San Diego-based worship leader Phil Wickham is a passionate artist whose music is centered around his strong faith. He produces songs glorifying God with his faith remaining at the center. As a result, Phil shines a light into the lives of all his listeners.

Raised in a Christian home, Phil comes from a musical family: both his dad and his brother are worship leaders. Phil's been releasing music since his self-titled debut album in 2003 (But, he's actually been leading worship since age 13). His career took off in 2009 when he released his critically acclaimed album, Heaven and Earth. 

Now, in 2021, Phil is back with his eighth album, Hymn of Heaven. This new musical experience is certainly all-encompassing with many melodies featured. All the different messages he focuses on wrap back around to prove God's love in every situation. Let's dive into two songs from this album. 

NEW: "It's Always Been You"

There's joy in the house of the Lord today
And we won't be quiet
We shout out Your praise
There's joy in the house of the Lord

From the first note of the music video, I knew this would be a joyful song; Phil definitely came through on that aspect. I love how beautifully the keys and drums blend together in this song. Pair that with the enthusiastic lyrics and it makes me want to dance in the presence of God. Our heavenly Father has done so much for us, why shouldn't we celebrate? He deserves our complete attention and all our praise. I've learned that worshipping is an act of surrender, an act of humility that makes me accept that God is greater than me. What an exciting fact. I'm a child of the one true king. How amazing is that?

NEW: "House of the Lord"

My northern star
Your love will be the compass of my heart
Oh, I just wanna be right where You are
Right where You are

Do you know how there are those special songs that just remind you of home? I have a couple on a list to calm me down when my anxiety spikes. I'm definitely adding "House of the Lord." The soft piano is so peaceful, but what's even better is the truth that Phil proclaims. All those breakthroughs, all those miracles in my past, it's always been God. Even if I couldn't see it then, I'm acknowledging it now with the help of this song. I encourage you to reflect on God's presence in your life as well while listening to this song.