:)
Posted May 18, 2010
By LauraCC,
Wow, a band older than me that still survives to this day. There must be something to
Newsong that other groups are lacking. They boast a staggering 15 prior releases, 20 #1
songs, and a huge annual tour that outshines even some secular music tours. They even
scored a Christmas movie based on their A/C holiday tearjerker, “The Christmas Shoes”.
Now, right about now, I’d be shaking my head in amazed disbelief, asking, “how does
this all happen???” But I think you and I already know the answer to that question.
This album marks the return of singer Russ Lee, who left initially in 2000 to embark
upon a solo career. But he's by no means a prodigal " 'song", as he used his absence
from the band to network, fellowship, evangelize, and support his wife in her battle with
cancer. It's also being released on the band's 7th (and band-made) label, His Honor
Music. It's clear they're extremely committed to their work. They're even giving away a
free copy with every copy you buy, for you to give to a friend.
The songs on Give Yourself Away have a wide range of themes. From the Creator-
praising "Too Wonderful" to the encouragement of "God Hears"; from the "they-make-it-
sound-so-easy" "Give Yourself Away" to the reminder to get right with God before Jesus
comes in "Magnet"; it's easy to see why Newsong's music continues to reverberate and
resonate even after 28 years. They speak to people in every situation, every area of their
lives. And when was the last time you had a preacher's speech stuck on "loop" in your
head? Outside contributors to this album include Matthew West, who seems to have his
hand in many projects. He's one of my favorite lyricists.
One song on this album that I predict will have mainstream airplay, besides "Every Child
(Deserves A Home)", is "First Day On Earth". It's a beautiful love letter from a father to
his new baby, and as you're probably aware, radio eats this kind of song up. Even the
mention of God in this song probably won't deter non-Christian listeners.
Somehow I don't think Newsong knew just how prophetic they were in choosing that
particular name. Because it seems to me that their music will never grow old. Whether
you've been a fan for years or, like me, have a couple of favorite songs, you'll want to
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