Music

One woman, a 72-year-old grandmother, stunned all with her rocking drum performance on The Jennifer Hudson Show.

Musicians are a special group of people who have been blessed with the God-given gift for creating beautiful music. Now, those who have been equipped with musical skills may find they have a natural aptitude for one instrument over another. One person might find themselves drawn to the guitar, violin, or cello, while another individual may prefer the trumpet, harmonica, or trombone. 

Some may discover that they aren't meant to play an instrument at all. Instead, they may be a terrific singer or have the ability to easily craft and write songs. Whatever the case may be, those with an interest in and skills in music are bound to find something for them. 

Dorothea Taylor is a whiz on the drums. She can keep a beat and maintain a rhythm with relative ease. It's something that she has been doing for 60 years! 

In a clip posted on YouTube, Dorothea demonstrated her immense skills and talent on the drums during an appearance on The Jennifer Hudson Show. The grandmother rocks out, playing "Stay Away," a tune from the legendary grunge-era band Nirvana. 

The drummer doesn't miss a note, beating the drums right on cue, much to the studio audience's delight. Her immense skill has the studio audience hooting and hollering as Dorothea puts on a fascinating and captivating display of musical talent. 

Jennifer is also completely mesmerized by Dorothea's stunning performance, seemingly unable to take her eyes off Dorothea as she plays. 

Dorothea is amazing!

Not only does Dorothea dazzle on the drums, but she also gives Jennifer a quick lesson on the drums. Jennifer may be a Grammy Award-winning musician, but Dorothea has her beat when it comes to the drums.

Colossians 3:16: "Let the word of Christ dwell in your richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord."

In the heart of Austin, Texas, amidst the echoes of classic melodies and the whispers of legends, Trisha Yearwood and Don Henely’s mesmerizing duet of “Walkaway Joe” strikes a chord with fans as the timeless hit takes us all back to a love lost. 

The haunting melody of "Walkaway Joe" is timeless, weaving a tale of love, loss, and longing that resonates with listeners across generations. When Trisha Yearwood and Don Henley first breathed life into this ballad in 1992, little did they know it would become an instant hit, etching its place in the hearts of music lovers worldwide. 

The song's narrative, rich with imagery and emotion, tells the story of a young woman falling for the wrong guy who was blinded by charm. The boy named Joe ultimately walks away, leaving her to grapple with the bittersweet memories of their fleeting romance. With Trisha’s powerhouse vocals and Don's evocative delivery, "Walkaway Joe" transcends mere music. The song becomes a journey, a reflection of the complexities of human relationships, and a testament to the enduring power of storytelling through song. It reminds us all of a relationship we’ve lost.

Standing before an excited audience, Don Henley, a dear friend and musical comrade, bestowed upon her the symbol of her legacy, welcoming her into the revered Austin City Limits Hall of Fame. The air was pregnant with emotion as Don's words echoed the sentiments of an entire industry, acknowledging Trisha's indelible mark on the tapestry of country music.

But amidst the applause and accolades, their bond, a testament to decades of camaraderie and shared passion, truly stole the spotlight. With a humble grace, Trisha Yearwood invited Don to join her once more in a mesmerizing duet, a performance that wasn't just about the music but about the journey they had traveled together.

As their voices intertwined in the haunting melody of "Walkaway Joe," it was as though time itself stood still, weaving a tapestry of shared memories and shared dreams. For Trisha, this wasn't just a moment on stage; it was a celebration of a lifelong partnership, a tribute to the unwavering support of a dear friend.

“She only wanted love, never bargained for this

She can't help but love him for the way he is

She's only seventeen and there ain't no reasoning

So she'll ride this ride as far as it can go”

Trisha Yearwood stood tall among the legends, her name forever etched into the halls of music history alongside her longtime friend, Don Henley, whose unwavering friendship truly made this performance unforgettable.

One talented teen violinist turned in a jaw-dropping and extraordinary cover of the beloved classic hit “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You.”

Most of the music produced today and over the years is simply no good. Sure, a song and a band may be popular for a couple of years, making music that becomes a hit on pop radio and charts relatively well. But give that same tune and band a couple of years, and you’re bound to forget that it even existed. 

For the most part, music doesn’t age well or is even forgotten altogether. However, classics age like fine wine, only getting better with age. Classics would be a hit regardless of the decade they were released. Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons had a string of hits that are remembered and covered decades after they first hit the radio.

In a clip posted on YouTube, the always popular and uber-talented violinist Karolina Protsenko covered “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You.” Like every other cover the young woman puts out on the video site, it’s a dazzling and breathtaking rendition of a beloved hit.

As she plays the tune, you can’t help but hum or even sing out loud those memorable lyrics first sung by the incomparable Frankie Valli.

“You’re just too good to be true

Can’t take my eyes off of you

You’d be like heaven to touch

I wanna hold you so much”

Karolina is a talented musician who has demonstrated repeatedly that she can play anything and everything. But as she does in every clip, she genuinely seems to love performing and playing the violin. Throughout this short, 3-and-a-half-minute clip, she dances around the street, smiling and grinning as she performs.

Who knows what song the young and talented musician will play next? Whatever it is, it’s guaranteed to be worth several listens!

Colossians 3:16 “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”

Check out this wonderful performance by a men’s choir singing the song ‘Wouldn’t It Be Nice’ by the well-known band The Beach Boys.

“Wouldn't it be nice if we were older? 

Then we wouldn't have to wait so long

And wouldn't it be nice to live together

In the kind of world where we belong?”

What an excellent rendition of this popular song by one of the biggest bands of the 50s and 60s! The singers in the video are part of the barbershop group known as Parkside Harmony from Hershey, PA. They are performing live at the Barbershop Harmony Society's 2024 Midwinter Convention in New York City, which happens every year. 

In the video, you can see that the large choir group is full of talented men singing ‘Wouldn’t It Be Nice’ in different parts. This style is called barbershop harmony which is unaccompanied vocal music characterized by consonant four-part chords for every melody note. 

The melody is consistently sung by the lead​ which is the second tenor part. The first tenor ​​harmonizes above the melody, the bass sings the lowest harmonizing notes, and the baritone completes the chord. Together, the band makes a beautiful type of music. 

The song ‘Wouldn’t It Be Nice,’ was first released by The Beach Boys on May 14, 1966, as the opening track on their album Pet Sounds. The song eventually peaked at No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 and has become an enduring classic all its own. The lyrics tell of a budding romance between two lovers who long for a little more time together.

We hope you enjoyed listening to this barbershop group performance of ‘Wouldn’t It Be Nice’ and it put a smile on your face today!

“​​Saying, I will declare your name to my brothers, in the middle of the church will I sing praise to you.” - Hebrews 2:12

The legendary Dolly Parton has teamed up with rapper Pitbull for an electrifying and stunning reimagining of her classic tune “9 to 5.”

Dolly is a Hollywood icon. She has experienced an illustrious career that has spanned decades. Over the years, Dolly has proven repeatedly she is a multi-talented entertainer. She has made many appearances on the big screen and television and has had several chart-topping, legendary hit songs. In her late 70s, Dolly has shown no signs of slowing down. 

One of the songs and films that immediately comes to mind when thinking of Dolly Parton is “9 to 5.” The classic 1980 film stars Dolly, Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin as three women working in an office fighting for equality while battling their sexist boss. Of course, Dolly sang the film’s title song, which was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song.

Since its release more than 40 years ago, Dolly’s catchy, upbeat and energetic “9 to 5” tune has become a classic. In a clip posted on YouTube, Dolly partnered with Pitbull on his song “Powerful Women.”

In the song, Dolly belts out the memorable and toe-tapping “9 to 5” chorus. 

“Workin nine to five

What a way to make a livin’

Barely, gettin’ by

It’s all talkin’ and no givin’”

Even if you’re not a big Dolly Parton or Pitbull fan, this song is so much fun. It’s hard to listen to this song and not move your foot along to the beat. How can you not enjoy this upbeat and catchy song? 

Once again, even in her late 70s, Dolly Parton has proven that she still has it. She is a legendary entertainer who constantly puts out quality work when it would be much easier to slow down and take things easy.

Colossians 3:16 “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”

A father and his little girl showed off their impressive, quick-footed dance moves with their perfect lip-sync of Kenny Loggins’ hit “Footloose.”

As all parents know, children are only little for a short, brief time. Childhood is a precious period in a child’s and a parent’s life that must be treasured and cherished. Blink, and it’s over. Children grow up entirely too fast. One minute, those children are learning how to walk and talk. Next, they are graduating from high school and moving out on their own. 

That’s why parents finding time and activities to bond and create with their children is so important. Whatever the kid enjoys doing, go do that with them, especially when they ask you to be involved. Parents also know there will come a time – the teenage years – when kids want nothing to do with mom and dad. 

One father has found a unique way to spend time with his daughter. Ben and Zara are a father-daughter team who create and post videos of them lip-syncing and dancing to some of the most memorable, iconic songs in music history.

In one of their latest videos, Ben and Zara dance and pretend to sing Kenny Loggins’ hit from the 1980s, “Footloose.” Dressed as construction workers, Ben and Zara rock out to the beloved song. Then, they are instantly transported to a new location, wearing clothes that Kevin Bacon’s character would have worn in the film “Footloose.”

“So now I gotta cut loose 

Footloose

Kick off the Sunday shoes

Please, Louise”

While the clip is short, similar to the song, Ben and Zara’s dancing and “singing” are infectious. Their moves and energy are enough to make you act like Kevin Bacon’s character in the film and get up and dance.

Proverbs 22:6 “If a child is trained up in the right way, even when he is old he will not be turned away from it.”

This is an amazing work of art and creativity. Check on Lindsey Stirling and Gardiner Brothers' dazzling performance on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. 

Lindsey is an incredible violinist, dancer, and performer. She stands up front confidently in her edgy all-black outfit. She and the boys are standing on the Hollywood stars in LA. Behind her, the Gardiner Brothers begin Irish step dancing with Lindsey as she plays the violin. They switch positions as she goes to the back, and they are in unison with their steps and routine. It is mesmerizing and a group of high-level talent.

As they film this routine, a crowd of pedestrians gather to join in by viewing the fun. The trio combines hip hop, classical, and tap in a blend of modern dance meets classical music. It is stunning to see the inventive mindset of this group to draw a young audience to a more traditional instrument. 

You do not hear violin on most top hit songs, but Lindsey is taking the social media world by storm. She is always growing in popularity and exposing the next generation to timeless classical pieces in a culturally exciting way. She is brilliant. The elements of entertainment, precision, and pure happiness are shown in this clip. Their performance leads us to want to see even more. 

The Bible might be an older book, but the message is always perfect and active in every generation. God has spoken clearly to us. Just like Lindsey has learned to bring the message of her music in a creative way to the culture, may we be reminded to share our faith and the gospel in new ways while standing on eternal truth to reach the world around us.

“But the plans of the Lord stand firm forever, the purposes of his heart through all generations.” Psalm 33:11

Celtic Thunder offers up a stunning cover of Dan + Shay’s romantic song, “From the Ground Up.” It’s a visual and auditory delight! Check out the video!

Written by Dan Smyers, Shay Mooney, and Chris DeStefano, “From the Ground Up” was recorded in 2015 and released on February 5, 2016. The song was inspired by Dan and Shay’s grandparents and tells the story of finding true love and building a life with that person.  

The song made Brides list of “85 Incredible First Dance Songs for Your Wedding” in their October 2023 issue. Reminiscent of Vince Gill’s “Look at Us” released in 1991, Dan + Shay’s song pays tribute to those who have stuck with one another—deeply loved and honored one another—through thick and thin.

Dan + Shay’s country song is a gem, as is Celtic Thunder’s cover!

There are ten musicians positioned across the blue-and-purple, stone-look stage. Orange beams shine on them and mimic a sunset. A video plays in an oval frame behind the performers. It features a couple walking the beach alone and with children, depicting the growth of a family over the years. 

Celtic Thunder is live in Dublin for this performance. The song’s lyrics are printed in white against a green band and appear at the bottom of the video; the font is quintessentially Irish. Two guitarists wear kilts and boots, and the ladies are dressed in formal gowns; they play the harp and violin. There is a drummer, two gents on pianos, one man on the mandolin, and the two singers; they also play guitars. There are extra instruments available as well, a testament to the talent of Celtic Thunder’s band members. 

All together, they create a beautiful rendition of Dan + Shay’s inspiring song! While the drummer appears pretty serious as he brushes his snares and cymbals, the singers smile as they deliver the sweet story of lifelong partners. If you have a grown daughter, you might be wishing for a guy like one of them for her!

At 2:45, the taller singer takes the lead, and the two harmonize through a series of “whoas,” and it’s super pretty.  

Great lyrics, a lovely backdrop, and stellar musicians! This is one to remember, not just on wedding days. No, it’s one to play on any old day!   

“However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.” Ephesians 5:33

An incredibly talented teenage violinist, Karolina Protsenko, turned in a terrific performance, covering the late Toby Keith’s classic “As Good as I Once Was.”

No one knows how much time they’ve been given on this Earth. Chances are that it's shorter than we anticipate. Everyone wants to believe that they will experience a long life. But sadly, that’s not always the case. Life is so unpredictable that a loved one could be here one moment and then gone the next. 

In early February 2023, country singer-songwriter Toby Keith passed away at 62. His death came after he battled stomach cancer for several years. His death sent shockwaves through country music and all of entertainment. His death served as another reminder that, at some point, we’ll all experience death. 

In a clip posted on YouTube, Karolina played “one of her favorite songs of his,” “As Good as I Once Was,” on her violin in tribute to the late musician. 

While donning a cowboy hat, Karolina beautifully plucks her violin, playing the familiar and beloved country tune.

“I ain’t as good as I once was

My how the years have flown 

But there was a time, back in my prime

When I could really hold my own”

Toby’s song perfectly captures what everyone feels and experiences as we age. As we slowly get older, and spend more time on this Earth, we soon realize that we can’t do everything as well as we could. We are no longer children, basking in our youth. Things take more time to complete, reflexes may be a little slower, eyesight may diminish and the hair on your head may have started to disappear. 

But one thing that we can count on, no matter if we’re 5 or 95, is Christ’s love and faithfulness. It will never change. He is the same yesterday, today, tomorrow and 10, 20 and 100 years from now. 

2 Corinthians 4:16 “For which cause we do not give way to weariness; but though our outer man is getting feebler, our inner man is made new day by day.”

As wedding season 2024 approaches, brides everywhere will be considering first songs, and the beautiful love song titled “Nothing New (I Do)” by Brandon Lake and friends deserves serious consideration.

In this gorgeous, romantic video, real-life husband and wife Brandon and Brittany Lake give viewers a glimpse of their love. Married on February 5, 2011, the couple has been married for just over thirteen years. 

The song, written by Brandon Lake, Mia Fieldes, Hank Bentley, Cody Carnes, and Jacob Sooter, is performed here by Brandon, and Brittany sings along during choruses. 

Filmed in black and white, the video depicts the couple’s wedding day. We see two dresses hung and worn by Mrs. Lake during the video. One is a white peasant dress with puffy sleeves; she wears a wreath of delicate flowers in her hair with that dress. The other is a strapless dress with a lace corset. With this gown, Brittany wears her long locks in an ornate clip. She looks stunning in both.

Brandon, dressed primarily in a black suit coat, plays and sings at the piano. At other times, he wears a casual, loose, light-colored shirt as he and his bride dance together. White candles light the room, and the couple embraces, smiles, and whispers secrets to one another. They are a vision of what married love should be.

Here are four lines from the chorus of “Nothing New (I Do):”

From the dawn to the dusk of my days

From the depths of my soul

And with all of my strength

Here is my heart in just one phrase      

Brandon and Brittany have three sons. They are Beau, Michael Blaise, and Banner Brave. 

In celebration of the couple’s tenth anniversary, Brandon released Almond Eyes. Almond Eyes is the first extended play by the singer, songwriter, guitarist, and worship pastor. He released the EP on February 5, 2021, without any advance marketing or promotion to ensure it came as an anniversary surprise for Brittany. 

Marriage is an incredible gift from God. May we all treasure and protect it just as Brandon and Brittany Lake appear to! 

“Wives, in the same way submit yourselves to your own husbands so that, if any of them do not believe the word, they may be won over without words by the behavior of their wives,” 1 Peter 3:1

A musically gifted young man, who looks similar to Elvis Presley, turned in a stirring and terrific rendition of Olivia Newton-John’s beloved classic “Hopelessly Devoted to You.”

Love has been a topic that has kept songwriters and singers busy and employed for hundreds of years. Love is a topic that has been mined heavily. Nearly every single angle possible about the subject of love has been covered repeatedly. Whatever your feelings toward or about love, there is bound to be a song or several to match your current mood. 

Despite the plethora of love songs, the public’s infatuation with tunes about love songs has not been diminished. Love songs of every genre and style can be heard and found on the radio, Spotify and Apple Music. There is no way to avoid love songs, including Olivia Newton-John’s 1978 classic, “Hopelessly Devoted to You.”

In a clip posted on YouTube, Elliot James Reay sings the song originally performed by the late musician and actress. His stunningly unique voice, which sounds like a throwback to the 50s and 60s, works perfectly with the song’s lyrics about endless devotion. 

“Guess mine is not the first heart broken

My eyes are not the first to cry

I’m not the first to know

There’s just no getting over you”

Of course, one of the reasons the song is so beloved is because it’s from a memorable film. “Hopelessly Devoted to You” comes from a scene in the iconic musical “Grease.” In the film, Olivia, who plays Sandy, sings the track as she wanders outside while thinking about the objection of her affection, Danny, played by John Travolta.

“Hopelessly Devoted to You” is a track that has been covered hundreds of times since its release in the 1970s, and it will likely continue to be performed by other musicians. 

Ephesians 5:19 “Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;”

Don’t miss Taylor Davis’ mesmerizing violin performance of ‘Rewrite the Stars from the film, ‘The Greatest Showman.’ In the heavenly realm where music transcends mere notes and melodies, violin maestro Taylor Davis reigns supreme, weaving sonic tapestries that enrapture the soul. Her latest enchantment? A mesmerizing rendition of 'Rewrite the Stars' from 'The Greatest Showman', a performance that not only captivates but transcends the very essence of musical expression.

In "The Greatest Showman," the song "Rewrite the Stars" becomes a poignant beacon of hope and love when Philip, played by Zac Efron, serenades Anne, portrayed by Zendaya. As Philip and Anne dance gracefully amidst the stars, their voices intertwine, echoing the longing and determination to rewrite their fate. This heartfelt moment became a symbol of resilience and the unyielding power of love to overcome adversity. We all didn’t think anything could top their performance until Taylor used the mere power of her strings to create a heavenly melody! 

As the first delicate strains of Taylor’s violin caress the air, one is immediately transported into a world where dreams are realized, and hearts dance in harmony. Taylor’s' fingers dance with precision across the strings. Each note a testament to her unparalleled mastery of the instrument. With every bow stroke, she breathes life into the music, infusing it with emotion and vitality. 

What truly sets Taylor apart is her ability to evoke a myriad of emotions with her music. In her rendition of 'Rewrite the Stars', she effortlessly navigates the delicate balance between longing and hope, her violin singing with a poignant sincerity that resonates deep within the listener's soul. With each crescendo, she builds tension and anticipation, culminating in a crescendo that leaves one breathless with wonder. 

But it's not just Taylor's technical prowess that makes her performance so spellbinding—it's the passion and sincerity she pours into every note. With each flicker of her bow, she invites the audience to join her on a journey of self-discovery and redemption, where the impossible becomes possible and love knows no bounds.

As the final notes fade into the ether, one is left spellbound by the sheer beauty of Taylor's performance. In a world filled with chaos and uncertainty, her music serves as a beacon of light, guiding us through the darkness and reminding us of the power of art to transcend the ordinary. It’s performances like Taylor’s that cause my heart to smile as I whisper a prayer of gratitude to the Lord for the gift of music. 

We hope you enjoyed this breathtaking performance, and it blessed your soul! 

"Praise him with the sounding of the trumpet, praise him with the harp and lyre, praise him with timbrel and dancing, praise him with the strings and pipe, praise him with the clash of cymbals, praise him with resounding cymbals,” Psalm 130:3-5. 

Gardiner Brothers’ Jaw-Dropping Dance Routine To Usher’s “Yeah”

If you liked Usher’s performance of his hit “Yeah” at the 2024 football halftime show, you will love the Gardiner Brothers’ jaw-dropping dance routine to the song. The brothers are award-winning dancers, and they are phenomenal!

While 8-time Grammy winner Usher and his friends performed for approximately 13 minutes during the 2024 half-time show in Las Vegas on February 11, the Gardiner Brothers dance video is under one minute. However, the American born Irish dancers have won over 40 major Irish dancing titles, and their short Instagram video is flawless!

Michael and Matthew Gardiner may look like twins, because they are incredibly in sync. However, they are not. Michael was born in 1995, and Matthew was born in 1999. Both were born in Denver, Colorado, to Irish parents, but they’ve been living in Galway, Ireland, since 2006.

Their routine would be tremendously difficult for a single person to accomplish well, but for a pair to master the moves and perform them with perfect uniformity and timing—that’s a feat! Michael and Matthew’s feet deliver!

From the gestures impeccably placed throughout the performance to the intentional mouthing of certain words, each action is designed to contribute to the overall routine. Their footwork hits the beats and the boards precisely each time, and their jumps are executed seemingly without effort. It’s as if they are wearing mini pogo sticks on their shoes. They reach great heights! 

In their sunglasses and letter jackets, they are physically quite similar, but their moves are identically matched. While only one brother leaps over the other at the start of the performance, the rest of the choreographed dance has the two mirror one another.    

The Gardiner Brothers perform all over the globe, with the goal of pushing “the limits of Irish dancing, showing how versatile, modern and athletic it has become” and striving for “perfection.” 

Well done, Gardiner Brothers! 

Usher has now performed at two Super Bowls; they were the 2011 and 2024 half-time shows. If he is slated for a third, one never knows. He might invite Michael and Matthew to join him for the number three!  

“Then young women will dance and be glad, young men and old as well. I will turn their mourning into gladness; I will give them comfort and joy instead of sorrow.” Jeremiah 31:13

A delightful a cappella cover of ‘Take It Easy’ by the Eagles will sure to have you humming the tune! In a mesmerizing display of musical prowess, The Virginia Gentlemen from the University of Virginia have once again captivated audiences with their delightful rendition of 'Take It Easy' by The Eagles.

 Clad in their signature bow ties, black blazers, and white pants, these talented gentlemen took to the stage in a performance that was nothing short of spectacular. With their harmonious voices blending seamlessly together, they transported listeners back to the golden era of the song, infusing it with a fresh energy and charm that left the audience spellbound!

Listening to 'Take It Easy' performed as a cappella is a truly unique experience that elevates the timeless classic to new heights. Stripped of instrumental accompaniment, the focus shifts entirely to the rich harmonies and vocal dynamics of the Virginia Gentlemen, allowing the soulful country essence of the song to shine through in its purest form. 

Each vocal layer adds depth and texture, creating a captivating auditory tapestry that draws listeners in and holds them spellbound. The absence of instruments highlights the raw emotion and sheer talent of these incredible gentlemanly singers, transforming the familiar melody into a breathtaking vocal masterpiece. Hearing 'Take It Easy' as a cappella is not just a musical experience; it's a journey that celebrates the power and versatility of the human voice, leaving a wild impression on all who have the privilege of listening.

Experiencing the incredible performance of 'Take It Easy' by The Virginia Gentlemen as a cappella serves as a powerful reminder of the profound impact of music on our lives. As we revel in the harmonious melodies and soul-stirring vocals, we are reminded of the beauty and wonder of the gift of music bestowed upon us by our Creator God.

 Music has the remarkable ability to break boundaries, uplift spirits, and unite hearts in a shared celebration of joy and harmony. Amid life's challenges and uncertainties, we are blessed to find solace and inspiration in the timeless melodies, and these melodies often echo the divine presence of Christ within us. If we allow it, it can fill our lives with the transcendent beauty of music and the boundless grace of God. Truly, we are blessed to have music as a gift from God, a beacon of light that illuminates our path and fills our hearts with gratitude and joy.

“Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song,” Psalm 95:1-2. 

This father and daughter duo sing so well together.

Adrian and Emma-Jean Galliard of Johannesburg perform regularly at corporate and charity events as well as host soirees at their home. Emma-Jean is just 15 years old but she is beyond her years with her musical talent. She has a strong voice that pairs well with her dads. 

The two sing different genres of music, from classical to popular songs. They even have a few originals. 

On their YouTube channel, you can find songs such as ‘When I Fall In Love,’ ‘From a Distance,’ and ‘Don’t Cry For Me Argentina.’ In this video, they are singing ‘Up Where We Belong.’ 

‘Up Where We Belong’ was first recorded by Joe Cocker and Jennifer Warnes for the 1982 movie, An Officer and a Gentleman. Then, in 1984, BeBe and CeCe Winans recorded a religious variation of the song.  

“Love lift us up where we belong

Where the eagles cry

On a mountain high

Love lift us up where we belong”

From just this one video you can already tell that Emma-Jean will have a long career in music. So many in the comments love the music they make together. One commenter says, “Beautiful voices harmonize together so good. Beautiful song. Love does make a big difference in lives of people and animals. God bless you.!” and another, “You blend your voices so well together - like it was meant to be! Emma-Jean is growing up before our very eyes and papa Adrian is the perfect accompaniment to complete this pairing of vocal charm! Well done as always, you two! And thanks for sharing and touching my heart yet again!”

It is lovely that a father and daughter have music in common and can work to make a career out of it using their natural talents. 

“Children's children are the crown of old men; and the glory of children are their fathers.” Proverbs 17:6

The talented children who make up the PS22 Chorus turned in an enchanting performance of the beloved folk song “Shenandoah” that will leave you in awe.

There are some songs that no matter how many times you’ve heard them, you still love every time and never become tired of them. That’s how you can tell if a song is an actual classic – whether it has stood the test of time. Classic tunes cover all genres, musicians, styles and tastes. The many classic songs go from patriotic to religious to more of a secular variety. 

Classic songs all also have a bit of nostalgia and meaning attached to them. Those lyrics and melodies make us feel something from the moments of the tune’s opening notes. Whether it’s “Amazing Grace,” “Yankee Doodle” or “I Want to Hold Your Hand” by The Beatles, you’ll immediately feel something when those beloved songs are played or performed. 

In a clip posted on YouTube, the PS22 Chorus, in another outstanding performance, sang a song many would consider a classic – “Shenandoah.” The kids’ beautiful vocal delivery of the memorable lyrics is spot-on, creating a most enjoyable listening experience.

“Oh Shenandoah
I long to see you
Away you rolling river
Oh Shenandoah”

The children sound terrific as they perfectly blend their voices. Also, they sing with such emotion and feeling, expressing themselves as they perform the old folk song. Most of the children in the chorus, as they sing the lyrics, even add hand motions to accompany the words. 

Right before the clip ends, soon after the children finish singing, the young man playing the piano perfectly expresses what most will likely feel when listening to the kids singing “Shenandoah.” He says, “Wowzah,” while looking at the camera.

Colossians 3:16 “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”

This music video of ‘Checking In’ by for King + Country and Lee Brice begins with someone using a rotary telephone to make a phone call. Throughout the rest of the video, you can see different versions of telephones, including cell phones. But when you read the lyrics you can tell this is quite an emotional song. 

‘Checking In’ is a song about the emotions that someone can feel after a loved one passes away. In the case of this song, it is a son missing his father. The father first leaves the son a voicemail message to check in with him. 

After the father’s death, the son continues to listen to the message and even responds to it with updates. The song also talks about how much he misses him and how it is without him there. 

“There's no telling how many times I've let that message play
He's been gone a while but it still feels like yesterday
I even call him back sometimes
Wishing he'd pick up again”

‘Checking In’ is a beautiful song about loss, and how we can miss someone no longer here. Even if we know that they are in a much better place, it is missing the everyday that can be difficult to process. And when someone leaves us, all we want is to be able to check in with them, like before. 

The song is from the upcoming soundtrack for the movie, Unsung Hero, which comes out in April. The movie follows the Smallbone family who moves to the United States from Australia in the 1990s. The movie follows Rebecca, whose stage name is Rebecca St. James, and her brothers Joel and Luke Smallbone who make up for King and Country, as they become Christian recording artists.  

“But as it is written, Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God has prepared for them that love him.” -  1 Corinthians 2:9

One young man put together an epic and stunning lip-sync video to one of Queen’s most beloved and classic tunes, “Bohemian Rhapsody.”

Some bands and songs are so iconic that even attempting to cover or do anything with them is essentially setting yourself up for failure. Everyone is incredibly familiar with songs from The Beatles, Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, Simon and Garfunkel, Bob Dylan and others. One slight slip-up or flubbed lyric, and everyone will be able to point out the mistake instantly. 

Queen, the legendary English rock band from the 1970s and 80s, produced a string of hits that have since become classics. A few of those timeless tunes are “Another One Bites the Dust,” “You’re My Best Friend,” and “Under Pressure.” However, without question, the song most closely associated with Queen is their 1975 song “Bohemian Rhapsody.” It’s so unique and unlike anything you’ve ever heard before or since. 

Well, in a clip posted on Instagram, one man put together a clip of him lip-syncing “Bohemian Rhapsody.” It’s such a simple but incredibly creative and entertaining clip. It consists of him lip-syncing into a bathroom mirror, and that’s it. 

The portion of the song he lip-syncs is, of course, the segment everyone knows. It’s the section where the band members sing at a rapid-fire pace. But to pull it off, to make it appear that other people are singing with him, the young man pulls and moves the mirror. It catches different angles, making it appear to viewers that multiple people are singing along with him.

The precision and timing involved in creating such a clip is mind-boggling. If he is too fast or slow with his movements, the entire video doesn’t work, and the illusion is destroyed. 

What a fantastic show of talent and timing! 

He must really enjoy the musical stylings of Queen or at least “Bohemian Rhapsody” to know the song that well!

Psalm 105:2 “Let your voice be sounding in songs and melody; let all your thoughts be of the wonder of his works.”

A 5-year-old young man showed off his amazing and awe-inspiring musical talent on the piano by playing a piece from Mozart.

God has blessed all with skills, talents and gifts. Those will differ from person to person. As no two people are 100 percent, no two people have been given the same abilities and talents. Some may be skilled in public speaking. Others may have a natural aptitude for woodworking. Still, other individuals may have an unexplained musical ability. 

How we choose to use those gifts is ultimately up to us. But God has a will and a plan for everyone’s life. Our gifts and talents are intended to bring glory and honor to His name. But also to fulfill His will for our lives. 

A video posted on Instagram shows one young man, a musical prodigy, expertly tickling the ivories in front of an adoring crowd. His hands move up, down and back and forth with rapid-fire speed as he plays one of Mozart’s works. 

To see someone so young play a piano that well is incredible. It’s captivating to watch his hands dance around on the keys and listen to the sound he produces. 

The young man wowing on the piano is Alberto Cartuccia Cingolani, according to the video’s caption. The caption adds that while the child has been blessed with talent, his dazzling performance is not solely the product of natural ability. It required the young man to spend countless hours sitting at and practicing on the large musical instrument.

That’s another point about skills, talents and abilities. Yes, people may have areas they excel in naturally, but talent will only take you so far. Furthering those gifts requires work. God expects us to spend the time necessary to develop the talents he has blessed us with to reach our full potential. 

1 Peter 4:10 “As each has received a gift, employ it in serving one another, as good managers of the grace of God in its various forms.”

This Barbershop Quartet may be young but they have talent as you can see from this YouTube video. 

Performing ‘Blue Moon of Kentucky’ at the 2024 Next Generation Barbershop Junior Varsity Quartet Contest through the Barbershop Harmony Society, the young group, Blue 4 U, has the a cappella voices and perfect facial expressions to impress an audience. 

The Barbershop Harmony Society provides programs and resources in music education, publishing, performance, and community outreach. This includes this contest where quartets under the age of 18 can complete with their Barbershop Harmony music. 

Barbershop music has its beginnings among young African American men as early as the 1880s. The music was also very popular between 1900 and 1919. You can sometimes see modern quartets dressed up in the boaters and vertically striped vests that were used at the time. 

‘Blue Moon of Kentucky’ is a waltz written in 1945 by Bill Monroe, a bluegrass musician. It was then recorded by his band, the Blue Grass Boys. The song has also been recorded by artists such as Elvis Presley and Paul McCartney. ‘Blue Moon of Kentucky’ is also the official bluegrass song of Kentucky. 

“Blue moon of Kentucky, keep on shining
Shine on the one that's gone and proved untrue
Blue moon of Kentucky, keep on shining
Shine on the one that's gone and left me blue”

The tone of the music of the version of ‘Blue Moon of Kentucky’ recorded by Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys is a little different than the Barbershop version done by Blue 4 U, but both versions bring life to the song, and you can see why it is so popular. 

“What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also.” - 1 Corinthians 14:15