About their 2nd Album, THE GOOD LIFE - Released
in 2004
As a reviewer, I fully agree with the description
of the music of Natalie Wilson & SOP found on this CD as being
"A stirring testament to and joyful celebration of all those
possessions of the Spirit that no amount of money could ever acquire."
While many of the elements of the musical sound
and feeling found on their debut CD, GIRL DIRECTOR are still present
in THE GOOD LIFE, one can notice this spiritual and musical transition
described above in the vocals, which are described as being tighter
than they've ever been, and the interesting, moving compositions
and the messages in the songs. The listener is treated to a unique
variety of Urban - Contemporary Gospel, with not only songs with
a Hip Hop style, but also more mid-tempo and ballads, spiced with
elements of traditional Gospel presented in fresh ways, which
results in a "distinctive yet classic sound, that is fresh,
vibrant, and innovative," and most enjoyable on both a spiritual
and musical level.
Song compositions bring new definitions to choral
gospel, which are a big part of the brightness, freshness, and
joy that is created in these songs for the glory of the Lord,
as they explore what having the GOOD LIFE means to believers and
followers of Jesus Christ, inviting seekers to join in, in living
the good life by belonging to Jesus and following the Lord's will
for their lives.
Wilson comments, "There's a gentler flow to
this album, and I think that comes from growth and change in the
content of our hearts and our character, and it's very much reflected
in the lyrics of the songs. We've moved to a deeper level of Praise
and Worship, and a ministering of healing and wholeness. That's
very much in the forefront - and the thread of continuity--on
healing and wholeness on THE GOOD LIFE. It's about people and
their lives and everyday experiences. Each of the songs embraces
one aspect or another of what, as Christians, we live and know
as the "good life."
Many of the themes of the songs found on this CD,
which all point to Jesus Christ as the answer, have their roots
in Romans 8:35-38, verses that have helped many people through
difficult circumstances in their lives.
"Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?
Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness
or danger or sword? No, in all these things we are more than conquerors,
through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death
or life, neither angels or demons, neither the present nor the
future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything
else in creation will be able to separate us from the love of
God that is in Jesuse Christ our Lord."
For, it is through the good life that we receive
through our walk with Jesus Christ that human beings experience
a lasting peace, inner and outer joy, a healing of hurts and a
sense of being loved unconditionally, being protected and uplifted
if we depend on and turn to Him. The songs explore every day human
experiences, such as the problem of hatred, being tormented by
issues, trials of every day life, depression, dealing with critical
people, being alone to deal with problems and being in a tormented
state of loss and confusion because of our earthly relationships.
Concerning all these unpleasant realities found in our human existance,
the messages of the songs make clear that the solutions are tied
into having a relationship with Jesus Christ, which results in
our healing and wholeness, and being able to find the strength
and inner peace and joy to endure anything, as well as to accomplish
our dreams and goals through the Lord's will for our lives.
This CD is a true blessing to the listener, a source
of comfort and encouragement for us all to walk with the Lord
and experience the good life through Jesus Christ. I highly recommend
this entertaining, uplifting, encouraging CD that brightens the
spirit and encourages our faith in many ways, through praise and
worship and prayer and making the listener aware of the wonderful
character of our Lord Jesus, which encourages our walk with Him.
CD Dedication:
"The Good Life is being rich in Christ, with
all the things He gives us, like peace, healing, and joy."
THE GOOD LIFE CD Songs:
* * * GOOD LIFE - Words and Music by Natalie Wilson
/ Rodney Jerkins
Perky, spirit-lifting Urban Gospel Hip Hop; upbeat
praise song, a love letter to the Lord, with catchy rhythm and
melody. Great support from SOP Chorale, modern full harmony and
ensemble singing. Vocals carried sweetly by Natalie, and the rap
performed by darkchild Jerkins was well done and clearly understood.
Natalie Comments, "It was written at one of
the lowest places in my life. In spite of my current surroundings,
I believed that I was afforded the opportunity to live the good
life, which was a life in Christ where His love and protection
superseded all material wealth and fortune. Rodney Jerkins also
raps about the benefit of being rich in Christ.
Related Scriptural References: (1 John 4:19, Psalm
136, 2 Thess. 3:3-5, John 3:16-18, Psalm 103:1-3, Romans 8:35-39,
Proverbs 3:5-6)
Sample of Lyrics:
Chorus: I'm living the good life, the good life,
yeah. Said I got something to sing about and something to dance
about, Something to talk about, something to laugh about. There
is no doubt about the good life, The good life yeah. (Repeat)
1) When, I think of, all the things You brought
me through I gotta ask why You've been so good to me can I ask
a question? What? What did I do? To deserve you. How did I pray?
What did I say? You give good life to me. Chorus
2) Now that I'm with You, I can be me, let my hair
down, I feel so free. Now I know the answer, life, life is too
short, to walk around with my head down, If You agree, come have
good life with me! Chorus
Bridge: Everyday You're blessing me, and protecting
me, from all danger seen and unseen. Uh a whatcha got? There's
no other love like this, no other life I'd rather live, for the
joy you bring to me! Chorus
Counter Chorus - Good, good life good, good life.
* * * FREE - Words and Music by Natalie Wilson and
Joe Wilson
A favorite of this reviewer. Mostly written in a
minor key, but ends in a major key, built on syncopated rhythm,
which creates a catchy melody and counter melody, in the Hip Hop
style, but also has contemporary gospel influences, creating a
unique combination of genres. This is another great spirit-lifter,
guaranteed to get the listener out of any blue funk or bad mood,
as it re-adjusts one's attitude, as one gives praise to the Lord
for being made free in Jesus Christ. Definitely a modern-contemporary
praise / worship Gospel song, that uses dynamics and building
melodic harmonies, and an irresistable dance beat, supported by
a crisp horn section, expressive, joyous lead vocals and a strong
choir to bring the joyous message of the song, that believers
are free from sin and condemnation in Jesus Christ.
As in traditional Gospel, Natalie leads the choir
in the verses in her own unique, natural style.
Features again great choir harmonies that build
nicely from simple to full choir sound, supported by organ, nice
full horn section support, light percussion and synthesized beat,
with a healthy dose of traditional Gospel added at the end.
Natalie Wilson comments: "This song is primarily
to the church, because there are too many critical opinions of
just what praise should and shouldn't be, and I wanted to break
that barrier down. We all have our own definitions and expressions
of how we want to serve and praise God, and we should respect
that in each individual."
Scriptural References: (Romans 8:1-2, Romans 5:8,
1 Thess. 5:16-18, Philppians 4:4)
Sample of Lyrics of Songs:
First Chorus: No condemnation, I'm free... I dance
and sing in liberty... Don't care what they think about me...
Cause I have a right to be free!
Second Chorus: My praise may be different than yours,
I might clap fast you might clap slow... But just in case you
didn't know...Praise don't have rules it's a flow!
Bridge: Praise is the key that unlocks every door,
so get on the floor. What you're waiting for? The windows of Heaven
are open. The fire is falling tonight! And it's alright!
Chorus
Drive: I'm free, you're free, won't you just let
go, let the praises flow. You're free and I'm free...don't let
what they say, take away your praise!
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah,
yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah.......
Come on, a come on........................................
* * + CONQUERORS - Words and Music by Natalie Wilson
and Joe Wilson
Described as a "joyous irresistible reggae/dancehall
jam," featuring international reggae star, Papa San who sings
the third verse, in his Jamaican verbal style, along with Natalie
and S.O.P, who handle the other verses and chorus, in this type
of Gospel known as reggae/ Jamaican dancehall, made popular in
many circles by Papa San.
Scriptural References: (2 Thess. 3:3-5, Romans
8:37, Ephesians 6:13-18, Phil. 4:11, 13, Rev. 21:3-4, Psalm 27:1,
John 15:1-2, 5)
Song Lyrics:
Chorus: Conquerors, conquerors, we are more than
conquerors! Victorious, warriors, we are more than conquerors.
1) We are mighty soldiers, and we're out on the
battlefield, it's time to kill! Everything that would come up
against us. Gotta back down cause we got the advantage. He's the
True Vine and we are the branches. Shout it out loud no weapons
formed against us!
Chorus 2: Conquerors, conquerors, we are more than
conquerors! Victorious, warriors, we are more than conquerors.
For Christ we live, for Christ we die, He will give us strength
to fight, Stand with us, believe and trust, we are more than Conquerors!
2) Everyday there's a war going on between right and
wrong, who side you're on? The enemy's gone try to prevent us,
That we're gonna lose when it's already proven. We're the ones
who's gonna win in the end, We're the ones who's gonna win in
the end!
Chorus + Counter Chorus: Get the enemy confused,
Ain't no way we're gonna lose!
* * * THERE'S NO HATRED -Words and Music by Andre
Crouch, arranged for a choral piece by Natalie Wilson.
"The only answer to a dying world is Jesus
Christ." In conclusion, we should love each other as Christ
loved us.
Another favorite of this reviewer. A Contempory
Gospel worship song that would fit into any worship service, in
any denomination. Described as a deeply moving ballad, originally
written by Gospel legend, Andre Crouch, over 20 years ago, whose
message is timeless and very relevant to us today. The star of
this song is the strong harmonic full voices of the choral which
the heartfelt lead vocals by James Moore Jr., which carry the
melody and message of the song in a moving manner. Soft musical
support from keyboards / organ / very simple, soft brush percussion,
just to keep the beat.
Natalie comments: "I've always loved that song
and I wanted to resurrect it and transform it into a choral piece.
Especially in the time of war and terror around the world that
we're in now, I really wanted everyone to embrace the fact that
there's no hatred or jealousy in Christ. There's only love.
Scriptural References: (1 John 3:14-16, Galations
5:19-26, John 15:17, 2nd Cor. 5:14)
Sample of Lyrics:
First Chorus: Don't let, hatred be among you....Hatred
always will divide you. There's no hatred in Christ. Don't let,
hatred be among you....Hatred always will divide you. There's
no hatred in Christ.
2nd Chorus: Don't let, jealousy be among you. It
will always, will divide you. There's no jealousy in Christ
Oh no! There's not hatred in Christ! Oh no! There's
not hatred in Christ!
* * * WHEN YOU NEED A FRIEND - (Suffering from loneliness,
betrayal, confusion, being off track and alone to face problems).
Words and Music by Carlton Pope
Another beautiful ballad, with great dynamics that
build throughout the song in both the musical composition and
choral vocals and lead vocals (Tina Marshall), catching the soul
and emotion of this Gospel worship song while delivering a message
of hope, comfort and encouragement that we have in Jesus Christ;
our constant friend who is with us always.
Scriptural References: (Romans 8:38, Hebrews 13:5-6, Psalm 27, Isaiah 49:15-16)
Sample of Lyrics:
1) You're tossed, and driven, can't seem to find
your way. No where to turn, it seems like you've gone astray,
But there is someone, someone you can turn to. When you're in
doubt, Jesus will see you through....When you need a Friend.
Chorus: When you need a friend, right to the very
end...God is on your side.
2) When so-called friends betray you, and always
leave you with no help. Troubles all around you, but you're only
fooling yourself. Cause there is someone, someone you can turn
to. When you're in doubt, Jesus will see you through...When you're
all alone, with no where to go... God is on your side! Chorus.
Drive: He's on your side, He's on your side...God
is on your side.......
* * * 3:16 INTERLUDE: Words, based on John 3:16,
and Music by Stephanie Austin and Joe Wilson
A really nice R & B Gospel worship song that
flows with a memorable melody, easy R & B beat, and sweet
vocals by Stephanie Fisher and the usual great SOP Choral vocals,
creating a great melody / sound for the meaningful lyrics.
Based on John 3:16, the lyrics tell the listener
about a major principle in the Christian faith. Out of His divine
love for mankind, Jesus Christ willingly made himself to be the
ultimate sin sacrifice once and for all so we can be free of sin
and have eternal life with Him through our belief in Him.
Scriptural References: (John 3:16, Hebrews 9:11-15,
28, & 12:13, 1 Peter 2:24)
Song Lyrics:
Intro: Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh
For God so loved the world, He gave His only Son,
That whosoever believe in Him shall have everlasting life, Oh
what a perfect scarifice through Jesus Christ, He gave His life
for me, at Calvary.
For God so loved the world, He gave His only Son,
That whosoever believe in Him shall have everlasting life, Oh
what a perfect scarifice through Jesus Christ. He shed His blood
for me, at Calvary. He died to set me free, at Calvary. He died
to set me free.
* * + PEOPLE - (Critical of your faith) - Words
and Music by Natalie Wilson & Joe Wilson
Lead vocals by Lakeesha Stillwell & Suquilah
Stillwell
An enjoyable laid back R & B, Hip Hop Gospel
song that has a catchy beat and melody, a perfect vehicle for
lead vocals and the always harmonic S.O.P. to bring the message
of what attitude to have and who to go to for strength in handling
the criticism of unbelievers and believers who have attitude problems
about your faith.
Natalie Wilson Comments: "This song was written
out of experiences in dealing with how other people have criticized
my faith and beliefs. It further denotes the importance of not
allowing the opinions and scrutiny of others to distract us from
our focus on God, when it is ultimately Him that controls our
purpose and destiny."
Scriptural References: (Romans 12:2, 2nd Cor. 1:
24, Romans 5:1-5, John 15:18-22, 2nd Cor.12:9-10, Matt. 6:33)
Lyrical Samples:
Chorus: People don't understand why, I praise Him
the way that I do. And, they really can't comprehend how, I smile
when I'm going through well, I ain't gonna try and pretend that,
my life has been peachy keen, But He's given me plenty of blessings,
Who cares about the chatter, it really doesn't matter, what people
think.
Who cares about what people say, they're gonna talk
about ya anyway. Just long as you serve the King, you're gonna
be a threat to the enemy. Don't change the way you praise Him,
to please them, that's not a reason, Just live you life pleasing
in His sight, continue doing right, cause. Chorus
Get used to the ridicule, they're gonna throw, what
you used to do. Back in your face but tell em, you love them,
and you're praying but ya, Can't live your life worrying about
what, what people sayin' Just make sure you're living what you
sing, who cares what they think ...Chorus
Bridge: All I wanna do is live my life to please
Christ, everyday! I'm thnakful for the brand new mercies when
I wake. But every time I turn around there's someone trying to
criticize my faith. Chorus
Drive: He understands, where I am. My purpose and
my destiny, is in His plan. He understands, where I am. My purpose
and my destiny, is in His plan. I'm glad He understands, where
I am. No matter what you're going through. It's in His hands.
* * * + PUT BACK JOY - (For trials in our daily
lives & sudden, unexpected tragedies) Words and Music by Melvin
Smith
Arranged by Natalie Wilson. Lead Vocals: Natalie
Wilson, Racheal Wilson, Tayla Wilson, and Ahmed Wallace.
Another great favorite of this reviewer - Contemporary
Urban Gospel at its best. Fell in love with the infectious melody,
interesting composition key segues, sweet lead vocals, great harmonic
choral vocals, effective dynamics and the great group ensemble
effort, which brings this song roaringly to life, making it a
great tool in lifting the spirits, reminding the listener to depend
on the Lord to give comfort, inner joy nad strength to endure,
no matter what the circumstances.
Natalie comments: "This is a song of comfort
and soothing. Particularly after the devastating losses of 9/11,
PUT BACK JOY was written to give back hope and inspiration to
people."
Scriptural References: (Romans 15:13 & 14:17,
Phil. 4:4-7, Ephesians 3:16-19, 1 Thess. 5:16-18)
Lyrical Samples:
Chorus: Put back Joy in your life, really doesn't
matter who you are. Together let's say no more pain. There is
trouble all over the land, but I know there is a man, Put back
Joy in your life.
1) Sometimes you don't have the words to say, All
you can do is moan a little to get you through the day um hum,
And there are times when life gets kinda hard, But it's just for
a little while so. Chorus
2) We should think about the children, They are
we, and we should never let them fall, Where there is joy there
is strength, and I know that we can be strong, Hold on....
Bridge: Sorry if your loved one is gone. Don't be
the first to say, Where is my God? In time you'll see, if you
believe, you'll overcome anyway, so.. Chorus
Drive: Joy in your life, peace in your life, a little
bit of Love in your life...
SOP PARTY - Words and Music by Natalie Wilson and
Joe Wilson
A full blown Gospel Hip Hop Praise song that really
cooks with a lively melody, catchy beat, interesting harmonies
and lots of enthusiasm from all involved! Definitely guaranteed to pump up the spirit and get the listener dancing around the
room in celebration for what the Lord has done! A joyous song
of praise and thanksgiving to the Lord which invites all to join
in their S.O.P. Praise Party.
Scriptural References: (1 Thess. 5:16 -18, Hebrews
13:15, James 3:9 & 5:13, Psalm 69:30 & 101:1 & 105:2)
Lyrical Samples:
Chorus: Haven't ya heard bout a state of alert this
is issued to you? Betta get up and move! It's about to get real
live....it's a praise party tonight! So get on your feet, cause
a S.O.P. party's comin your way and if you ain't ashamed. Keep
ya hands raised real high...Represent Jesus tonight
1) Come on everyone time to get up, need to throw
away the drama, We had about enough. We came to tell you that
the mission has begun, we're sending up the praise, put the devil
on the run. We came to party, came to sing and dance, gonna lose
our minds tonight. Like there ain't no second chance. So what
you're waiting for the party has begun, get it up and get it poppin'
Every body, Everyone. Chorus
Bridge: It's okay, keep the faith, He will be, all
that you need.... So raise those hands and strike the band....
Cause He's comin' after all the one's ready to make a stand....
Counter Chorus: If you're down with us than throw
your hands, in the air, like you care! Get on up and come party
with me, you're family with S.O.P.
* * * PEACE & TRANQUILITY - (For broken hearts
caused by failed relationships) - Words and Music by Natalie Wilson
and Joe Wilson
Another favorite of this reviewer. This contemporary,
easy flowing gospel personal worship song with touches of R &
B is described as a "soothing ballad" which was written
specifically for those who are suffering emotionally from "misunderstandings
and challenges in our earthly relationships." The lyrics
clearly describe how the Lord cared for this person during a emotionally
painful time. The well done, heartfelt lead vocals and the great
harmonies of the S.O.P. Chorale intermingle in turn to express
the song's uplifting message, and lovely, memorable melody which
carries the listener to a new level of awareness of what a comfort
and support our Lord can be in our lives if we let Him, when things
get rough in our lives.
Natalie comments: "It talks about the healing
power of God, when we are at our most tormented state of loss
and confusion. He give us peace that surpasses all of our understanding."
Scriptural References: (Ephesians 3:18, Philip.
4:6-8, 1 Peter 5:7, Romans 8:38)
* * * + HEALING REST - (For trials and problems)
- Words and Music by Natalie Wilson and Joe Wilson
This reviewer's favorite ballad on CD. It truly
is a moving worship Gospel ballad whose lyrical content / Natalie's
spoken word offers words of comfort about the Lord's character
and promises to us to always be there for us through our prayer
and worship time with Him. The 3/4 meter gives the piece a comforting,
moving swirling feel to the song, fully supported by fine piano
and strings, and the wonderful full harmonic choral sound one
can expect from S.O.P., All which gives fine support to Natalie's
sweet, heartfelt vocals, as she expresses lyrically how the Lord
delivered her from her depression.
Natalie Wilson comments: "This song is drawn
from Matthew 9:20 where Jesus heals a woman who has suffered for
years with bleeding. It's modern day analogy would be simply our
becoming healed and whole from whatever issues have been tormenting
us."
Scriptural References: (Matt: 9:20 & 11:28-30,
John 14:1-2, Jeremiah 29:11-13 and Psalm 46:1)
Lyrical Samples:
Words spoken by Natalie: "There is a woman
that had an issue of blood for many long years. She spent all
she had on doctors and physicians. Til one day, she heard Jesus
was in town. And she pressed her way through the crowd to touch
the hem of His garment, and she was made whole. You need to know
that in worship. There is healing and rest."
Each time I hear You, I long to feel You. I want
to touch Your hem. The hem of Your garment is where I can worship.
Is where I find healing and rest.
I need to praise You. Lose myself in You. Hide in
that secret place. For You there is shelter. And warmth from the
winter. Is where I find healing and rest. For You there is shelter
and warmth from the winter, Is where I find healing and rest.
Hook: Oh worship, oh worship, Oh worship, oh worship,
Oh worship, oh worship.
The hem of Your garment, Is where I can worship.
Is where I find healing and rest.
* * * + LIQUID PRAYER - (Musical healing for deep
emotional pain.) - Words and Music by Natalie Wilson and Joe Wilson
A strong favorite of this reviewer. Described as
an infectious, dazzling mid-tempo pop/ R&B Gospel song -
one that was inspired by Natalie's personal struggles, which is
why the lyrics minister so well to those in emotional distress,
suffering from a broken heart, or in the depths of depression
and loss.
Natalie shares, "The term 'Liquid Prayer' describes
my bout with depression when I would lie awake at night and just
cry and cry. There aren't any words to describe it, and I couldn't
even find words to put into prayers. But God didn't need words.
He knew what was in my heart, and what I was going through, and
He delivered me. Those tears were my liquid prayers."
Scriptural References: (Philip. 4:6-8, Romans 8:26-27
& 37-38, Matt. 6:33, Psalm 91)
Lyrical Samples:
I thought of you the other day and I prayed, You've
been acting as if you're okay, But you're hurting inside with
no one to confide, So God give me these words to say.
Chorus:
When your words can't convey what your heart needs
to say, When you cry God hears you through your tears. And your
stories are spoken God hears and He cares, For He understand your
liquid prayers.
I can see that your spirit is, it's broken and torn,
Cause I've been where you are once before. And I know how it feels
when you, ya can't say a word. When you're weary from the pain
and hurt, so when... Chorus
Bridge: Know that weeping may endure for a night.
But joy cometh in the morning light. So be not dismayed for my
God will take care. Keep the faith help is on the way! So stand
still my sister, my brother be strong. Cause you're breakthrough
is waiting today. You've been crying and my God has bottled your
tears. And He's answering your liquid prayers. What you need to
do is just hold on.
Drive: Hold, on Every time, every time you cry (that
He's healing you inside). Be strong, God understands (trust and
believe) your tears. He's working it out for you, yes. He's doing
it now for you, yes.
Julie Carr - Music Reviewer for ChristianMusic.com
Information about Natalie Wilson & SOP was
provided by:
Lynn McCain / McCain & Company // lynn@mccainpr.com
