It’s no secret that Danny Gokey can sing. From his earliest days on “American Idol,” he was born to be a superstar. Ever since he placed third on Season 8 of “Idol,” winning the hearts of viewers with his story of perseverance after the tragic passing of his first wife, Gokey has been using his incredible voice to point people to Jesus.
While he’s always been vocal about his faith, it’s taken him some time to pinpoint his artistic voice. Following his introduction on the leading televised vocal competition, the charismatic singer signed his first record deal with a country label. While his debut LP, “My Best Days,” featured inspirational faire and his undeniable range, it wasn’t until the Wisconsin native found a home at a Christian label and released 2014’s “Hope In Front of Me” that he realized his true calling.
A decade later, Gokey remains faithful to that call, recording music that unabashedly proclaims his trust in God on albums like his latest effort, “Jesus People.” Over the past 10 years, however, the father of four has slowly evolved into one of the most versatile artists in all of Christian music.
With its rich tapestry of sights, sounds and textures, “Jesus People” is Gokey’s most diverse offering to date as he melds his foundational pop with bursts of colorful Latin, hints of soulful Gospel and glimpses of smooth R&B.
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“I believe there is something musically and inspirationally for everyone on this album — it’s full of hope and encouragement that I think we can all use right now. For the most part, my music represents how I grew up and the culture of the United States — our melting pot. Growing up, I listened to Christian music, Gospel music, country music, hip-hop music and Spanish music. It was all a smorgasbord. If anyone knows me, they know I love diversity and differences, and now more than ever, we need to come together despite our differences,” Gokey explains of his intentions behind the project. “On this new album, musically, I got to explore some new things and cross some genre borders. I’m excited for listeners to hear the collaborations with the special guests featured on the project, including Gospel, Latin, and even a little rap.”
The standout collaborations found on “Jesus People” include female rapper Angie Rose on R&B-pop selection “Do For Love,” acclaimed Gospel riser Koryn Hawthorne on moving ballad “We All Need Jesus” and celebrated artist Christine D’Clario on the Spanish version of “We All Need Jesus,” “Cristo Es Necesario.”
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Opening the album with “Make A Difference,” a pop anthem about being the hands and feet of Jesus, the four-time K-LOVE Fan Award winner sets the tone for the collection with something of a personal mission statement. In addition to underscoring the impact a life whole-heartedly committed to Christ can make, echoed again in the daring title-cut, other lyrical themes that surface on “Jesus People” include standing up for what you believe in, standing in faith for breakthrough and standing firm when life’s inevitable storms come.
Songs like “Stay Strong” encourage listeners to not lose heart as they continue to put their trust in a Savior capable of the miraculous. Meanwhile, vibrant Latin-flavored tracks like “Agradecido,” which means “grateful,” express Gokey’s thankfulness for the beautiful life he’s created on the other side of heartbreak.
Perhaps it’s his personal story that makes these songs so believable, or maybe it’s the way Gokey visibly walks out his values; but somehow when he sings, you start to feel like breakthrough is possible in your own life. It’s almost as if Gokey is the friend standing in the gap for the listener, possessing enough faith for all of us.
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The “Tell Your Heart To Beat Again” singer had a hand in writing all 12 tracks that comprise “Jesus People,” allowing his lyrical voice to become the cohesive thread that weaves together the array of genres he explores. Meanwhile, his vocal prowess proves he’s more than capable of playing in any sonic sandbox. His range feels limitless; his tone flawless. He may have discovered a comfortable, welcoming place in Christian music years ago, but his most recent record reveals the truth that’s been present every step of the way: Gokey’s voice is uniquely adorned with a rare gift few possess — the ability to sing literally anything.
“Jesus People” cements Gokey’s status as the family man he is offstage — a generous husband, father and believer with a heart for giving back — and the world-class vocalist he’s been since America first fell in love with the sincere widower. Fans have been rooting for him from day one; and “Jesus People” gives them ample reason to uphold their loyalty to Team Gokey.
