The First Decade, 1983-1993

Michael W. Smith | Format: Audio CD

Product Details

• Audio CD (October 12, 1993)
• Number of Discs: 1
• Label: Reunion
• ASIN: B0000004SB
• Also Available in: Audio CD  |  Audio Cassette  |  MP3 Download
• Average Customer Review: 4.9 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (43 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #13,188 in Music (See Top 100 in Music)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

27 of 27 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Thanks for 10 great years, Smitty!, June 8, 2000

By 

Gerald Lamb (Gainesville, Florida USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The First Decade, 1983-1993 (Audio CD)

This CD is a sentimental favorite of mine, because Michael W. Smith is the reason I started listening to Christian music. His timeless song, "Friends," was played at my high school graduation and has been one of my two favorite songs ever since (the other is "Worlds Apart" by Jars of Clay). "Friends" was also the reason I bought this album, the first Christian album I ever owned; and it was close to a week before I got around to listening to it because there are so many great songs on this album (good move putting it towards the end, guys). I hear people say all the time that Michael is a feel-good Christian singer, and that there isn't much depth in his lyrics. Sure, Michael does sing a lot of feel-good songs; it's impossible not to in the Christian music business. But those people have obviously never heard the songs "Pray For Me," "Give It Away," or "Place In This World," among others. These songs talk about the struggles and misconceptions that today's Christians have to deal with on a daily basis. And "Secret Ambition" tells of Jesus's unwaivering mission to redeem us through His self-sacrifice. These are hardly feel-good topics. I fell in love with Smith's music for the very reason that his songs made me think. And I continue to listen to this album because Michael W. Smith speaks from the heart. Obviously "Friends" is my favorite song on this track, but I memorized EVERY song. That alone should tell you something. Buy this album because you want to draw closer to God. Buy it because it makes you feel good. Or buy it because it makes you think. Whatever your reason, just buy it. You'll be glad you did.

9 of 9 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A True Inspiration, September 25, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: The First Decade, 1983-1993 (Audio CD)

My devout Christian friend made me a copy of this CD one time, and I absolutely loved it. This CD inspired me to take my religion more seriously and to want a closer relationship with God. I lost the copy of that tape and have been searching for the CD in stores for a looong time. Finally I couldn't take it anymore so I went ahead and ordered it online. I'm slowly but surely building a stronger relationship with God, and I'm going to love having this CD in my possession so I can be inspired whenever I need it. Michael W. Smith is truly blessed with an amazing talent. DEFINITELY buy this CD!

9 of 10 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars This man changed the face of Christian music forever..., April 20, 2005

By 

A. Wilkins (Dallas TX.) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The First Decade, 1983-1993 (Audio CD)

Great collection of Michael's best stuff. I would of course added about 3 more tracks. Best Of and Greatest Hits don't regularly include "lesser known" songs. 'Cross of Gold' is pure gold and many others are well deserving. This collection is a must for any fan of GOOD music. This is something you can listen to anytime.

I couldn't disagree more with the reviewer above. Synthesized? (spell check?) I don't think so. If you've seen him live (I doubt you have) then you would know MWS has talent and caters to almost every musical taste. And if you made music in the eighties, which he did, you're going to have synthesizers in your production. Your comment is unfounded and down-right rude.

Smitty has repeatedly recorded songs that Christians and non-believers alike have come to enjoy and become some of their favorite songs. I think "nails on a chalkboard" should be reserved for more appropriate genres.

I read your reviews of Clay Aiken and had to laugh. Your discrediting a God fearing musician that actually plays several instruments and "licking the dust of the shoes" of someone that didn't win a talent show. Do the math. I hope you give MWS another try and listen to more than just a few songs. You might find more than you bargaind for.