Tour Spotlight: Steven Curtis Chapman
08-25-2008
by Andy Argyrakis

Tour Spotlight

“Summer Days Tour”

DuPage County Fair/Wheaton, IL

Thursday, July 24, 2008

Over the years, the various incarnations of this column have covered Steven Curtis Chapman in concert countless times, but this particular performance was unlike any other. For starters, it was one of the first in the aftermath of the tragic accident that led his daughter, Maria, to be with the Lord, followed by the fact that the set list was tailored toward the topic, rather than the usual greatest hits faire or new album introduction.

From the second the singer/songwriter stepped on stage, it was apparent this wasn’t going to be a typical show, but rather a reflective and deeply pensive experience that sought to update the audience of the family’s progress, while also bearing witness to an unwavering trust in the Lord, despite life’s countless uncertainties. Chapman even begged the pardon of nearly 5,000 fans that he may get carried away with random ramblings, but also thanked them profusely for their prayers and ongoing support. And rather than starting with one of his own selections, the tunesmith sat behind the piano sporting a newly grown beard and glasses for a chilling rendition of “Blessed Be Your Name,” a song that’s been on the singer’s mind and heart since the tragic accident.

With an ever so slight warble in his voice due to ensuing emotion, he relied on the audience for some extra leverage, but was back in fine form as the full band appeared for the equally fitting though much more rockin’ “All Things New.” Chapman commented how so many of his songs have taken on a whole new meaning in the wake of recent events with last year’s “Yours” adapting additional significance thanks to a recently penned verse. Beyond the original lines about God’s dominion across the globe, the new segments talk about walking through the shadows of death, but being certain of the heavenly afterlife.

Even more poignant was the ballad “Cinderella,” dedicated to all his daughters and written specifically about watching them grow up. A tribute to his wife Mary Beth also earned center spotlight thanks to an acoustic rendering of “I Will Be Here,” while the even older “My Redeemer Is Faithful and True” again spoke of the family’s unwavering beliefs. Despite keeping a lower key demeanor than previous tours, his band remains a polished five piece that includes 18-year-old son Caleb on guitar and his 17-year-old brother Will Franklin on drums (whom Chapman applauded for their ongoing bravery and courage).

Still, the evening ended on a celebratory note with perpetual sing-a-longs like “Live Out Loud” and “Dive,” which helped give the set list more aggressive equilibrium. While it may not have been the artist’s most entertaining outing to date, it was certainly his most moving and transparent, serving as an overwhelmingly inspiring example of someone who admits he doesn’t have all the answers, but is in the process of rising above the current circumstances with an unshakable faith.

Links:

To view exclusive pics from this concert, click here.

To download Chapman’s new version of current single “Yours,” click here.

For more info on Steven Curtis Chapman, visit his official website at stevencurtischapman.com.