(November 21, 2024) When Jonathan McReynolds released his debut Life Music in 2012, it began a special treat for the Gospel world, that continued through five top appearances on the Billboard Gospel Charts over his first five full-length releases. Though he was initially shy in stepping to the microphone, McReynolds eventually grew into a multi-tasking musician whose viral sensation single “No Gray” from Life Music was birthed out of a college dorm room.
Besides his “Life Music” stories navigating the joys and woes of life as a soldier of Christ, this Chicago native possesses a warm tenor voice and delicate acoustic guitar exemplifying engaging performances less the high octane. And SoulTracks has been privileged to feature McReynolds in several duets with premier vocalists including Tori Kelly and India.Arie.
As the Christmas season comes closer, McReynolds shares a selection from his debut holiday E.P., Red & Green, on his notably titled Life Music Label. Our latest First Listen presents “Sent Me A King,” as McReynolds joins fellow gospel veteran and SoulTracks regular, Smokie Norful. The track was first heard in the BET+ Original TV Movie, The Sound of Christmas, originally performed by R&B entertainer Ne-Yo and actress/singer Serayah under McReynolds’ production. But McReynolds and Norful’s perspective on “Sent Me A King” satisfies even more through their fluent vocal connection. And the eternal hope assuredly reflects the purpose of Christ’s coming: “God sent us a king/One born to change everything/He sent us a light/A love that makes wrong men right.”
A string and keyboard-filled soundtrack along with an excellently paced video graces this pure duet. Take a listen to Jonathan McReynolds and Smokie Norful spread holiday greatness on “Sent Me A King.”
By Peggy Oliver
