Search - Margaret Becker :: Immigrants Daughter

The Best From One of The Finest

Michael Janke | San Diego, CA | 07/07/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Newer Christian music fans may be surprised to know that Margaret Becker was once considered THE premier female Christian rocker. She was also the first one to make a big impact. Maggie B. debuted in 1987 with her NEVER FOR NOTHING project and followed that up in '88 with the awesome album THE RECKONING. She was immediately viewed as the best "Christian alternative" to mainstream woman rockers. What set Maggie above the fray and "knockoff" criticisms was the fact that she was a truly talented and multifaceted musician -- she could play a mean guitar and her songwriting ability was top notch. 1989 saw the release of IMMIGRANT'S DAUGHTER -- an album that was embraced by fans and critics alike. On IMMIGRANT'S DAUGHTER, Becker crafted a project that retained her rock edge but which for the first time really began to explore other musical styles that helped to better convey the personal qualities and passions of some of her lyrics. The album had its rocker moments ("I Commit," "This Is My Passion," the title track), but also, besides the obligatory ballads, had quite a few mid-tempo cuts which gave the album an overall feel that was a contrast to her very edgy THE RECKONING. The title cut is an autobiographical journey which follows the literal and spiritual path that her grandmother took as an Irish immigrant to America. "This Is My Passion" is a soul-baring prayer reflecting her struggle for holiness in the midst of constant failures. In fact, the theme of the struggle for holiness in spite of one's humanity runs through out the whole of the project. "Honesty" reflects that, telling us that "You spoke of your struggle, and you cried from your pain... God's not afraid of your honesty, He can heal your heart if you speak honestly, humble sorrow and the honest cry, He will not pass by." It is a beautifully simple and poignant song that is one of the high moments in Margaret's long career. There isn't a weak cut on this entire project. From the album cover (which is a beautiful black and white drawing of a close-up of Becker's face) to the closing cover of Curtis Mayfield's "People Get Ready," IMMIGRANT'S DAUGHTER just clicks. This project is also significant because of the fact that it was here that we saw Margaret really begin to spread her wings as an artist and move away from the female rock niche which she did well but was held back by. She would continue to have her edgy moments here and there for the next few years, but by the time she released SOUL it was a thing of her past. And though she doesn't retain her place of prominence (she once was second only in popularity to Amy Grant), Margaret has become one of the most respected songwriters and female voices in the industry. She also must rightfully be viewed as a pioneer for women in Christian music. Before Margaret, rock was a man's world. Though long time fans may debate it, for my money IMMIGRANT'S DAUGHTER is her finest work. FIVE STARS"

Becker is the Best in Christian Music!

shoutgrace | Charleston, WV United States | 06/22/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Margaret Becker voice is phenomenal, plus her musical talents are on top. So why isn't Becker one of the top performers in Christian music? Well, she should be. You're missing out on the best. This album Becker pays tribute to her Irish roots and her grandparents as she relates in the title track, 'Immigrant's Daughter.' This album was named one of the top 100 best gospel albums by CCM. She digs deep into her spiritual longing in family traditions. She accomplishes this in the passion of her songs. This can be heard in 'This is My Passion,' 'Hunger Stays,' 'I Commit' and "People Get Ready.' The music is a mixture of mellow folk rock with some bluesy overtones and a little irishness. Her work carries over into 'Falling Forward' album. Another you can't pass up. This gal can really sing! Just try one of her album and see what you're really missing. It's a wonder why she's not a BIG artist. Maybe that's a blessing in disguise. You won't be disappointed."

One of, if not, my favorite albums.

AbeStreet | Mayfield Heights, OH United States | 02/03/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"When it comes to gospel albums I tend to be a little more picky when selecting an artist to listen to than I am with other types of music. Why, I'm not sure? Probably because I like to relate to the lyrics and I like to think the performer is sincere and not trying to appeal to certain fanbase. There is no way for me to know how sincere Margaret Becker is regarding her lyrics but I sure relate to them. I find it hard to believe that, given the lyrics and the emotion she sings with, she is not sincere.



I came across this album over 10 years ago and it is as good now as it was then. It doesn't seem dated, at least not to me, as far as the music is concerned. The lyrics will never be dated. Songs like "Stay Close to Me" and "Honesty" really remind me of why I need God in my life and why I need to look to him for guidence and thank him. "I Commit" is another good song that encourages me. It's funny, just before this album came out Rod Stewart released a version of "People Get Ready" on his DOWNTOWN TRAIN album. I loved his version, with Jeff Beck on guitar, but it wasn't until I heard it on this album that I realized the religious aspects of the song. I feel like an idiot for not realizing what that song was about prior to hearing Margaret Becker sing it.



For those that enjoy modern gospel music, if you can call an album that is a decade and a half ago modern, and or have a relationship with God this album will most likely appeal to you. I also recommend checking out Susan Ashton and Helen Baylor."