Steven Curtis Chapman – the music artist Christian the most awarded – is back with a new studio album, Still (released October 14). These songs share a story of hope and a reminder of God’s faithfulness. As one of the pioneers of the music industry Christian, Chapman has done it again. Musically, Still is energetic and upbeat, while lyrically this album is powerful and encouraging. Chapman really digs into his testimony and shares songs and stories from his heart, which is clearly evident in the eloquent yet simple lyricism that each song depicts. If there was any fear in releasing Still, Chapman has nothing to fear. This album is beautiful and fans of his earlier work, with songs such as “I Will Be Here” and “Dive”, will be sure to put these new songs on repeat.
“Still,” the title track, begins with guitar strumming but builds as the song continues. This song takes the simple word, “Still,” and contains powerful truths. No matter what happens, God is always good. Musically, this song is bright and upbeat, which drives the message home. This song is a reminder of the Lord’s faithfulness in every season of life.
“Kindness” begins with a gentle piano synth and Chapmans signature vocals. With this song, Chapman urges his listeners to think about what life would be like if we practiced kindness in every situation. It’s a simple, yet extremely powerful message – one that our world needs to be reminded of again. With this song, Chapman continues to share powerful messages through expertly written music and lyrics.
Track number six, “Running After You,” continues the trend of energetic, upbeat songs on Still. This song fits into the album’s overall theme of breaking down the walls and barriers that can stand between Christians. Because of the power of Jesus’ love, we can love our neighbors and demonstrate kindness that not only makes the world a better place, but points people to Christ.
“Love Now” tells the story of a loved one dying in the first verse and Chapman reminds his listeners that “all we have is today.” The second verse focuses on the state of our world today and how “these moments here before us” are what matters most. Chapman urges his listeners to “love now” in every moment we are given. There is a certain storytelling component that Chapman’s lyricism carries that no other artist has really ever conveyed. The simple but extraordinarily timely messages presented in each song prove that Chapman really knows what he is doing and is letting the Lord work and speak through him.
“Trying to Get Back Home” is the final track on Chapman’s new release, Still. It’s a softer song, with light guitar playing and a gentle synth pad behind Chapman’s vocals, but continues to build as the song progresses. The message behind this song is about the journey of “trying to get home” and contains lyrics that will really resonate with the listener, “be kind to yourself and everyone on this long and winding road.” Ultimately, these lyrics truly encompass the message behind Still. And no matter what happens on this road called life, God is always good.
When we think about the music industry Christian, a familiar name should come to mind: Steven Curtis Chapman. With a career spanning over three decades and having paved the way for artists Christians Today, Chapman continues to show up and write music that is both musically excellent and lyrically poignant. Still is an album that represents exactly that, with a deep message of remembering the faithfulness of the Lord no matter what we go through in life. Each song on Still fits beautifully into this larger theme. Still by Steven Curtis Chapman is a must-see, so be sure to download/stream it!
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Author: Sarah Baylor
