Danny Gokey ‘Jesus People’

Danny Gokey
Jesus People
(Capitol Christian Music Group)

Just as Danny Gokey’s album title, Jesus People, (whether intentionally or not) references the evangelical explosion of the Jesus Movement, these twelve songs positively explore pressing issues in the church, as well as provide encouragement to the body. While the album is explicitly a pop production, its lyrics sometimes come off like one of Apostle Paul’s letters to the church.

It all begins with a call to action titled “We Can Make A Difference” that directs Christ-followers to roll up their sleeves be the hands and feet of Christ. The track “Jesus People” applies a Gospel music arrangement to describe the universal Christian church in simple, straight forward terms. Again and again, Gokey reminds believers about their responsibility to be an overtly visible presence in the world.

Whereas opener “Make A Difference” is set to a finger-snapping contemporary pop groove, Gokey inhabits the persona of a retro, soul balladeer on “Peace.” One even hears hints of Ray Charles-inspired growl from Gokey on this one. Like a Psalm set to a Sunday black church service, Gokey beautifully testifies about God’s calming presence.

Gokey believes the world needs true Jesus people, now more than ever, and Jesus People illustrates how to better live out the unique mission to which we’re called.

—Dan MacIntosh

YouTube Jesus People Full Album Playlist:

Spotify Jesus People Full Album Playlist: