Writing one massively popular song is one thing. Using that momentum to launch a long and successful career is another thing altogether. It would've been easy for iconic Christian contemporary band MercyMe to become some one-hit wonder after the massive success of "I Can Only Imagine." And while no song has ever quite had quite the same other-worldly heights as the hit," Spoken For, the band's second album, became an essential high point that helped establish MercyMe as an industry standard. As Spoken For turns 20 years old, I look at some of the album's most notable hits.
"The Change Inside of Me"
With a more guitar-driven hook, "The Change Inside of Me" bounces into a mid-tempo rocker. With a rousing chorus that helped the song find airplay, it praises Jesus for helping us to grow in our faith. Melodically, the song bears some hallmarks of the early 2000s music trends. But its low-key approach, like what MercyMe does in their music, brings a timeless quality that makes it feel at home—even years later.
"Spoken For"
Arguably a spiritual successor to the band's signature hit, "I Can Only Imagine," Spoken For's title track finds the band in ballad territory. The song is somewhat less anthemic than some of their most notable hits. But lead singer Bart Millard vocally delivers the song with passion, with orchestral backing that provides a rousing finish. MercyMe's most prominent recurring theme is a longing for heaven. It's the theme that drove the success of "Imagine" and has driven many of their singles throughout their career. "Spoken For" fits well within this theme, longing to trade all that this world has to offer for the divine love of Christ.
"Word of God Speak"
I would argue that "Word of God Speak" is the band's most "legacy" song from this album—and with good reason. The song's success on Christian radio helped prove that MercyMe wasn't a one-trick pony. The song has become a worship standard, making it a strong contender for Sunday morning services.
Thematically, the song doesn't stray far from the band's strengths. Only instead of musing about heaven, the band delivers a song about longing to hear God speaking in the day-to-day. Bart again drives the song's melodic power and makes for a career highlight for MercyMe.
These are some of our favorites from the album. What song from Spoken For is your favorite?
J.J. Francesco is a longtime contributor to the NRT Staff. He's published the novel 'Because of Austin,' and regularly seeks new ways to engage faith, life, and community. His new Christmas novel, 'When Miracles Can Dream,' releases this holiday season.
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