Joy in the Morning, Wells' third album and first for Capitol Records/CCMG, follows 2021's Citizen of Heaven (Live), which received a GRAMMY nomination for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album. He also received GRAMMY and NAACP Image Awards nominations for "Hold Us Together (Hope Mix)," his 2021 duet with H.E.R. On Joy in the Morning, Wells pushes the limits of what people might expect from him, combining sonically adventurous music with a deep, abiding message.
"I've come to view my music as an entrance not as an escape -- it's where you get to step in and consider your life," explains Tauren Wells. "You can consider the pain. Consider the disappointments. Consider the dreams. And now, all of a sudden, you have a soundtrack that helps sooth the wounds or awaken the dreamer. It's not about getting out of your life. It's about getting more out of your life."
Coming off of his last full Studio Project, "Citizen Of Heaven", Tauren continues to take the first step into the future of CCM. Much like "COH", you will be hearing not just Tauren's voice. Collab's with names such as CHH artists, Aaron Cole, and Jon Keith. Also, Tiffany Hudson of Elevation Worship. All together, the project should be a staple for CCM history.
Click here to add a video. Click to add lyrics if not listed.
The Heartbeat of Joy| Posted June 12, 2022 What You Need to Know
In the past few years, pop artist Tauren Wells has become a staple in Christian music (And I know I'm not the only one who feels this way). Tauren's impact on the genre has been huge. He's received 10 GRAMMY® Award nominations and six GMA Dove Awards. Not to mention he's toured with the likes of pop icons Mariah Carey and Lionel Richie. With hit songs like "Known," "Hills and Valleys," and "Famous For (I Believe)," Tauren has developed a unique sound that allows listeners to jam out while simultaneously being infused with the message of Jesus.
Recently, Tauren has had success applying his talent for choreographed dance and stage presence to upbeat melodies, as reflected on his newest album, Joy In The Morning, and accompanying music videos. The 10-track record features guest appearances and beyond that, showcases a fresh side of the artist that fans are sure to enjoy.
What It Sounds Like
The electronic beats carried through this record are what typically turns me away from pop music, to begin with. But I had a different experience with Joy In The Morning. Contrary to my original belief, those sounds didn't, in fact, show up in every song (only in a few dance-inducing ones). The rest of the album was balanced by his traditional sound, consisted of incredible background vocals, and a plethora of instruments to accompany them. It's the diversity of this album that stood out the most.
The soft piano of "Empty" directly follows the strong drum beat of "Crazy About You" yet they flow into each other expertly, each proclaiming the name of Jesus in their own way. Tauren has left his mark on the music world, that's for sure. But even more than that, God has marked this album with His grace.
Spiritual/Lyrical Highlights
Watching an artist grow in their faith through music is one of the most rewarding parts of my role in the behind-the-scenes area of Christian music. When Tauren first entered the contemporary Christian music scene, he already had a solid foundation of faith, but that has exploded in proportion recently. The unwavering trust in God allows him to pen the next hit song with a focus not on fame, but on faith. I found this illustrated most clearly in "Crazy About You," when Tauren sings "He's never been mad at you/He's only been madly in love."
It's clear that he's personally experienced the love of God, because without that belief, it would be difficult to pen such a compelling phrase. Tauren's faith is a blessing to everyone who listens to his music. I hope you agree after listening to this album jam-packed with Jesus.
Best Song on the Record
As soon as I heard the chorus of "Use A Friend," my heart instantly melted and every guard I had up today fell away. The story of friendship presented through the melody was so powerful, I was overcome with emotion. I adored how descriptive the lyrics were; although they didn't replicate my life exactly, the personal touch made me connect with them all the more.
Specifically, the line "I swear/You never have to wonder if I care" hit me with a deep resonance that can be difficult to find when music is mass-produced. Tauren avoids the call of fame and is able to intimately pull on heartstrings with this song, as is evident by my gushing reaction. I highly suggest you listen to this song with your best friend, or a loved one. Tears of happiness just might be in your future when you do so.
Tauren clearly let himself go on this album, and I don't mean that in a bad way at all. I admire how he put aside his own desires and allowed God to speak through him. Creatively, I know how difficult that can be, but it's so worth it; the fruits of His influence on this music are scattered throughout the entire record. Tauren blew me away with yet another incredible record and I encourage you to listen to every track, appreciating the message and sound of each. Simply hearing His message float around me for forty minutes in the form of Tauren's creativity was a blessing and I hope, after listening, you'll feel the same way.
to add lyrics if not listed.
