The Meaning Behind The Song: Above All by Michael W. Smith
There are certain songs that resonate with people on a deeper level, touching their hearts and souls in a way that only music can. One such song is “Above All” by Michael W. Smith. This powerful ballad has been a staple in Christian music since its debut in 2000, leading many to wonder about its meaning and significance. In this article, we will explore the story behind the song and what it means to Christians around the world.
The Story Behind the Song
The story behind “Above All” begins with Lenny LeBlanc, a music industry veteran who wrote the song in the 1990s. LeBlanc was inspired by the Apostle Paul’s words in Philippians 2:9-11, which say, “Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”
LeBlanc shared his song with Paul Baloche, another accomplished Christian songwriter, who helped finalize the lyrics. Baloche then passed the song along to Michael W. Smith, who produced and recorded it for his album “Worship” in 2001. Smith’s version of “Above All” quickly became a hit, earning him a Dove Award for Worship Song of the Year.
The song’s success is a testament to its ability to move listeners with its heartfelt message.
The Meaning of the Song
“At the heart of ‘Above All’ is the belief that Jesus is above all else,” Smith has said about the song. “He is the highest of kings and the greatest of all who have walked the earth. And yet, He humbled Himself to die on the cross for our sins.”
The song’s lyrics explore this theme, proclaiming that even though Jesus is high and lifted up, He still came to earth to rescue and redeem us:
“Above all powers, above all kings
Above all nature and all created things
Above all wisdom and all the ways of man
You were here before the world began”
The chorus drives this point home:
“Crucified, laid behind a stone
You lived to die, rejected and alone
Like a rose, trampled on the ground
You took the fall and thought of me
Above all”
For Christians, the message of “Above All” is a reminder of God’s immense love for us and the sacrifice that Jesus made to save us from our sins. It serves as a call to worship and a declaration of faith.
FAQs
1) What is the significance of the title “Above All?”
The title refers to the idea that Jesus is above all else in the universe. This includes other powers, kings, nature, wisdom, and even the ways of man.
2) Why was this song written?
The lyrics of “Above All” were inspired by Philippians 2:9-11, which speaks to Jesus being elevated to the highest place in heaven. The song was written to remind people of God’s love and the sacrifice that Jesus made for us.
3) What are some notable renditions of this song?
In addition to Michael W. Smith’s version, praise leaders like Paul Baloche and Rebecca St. James have recorded their own renditions of “Above All.” It has also been covered by secular artists like Randy Travis and Tim McGraw.
4) What makes this song so popular?
The song’s simple and heartfelt lyrics, coupled with Michael W. Smith’s powerful voice and production, have struck a chord with Christians around the world. Its message of God’s love and sacrifice is one that resonates with people of all ages and backgrounds.
5) Is “Above All” a worship song?
Yes, “Above All” is considered a worship song. It is often played in churches during Sunday services and other worship gatherings.
6) How has “Above All” impacted the Christian music industry?
The success of “Above All” has paved the way for other worship songs to reach mainstream audiences, opening up opportunities for Christian music to impact the music industry as a whole.
7) How has “Above All” impacted people personally?
Many people find comfort and solace in the lyrics of “Above All,” reminding them of God’s love and sacrifice, and giving them hope in difficult times.
8) What is the message of the song?
The message of the song is that Jesus is above all else in the world, and that He came to rescue and redeem us from sin. The chorus highlights the sacrifice that Jesus made for us: taking the fall and thinking of us above all.
9) Is “Above All” a Christmas song?
No, “Above All” is not a Christmas song. While it contains an element of Jesus’ birth and the coming of our Savior, it is not typically associated with the Christmas season.
10) Has the song ever been criticized?
There has been some criticism of the song for its repetitive nature and overly sentimental lyrics. However, its message of God’s love and sacrifice continues to resonate with Christians around the world.
11) What is Michael W. Smith’s connection to the song?
Michael W. Smith produced and recorded the song for his album “Worship” in 2001. His version of the song quickly became popular and earned him a Dove Award for Worship Song of the Year.
12) What other songs has Lenny LeBlanc written?
Lenny LeBlanc has a long and successful career in the music industry, having written and performed with artists like Michael McDonald, Amy Grant, and Roy Orbison. Some of his other popular songs include “Falling,” “Love Came Down,” and “Say a Prayer.”
