This man changed the face of Christian music forever...
A. Wilkins | Dallas TX. | 04/20/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Great collection of Michael's best stuff. I would of course added about 3 more tracks. Best Of and Greatest Hits don't regularly include "lesser known" songs. 'Cross of Gold' is pure gold and many others are well deserving. This collection is a must for any fan of GOOD music. This is something you can listen to anytime.
I couldn't disagree more with the reviewer above. Synthesized? (spell check?) I don't think so. If you've seen him live (I doubt you have) then you would know MWS has talent and caters to almost every musical taste. And if you made music in the eighties, which he did, you're going to have synthesizers in your production. Your comment is unfounded and down-right rude.
Smitty has repeatedly recorded songs that Christians and non-believers alike have come to enjoy and become some of their favorite songs. I think "nails on a chalkboard" should be reserved for more appropriate genres.
I read your reviews of Clay Aiken and had to laugh. Your discrediting a God fearing musician that actually plays several instruments and "licking the dust of the shoes" of someone that didn't win a talent show. Do the math. I hope you give MWS another try and listen to more than just a few songs. You might find more than you bargaind for."
Timeless Songs...Amazing Songwriter
Aaron | Ohio, USA | 07/24/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"First off, yes...some of these songs scream late-80's/early 90's corny pop. Richard Marx instantly jumps to mind upon the first few seconds of the first track, but after a few listens, whether you're a fan of this kind of music or not, you really appreciate these songs.
No, Michael W. Smith has never been known for his amazing vocals *although his voice is distinguishable.* What this really shows is his strong songwriting. He along with Amy Grant pioneered the art of balancing a successful pop career along with staying a respectable Christian artist.
Although not quite as successful as Grant in the pop field, Mr. Smith did have his flash as a pop music star in the early 90's. "Place In This World" was a big hit hitting #6 on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains one of his strongest songs to date. "I Will Be Here For You" *cowritten by the amazing Diane Warren* was also a big hit hitting the top 40 and becoming a staple at adult contemporary and lite rock radio. These are the two biggest hits, but not the only worthy songs on the album. The kick-off track "Do You Dream of Me" may be seen as cheese by some, but deep down, it's a gorgeous, heart-felt ballad. "Go West Young Man" is upbeat, catchy pop at it's best.
"Friends" and "Great Is the Lord" have since become contemporary Christian favorites and are still widely sang and enjoyed years later by millions of Christians....not many 80's pop artists can say the same...well...none of them can except maybe Amy Grant.
Highly recommended. You don't have to be a Christian to appreciate him either *although it definitely helps ;)* He's a great songwriter and puts his heart and soul into his music. Probably one of my top three choices in my music collection."