David Phelps--Leaving a Legacy of Love

Southern Gospel artist David Phelps brings down the house, or rather the sold-out Alabama Theater, with his first live project.

The former Gaither Vocal Band member struck out on his own 2 years ago to pursue what has become a successful solo career in Gospel music. Fans of the lusty voiced tenor get double the pleasure with "Legacy of Love" because not only do they get a DVD of the concert, but he throws in a CD of the music as well. The DVD has 18 offerings ranging from soulful ballads to upbeat originals to traditional hymns.

Recorded in the Myrtle Beach, South Carolina Theater, Phelps brings to this project commanding stage presence and talented musicians. Mix it all in with video clips of David talking with friends, family and band members; and what you get is almost an hour of great entertainment.

David Phelps captures the audience and the listener with the first song; the newly written "Virtuoso", which features his back-up singers and the smooth violin stylings of Andrea Springall. It's a toe tapping, sing-along song that finds everyone on the platform moving to the tempo; definitely the right way to start a show.

Prior to singing "Legacy of Love" the title cut, David takes viewers back to the tiny general store in Tennessee, where the song was inspired. Speaking of the town's deceased Police Chief, local townspeople tear up while telling of how the man impacted their lives.

"Bring him home" a tribute to the soldiers serving our country in the Middle East will bring a tear to even the crustiest heart, especially when it's followed by Phelps's rendition of the 'Star Spangled Banner", which brought everyone in the 2,200 seat theater to its feet.

Perhaps my personal favorite is "My Child is coming Home". It contemplates what it might be like in Heaven when the news that another saint is entering the gates. It speaks of building another mansion, sounding the trumpets, and encourages everyone to dance and shout for joy around the throne. It's fun, peppy and quite honestly made me want to get up and dance.

Those who prefer the traditional fare will be pleased to find several hymns to tickle their ears. "How Great thou Art" and "There is a River" are all included; but with a twist only David Phelps could pull off; that will leave you humming long after the music has ended. "Just as I am" is sung twice. First the way we all learned it in church, and then with a new melody, new words, and with a heartfelt plea to take what's broken and make it new; but to take me "Just as I am".

"End of the Beginning" and "Arms Open Wide" are two of David's classics that Gaither Homecoming fans will easily recognize. Both showcase his pure voice and fantastic vocal range. He holds a high tenor note on "Arms Open Wide" that will have DVD viewers joining in the standing ovation Phelps receives from his theater audience.

"Legacy of Love" is perhaps the best of the new releases I've listened to this year. Its diverse play list is well chosen for both the young and the young at heart, making it a perfect addition for your cd library.