DANNY GOKEY : Haven’t Seen It Yet? (Capitol Christian Music Group)
America watched closely as Danny Gokey battled tragedy and won millions of hearts on his way to the finals of American Idol Season 8. His story was no secret: a onetime truck driver from Milwaukee, he’d married his high school sweetheart Sophia only to lose her, a victim of surgery gone bad, just a month before auditioning for the smash hit talent show. That was enough to transfix viewers week after week. Add to that his singing — expressive, soulful, driven but yet in command of emotions that would have overpowered practically anyone else. The result was a performance that moved audiences to tears and inspired many to face adversity with greater courage. Today Danny Gokey stands at a different place, wiser, stronger. He’s married and has become a father. Once paled by clouds, his world now bathes in a brighter light. “Don’t lose hope in your prayers. Maybe you just haven’t seen it, because all His promises are up ahead.” These are just some of the words of this new release from Danny. It a smooth, uptempo, R&B groove, that fans of artists such as Smokie Norful and Kurt Carr will appreciate. It’s radio friendly and full of good hooks. An excellent single. 9/10.