What does Live the Life sound like?

Uplifting melodies intertwine with heartfelt lyrics, creating a rich tapestry of contemporary Christian pop rock. Rooted in pop rock and contemporary Christian music. Start with "Missing Person".

Is Live the Life a good place to start with Michael W. Smith?

Yes, Live the Life is recommended as a starting point for new Michael W. Smith listeners. Uplifting melodies intertwine with heartfelt lyrics, creating a rich tapestry of contemporary Christian pop rock. Released in 1998, 'Live the Life' was Michael W. Smith's ninth studio album, following his successful crossover album 'I'll Lead You Home' from 1995. At this point in his career, Smith had already established himself as a prominent figure in contemporary Christian music, and this album sought to blend his faith-driven messages with broader pop sensibilities.

Who is Live the Life for?

Live the Life works well if you're into uplifting waves of emotion, dynamic journey with resolution and reflective moments of sincerity.

How many songs are on Live the Life?

Live the Life has 12 tracks, running approximately 56 minutes.

Live the Life

Michael W. Smith · 1998

56 min · 12 tracks · pop rock

Uplifting melodies intertwine with heartfelt lyrics, creating a rich tapestry of contemporary Christian pop rock.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Missing Person Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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Live the Life — This title track encapsulates the album's core message of authenticity and living one's faith openly, resonating deeply with listeners.
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Never Been Unloved — The song tackles themes of unconditional love and acceptance, showcasing Smith's ability to convey vulnerability through powerful lyricism.
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I Believe in You Now — This track stands out for its hopeful message and engaging melody, emphasizing trust and belief during challenging times.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

46 /100

Foothills

Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album features strong melodies and production but lacks standout moments that elevate it beyond its genre.

What we noticed

The first three tracks feature a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the fourth track introduces a slower ballad that shifts the album's energy.
Several songs incorporate layered vocal harmonies, particularly in the choruses, enhancing the emotional impact of the lyrics.
The final track is an instrumental piece that contrasts with the preceding lyrical content, providing a reflective conclusion to the album.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 5/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

uplifting waves of emotion
dynamic journey with resolution
reflective moments of sincerity
late-night introspective listening
sing-along anthems for connection

Maybe skip if you

instant gratification seekers
fans of fast-paced tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Fan Favorite — Beloved by fans for its emotional depth and production quality.
Career context: Released in 1998, 'Live the Life' was Michael W. Smith's ninth studio album, following his successful crossover album 'I'll Lead You Home' from 1995. At this point in his career, Smith had already established himself as a prominent figure in contemporary Christian music, and this album sought to blend his faith-driven messages with broader pop sensibilities.
Stylistic neighbors: Amy Grant· Steven Curtis Chapman· Chris Tomlin