The Newsboys is a well-known name in three decades of Christian music. While they snuck into the music business at the end of the 1980s, they enjoyed notable success in the early 1990s. While their initial collaboration with musician Steve Taylor led to some success with 1992's Not Ashamed, Going Public in 1994 propelled the group into A-list headliners. Celebrating 30 years since that monumental release, we look back at some of this album's highlights.
The Signature Hits
Continuing their partnership with the witty Steve Taylor, Going Public released some of the most iconic hits from the band. Most notable among them was "Shine," which was huge on Christian radio. It's arguably one of their most well-known songs. But don't count out other signature hits like "Spirit Thing" and "Real Good Thing." These songs continued to develop the band's humorous approach to addressing profound theological topics, a characteristic of Christian radio during that era. This was achieved through their endearing melodies and groovy guitar lines. "Let It Rain" and "Be Still" appealed more to the contemporary side of the music aisle. While these hits are less well-known over the years, they've still earned their place of honor in the greater Newsboys discography.
The Lesser Knowns
Songs like "Truth and Consequences," the closer "Elle G," and the title track offer strong melodic highlights that might not be as well known outside of the band's loyalist fans. "Truth and Consequences" is another in a long line of witty rockers from the group tackling serious issues. The song's deep contemplation of love, desire, and romantic relationships is more substantial than the shallow pining of typical love songs, expressed with unique phrases reminiscent of a collaboration between the Newsboys and Steve Taylor. "Poster child for the Christian single/Dumped on more than a birdhouse shingle/Tired of the same old crowd, she starts to/Mingle where she don't belong/All God's bachelors hanging in a bunch/wolves in Wool-lite beat 'em to the punch/Score another knockout, barely bought her lunch/What went wrong?" "Elle G." is a tragic look at those left behind after a suicide that is sure to strike a poignant chord with many listeners.
The Post Public Standard
After Going Public, the Newsboys released their bestselling Take Me To Your Leader, the swan song of initial vocalist John James with the band. Launching the band into the status of legends in the Christian music scene was also a turning point. While their sounds through the years would change with the times, denying the legacy that the Newsboys have left on Christian music is challenging. While the band fronted by Michael Tait today might be very similar in terms of members to the band that released Going Public, the sounds have changed so much that it hardly feels accurate to call them the same band. And yet, they are still the Newsboys. Like any of us, a band around for as long as they have been will change with time. As this influential album celebrates its 30th anniversary, let's reminisce and acknowledge its impact in establishing the band's presence in the music industry.
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 novel, 'When Miracles Can Dream,' is out NOW!
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