When you think about the people who helped shape and form contemporary Christian music as we know it today, there are only a select few people who you immediately think of. Bill Gaither, Larry Norman, and Michael W. Smith are some that come to mind. There was one other individual who had a tremendous impact musically and spiritually on many of the artists who sing Christian music in the 1990s. He was so influential in their development as artists that they decided to dedicate an entire album to his musical legacy. That man is Andraé Crouch.
Tribute - The Songs of Andraé Crouch is a collection of some of today's most popular Christian artists singing their favorite Crouch songs. However, this is more than a mere tribute to a fine musician who has written and sung songs for many years. These are songs that are still being sung in churches and played on Christian radio today despite the fact they were written so long ago. That is the beauty of these songs-they are timeless in their message.
The artists included on this project are familiar to fans of contemporary Christian music: CeCe Winans, Michael W. Smith, Twila Paris, Bryan Duncan, Wayne Watson, The Winans, Clay Crosse, Take 6, The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir and First Call. These artists have all been touched by the musical legacy of Crouch, who was honored at last year's Doves for his lasting impact on the Christian music scene. Each artist chose the song that most impacted their life and sang it in their style.
CeCe Winans begins the project singing the classic song "Take Me Back." The message of "Take Me Back" is one that will never grow old-it should be the prayer of every Christian to have the fervor for the Lord that you had when you first asked Him into your heart. Other highlights include Michael W. Smith, who was appropriately chosen to sing one of the most recognized Crouch songs ever, "Jesus Is the Answer." Smith sings this song with such passion using that signature groggy voice. Wayne Watson's rendition of "Through It All" is another excellent song on the project.
The highlight of the project is undoubtedly the final song. What better finale for a tribute album to Andraé Crouch than an all-star choir singing perhaps his most famous song of praise, "My Tribute (To God Be The Glory)?" Gathering just about every Christian artist they could find, the project's last song features Crouch himself backed by the people who have appreciated his music for the lasting impact he has made on Christian music. You can feel the emotion of the artists as they lift up their praises to the Lord in an honoring tribute to a sincere man of God. This project is worth getting just for this song!
Andraé Crouch's effect on contemporary Christian music is more profound than anyone can imagine. It would be hard to imagine what Christian music would sound like if it was not for this innovative man of God. Tribute - The Songs of Andraé Crouch is a fitting celebration of his dedication to his art and his God.
