There’s a practice that’s become popular behind the scenes in gospel over the last decade. You may or may not be familiar.
Here’s the scenario: Artist A decides they need to record a “worship” album. Their record company hires a team of songwriters and producers to create a worship experience for Artist A. The record is cut, with mixed or “aight” results.
Not so for William McDowell – singer, songwriter, producer and worshipper. This new tide in the industry toward worship aligns perfectly with what he’s been doing all along. Even before he connected with his musical mentor, a man by the name of Ron Kenoly (a praise and worship pioneer), William was clear about his purpose.
Just one listen to his double-disc debut album, As We Worship: Live, released early last year, will make that purpose clear for you– to lead a new generation of worshippers. I was struck by how often he literally speaks (and sings) of “going to the nations so the whole world will know.”
I know you’re wondering one other important thing. What’s this William McDowell sound like? Well, his music has a William sound. Honestly, I’d love to compare him to Israel Houghton or Jason Nelson, or even Ron Kenoly. But I think his sound is a unique blend of all three with acoustic, contemporary and urban elements.
The best way for to draw your own conclusion is to listen!
His single “I Give Myself Away” has been making an impact on Christian radio, and is also available with his album on iTunes. It’s become popular with praise and worship teams, so chances are you’ve already heart it. If not, check out this clip featured below–
However, I wouldn’t stop there. He definitely has a few other cuts that you’ve got to hear: “Psalm 27 (One Thing)” featuring LaRue Howard, “Give Us Your Heart” and “Send Me,” featuring Brad Fontaine. And oh yeah, “The Sound of Heaven.”
Basically, listen to the whole thing because I’m sure you’ll find plenty of favorites on the two discs, just like I did.
For our friends down south, you can also catch William’s ministry in person. He’s the Music Minister at The Gathering Place in Lake Mary, FL, led by Pastor Sam Hinn.
Either way, I want to know what you think. Go listen (right now) and be sure to come back and share!
This shows you how God's timing is perfect. This CD came out last year Nov. or Dec. A friend of mine ask me about Mcdowell last year then sang I give myself away and I was like sorry don't know the song or the guy. Then I heard the song on 1390am Chicago online and I was like I know this song. I'm glad "I give myself away" is getting it's final due and reconition. This is indeed a powerful song. But the radio is playing it too much. Lol this song will be on our list of we singin this again. I gave it away the first time. lol
I love it. Thanks for sharing his ministry with us!
i just got this a few weeks ago. I give myself away is on heavy rotation in my personal worship time and in my worship set .... this guy is the real deal. William please stay in worship .... dont stray ... we need worship leaders like you in the industry!
I was introduced to this artist a few months ago by a great and good friend of mine. After I saw the clips on YouTube I immediately went to the nearest CD store to by the it because I was so impressed, moved and inspired by William's gift to us. In the mean time I've seen William life in concert this was the cherry on the pie. His music speaks to me deeply, because I know I too am in transition and God is working in my life profoundly. We are part of his Kingdom and have been chosen as the generation who will make change. William's music helps me to get the strength to fight the Goliaths on my path. I would most def recommend this CD. It's the best gift you can give yourself or a loved one. Susan Vrolijk- Curacao Dutch Caribbean
This is a powerful song, yes Lord I give myself away not my will but your will be done!
William McDowell ministered at my church last year (shortly after this project came out), and it was ridiculously anointed. The first word that came to mind when I saw was 'genuine.' I'm with JHMD... he's totally the real deal. On the musical tip, my personal fave has and probably always will be 'One Thing'... the ending just takes me there...
I had kept seeing his McDowell's cd everywhere and Im really sceptical with new artist at times and I was like nahhhh I wont get his cd. Then over the summer I went to a youth event and they sung "I Give Myself Away" as an altar call song and I was like hey I like this so I researched it and it was Mcdowell. Then I was like okay maybe I do need his cd. Then as of this weekend I was at a new church and this girl tore up the song "Closer/Wrapped in Your Arms" and I really loved that song. So I came home researched it again and I found out this song was also from McDowell so I have concluded I just need to buy the album...lol!
"I give myself away" is todays hymn for the new Church.Its not just the music or song that makes it powerful but the ministry and life style of the worshipper behind all that stuff. Having met William and working with him has allowed me to experience first hand where that power originates from and not only the song "I give myself..." but the entire cd. It's a blessing to know that some of the songs were singing can really bring glory to God and help people be set free through genuine worship. This cd is one of those ways to do that.
Hey brother I concur,and having worked with william i can tell you for him," it anit over untill God says it's over for Will. He is a gift and true blessing to the body of Christ.