Michael W. Smith ‘Lullaby’ (Album & Book)

Written by: Sarah Hansel (5/6/2018)

Michael W. Smith has been performing around the world to sold-out crowds for the last 30+ years, he is still going strong in his faith and music. However, this is an untraditional approach to using his talents. Michael, a Multi-Platinum, three-time Grammy® Award-winning artist, best-selling author launched Nurturing Steps™, a new infant and toddler series with a simple mission to provide parents and grandparents with music and books to enliven a young child’s journey with hope and faith through song and storytelling.

This first new album, Lullaby, is accompanied with the book, Nighty Night and Good Night, mark the first-ever children’s album and book by Michael, each crafted in collaboration with renowned VeggieTales co-creator Mike Nawrocki.

Bedtime for wee-ones can be difficult at times as parents know, so choosing the best tools to help with a daily routine is vital. Adding this special bedtime story with soothing music from these iconic Christian artists is highly valued. Each with their renown God-given talents, they bring a peaceful harmony to help calm hearts and create a better ambiance for grandparents, parents and kids.

Nighty Night and Good Night is a sweet short story that unfolds when Ben is tucked in but can’t fall asleep. He tries different ways to get tired, but it’s not until the Nighty Night band, Lamby, Bear and Sleepy Puppy, ultimately prevail. Using the lullaby music while reading the book would make any child’s bedtime routine calmer, which would set up perfectly for evening prayers—one of the best practices for families.

The lullabies are a mix of tracks with instruments only like “The Bible Song” and some songs with soothing vocals such as “Agnus Dei” and “Rock-A-Bye-Baby.” The album also has some short narration clips about falling asleep, but I really enjoyed the adorable titles like “No More Crying” and “Jesus Loves Me.”  Some of the tracks are untraditional, meaning Michael has put his own musical touch into each one.  However, you can’t have a lullaby album without the famous “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star,” which is included along with over 25 tracks.

I’m not sure what parent with little kids wouldn’t want to add a sweet story with cute little furry animals and consoling music to their nighttime routine. I applaud these two men for the beautiful example of using the talents God has given them.

5/5