What makes Ripen by Shawn McDonald notable?

Ripen received significant acclaim within the Christian music community, charting on Billboard's Top Christian Albums and helping to establish McDonald as an important voice in the genre. Its themes of vulnerability and spiritual reflection resonated with listeners, contributing to a growing audience for contemporary Christian music during the mid-2000s. Released in 2006, Ripen was Shawn McDonald's third studio album, following the success of his previous work, Simply Nothing. At this point in his career, McDonald was solidifying his presence in the contemporary Christian music scene, building on the emotional resonance established in earlier albums.

Ripen works well if you're into steady pacing for reflection, heartfelt melodies for introspection and journey with emotional resolution.

How many songs are on Ripen?

Ripen has 15 tracks, running approximately 60 minutes.

Released 20 years ago

Ripen

Shawn McDonald · 2006

60 min · 15 tracks · contemporary Christian music

A heartfelt blend of acoustic melodies and introspective lyrics that embody a journey of faith and personal growth.

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Top tracks — play these first

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I Want to Be Ready — Opening the album with a plea for preparedness, this track sets a reflective tone that invites listeners into McDonald's exploration of faith and self-awareness.
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Free — This track encapsulates the essence of liberation through faith, combining uplifting melodies with a message about breaking free from life's burdens.
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Home — With its poignant lyrics and soothing instrumentals, 'Home' evokes a sense of belonging and spiritual refuge, making it a standout moment on the album.
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My Salvation — 'My Salvation' serves as a powerful declaration of faith, intertwining personal narrative with broader spiritual themes that resonate deeply with listeners.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady pacing for reflection
heartfelt melodies for introspection
journey with emotional resolution
suitable for quiet contemplation

Maybe skip if you

seeking upbeat party vibes
prefer instant gratification tracks

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 2006, Ripen was Shawn McDonald's third studio album, following the success of his previous work, Simply Nothing. At this point in his career, McDonald was solidifying his presence in the contemporary Christian music scene, building on the emotional resonance established in earlier albums.
Stylistic neighbors: Jonny Diaz· Matthew West· Jason Gray

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Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 I Want to Be Ready 5:00
2 The Rider on the White Horse 2:30
3 Reason 5:00
4 Free 3:27
5 I Am Nothing 4:48
6 Pour Out 3:18
7 Home 4:02
8 Take Hold 4:14
9 Ramblings of a Beggar 1:44
10 Perfectly Done 4:35
11 Confess 4:31
12 Imago 2:51
13 A Little More 3:52
14 My Salvation 4:38
15 Lovely 6:00

What to play next

Listen next

Scattered Pieces: Live

2007

Go back to

Live in Seattle

2005

Full Shawn McDonald discography Where to start with Shawn McDonald Artists like Shawn McDonald

contemporary Christian music

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata