Michael W. Smith is a Christian and mainstream pop success, and has made excursions into classical orchestration. But never have all those sides of his music blended as seamlessly as on Live the Life—as accessible, energetic, and varied a record as he has ever made. Christian listeners will appreciate “Missing Person,” a quest for childlike faith, and “I Know Your Name,” a stirring reminder of God’s promises. Meanwhile, “Love Me Good” is goofy, addictive pop, and “In My Arms Again”—written for the movie Titanic—swells with appropriate drama.
- 2018
- Steven Curtis Chapman
- Phillips, Craig & Dean
- Rich Mullins