in her final moments, the song is a powerful tribute to bravery, faith, and living with purpose. The haunting yet hopeful melody pairs perfectly with Smith’s tender vocals, as he urges listeners not to waste the precious time they’ve been given. Lyrics like “This is your time, this is your dance” challenge each person to seize their life with courage and intentionality. The song carries a weight of responsibility, yet it is also infused with hope—a call to live for something greater than oneself. Musically, “This Is Your Time” blends a soft, reflective tone with a stirring, anthemic build, making it both intimate and grand. It remains a defining moment in Smith’s career, capturing the essence of his ability to merge music with powerful storytelling. “This Is Your Time” continues to inspire listeners to live boldly, love deeply, and trust God with every step of their journey.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
