In the ever-evolving landscape of music, there exist artists who go beyond mere entertainers, reaching deep into the human soul to touch lives and kindle emotions. One such artist is Todd Smith, known to many as a founding member of the celebrated contemporary Christian music band Selah. But Todd Smith’s story is far more than the music he creates; it’s a journey of faith, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to his message of hope.
Early Life: A Missionary’s Tale
In the world of contemporary Christian music, one name stands out as a founding member of the renowned band Selah: Todd Smith. Born as James Todd Smith, he is not just a singer but a storyteller through music. His life’s journey is as captivating as his songs.
Todd Smith’s early life reads like an adventure novel. He was raised in an unconventional setting as the son of missionaries in Zaire, Africa, now known as the Democratic Republic of the Congo. His grandparents had already paved the way for the Smith family’s mission in Africa, dedicating themselves to the continent’s people since the 1930s.
Interestingly, Todd’s grandfather, before becoming a missionary, worked as a dentist in the United States. The call of Africa led him to leave behind his comfortable life and embark on a mission to provide dental care and share the gospel in a distant land.
The Smith family’s life took a dramatic turn when Todd was just five years old. Their family home in Africa was tragically consumed by fire, leaving them with a choice that would forever change their lives. Todd’s father felt a deep calling to continue the mission in Africa, following in the footsteps of his parents. Consequently, Todd’s parents relocated him, along with his three siblings and mother, from Detroit, Michigan, to the heart of Africa. This move would become the backdrop to Todd’s formative years.
Despite the upheaval and challenges, Todd Smith never wavered in his faith and his commitment to the teachings of the Bible. In fact, his missionary upbringing played a significant role in shaping his musical journey. “I’ve been singing in front of people since I was three,” Todd once shared. “My parents are missionaries. When we came back to the United States, we had to visit each church that sponsored us. That was a good training ground.”
Todd Smith’s family values and faith have remained at the core of his life. He is married to Angie Smith, and together, they have four daughters.
Their family faced a heart-wrenching tragedy when their daughter Audrey was born in April 2008 but passed away just a few hours later due to cardiac issues. Angie, Todd’s wife, has also made her mark as an author with books like “I Will Carry You: The Sacred Dance of Grief and Joy” and “What Women Fear: Walking in Faith that Transforms.”
Recording Career: Selah and Todd Smith’s Solo Journey
Selah, the contemporary Christian music band, was founded by Todd Smith and his sister, Nicol Smith, along with their friend Allan Hall.
The group has become known for their well-integrated harmonies, hymns, and melodic ballads. However, Todd Smith’s musical talents extend beyond Selah.
In 2004, Todd released his debut solo album, titled “Alive,” under Curb Records. This album marked a departure from Selah’s signature sound, as Todd ventured into the realm of rock music. Influenced by bands like Boston, Foreigner, Journey, and Genesis, “Alive” showcased a different side of Todd’s musicality.
Although “Alive” remains Todd Smith’s only solo release to date, he continues to collaborate with Allan Hall and Amy Perry, who are the current members of Selah. Their most recent album, “Hope of the Broken World,” was released in 2011, once again demonstrating their dedication to creating meaningful and inspiring music.
One of Todd Smith’s most poignant songs, “I Will Carry You,” was inspired by the loss of his daughter Audrey Caroline. This song is a heartfelt tribute to her memory and serves as a testament to Todd’s ability to channel his experiences and emotions into his music.
Discography: Todd Smith’s Musical Legacy
Todd Smith’s discography includes both his solo work and the albums released with Selah. Here’s a glimpse into his musical journey:
Solo Albums:
- 2004: “Alive”
- 2016: “There’s a Light”
Albums with Selah:
- 1999: “Be Still My Soul”
- 2001: “Press On”
- 2002: “Rose of Bethlehem”
- 2004: “Hiding Place”
- 2005: “Greatest Hymns”
- 2006: “Bless The Broken Road – The Duets Album”
- 2007: “Timeless: The Selah Collection”
- 2009: “You Deliver Me”
- 2010: “Look at You Loving Me”
- 2011: “Hope of the Broken World”
- 2014: “You Amaze Us”
- 2016: “Greatest Hymns, Vols. 1 & 2”
- 2017: “Unbreakable”
- 2019: “Firm Foundation”
- 2020: “Step into My Story”
Conclusion: Todd Smith’s Musical Odyssey
In the world of contemporary Christian music, Todd Smith’s journey is one of faith, resilience, and the unwavering commitment to sharing his message of hope and inspiration through his music. From his missionary upbringing in Africa to his founding role in Selah and his solo ventures, Todd Smith’s musical odyssey continues to touch the hearts of listeners around the world.
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His story is a testament to the power of faith and the enduring impact of heartfelt music. As Todd Smith continues to create and inspire, his legacy in the world of gospel and contemporary Christian music remains firmly intact.
Faqs about Todd Smith
1. Who is Todd Smith, and what is his claim to fame?
Todd Smith, also known as James Todd Smith, is an American singer and songwriter best recognized as a founding member of the contemporary Christian music band Selah.
2. What was Todd Smith’s early life like?
Todd Smith’s early life was unconventional. He grew up as the son of missionaries in Zaire, Africa, now known as the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and later moved to the United States.
3. How did Todd Smith’s missionary upbringing influence his music career?
Todd Smith credits his missionary upbringing for his music career, as he began singing in front of people from a very young age due to his family’s missionary work.
4. Who is Todd Smith’s wife, and how many children do they have?
Todd Smith is married to Angie Smith, and they have four daughters together. They also had a daughter named Audrey, who sadly passed away shortly after birth due to cardiac issues.
5. What books has Angie Smith, Todd Smith’s wife, authored?
Angie Smith, Todd Smith’s wife, is an author who has written two books: “I Will Carry You: The Sacred Dance of Grief and Joy” and “What Women Fear: Walking in Faith that Transforms.”
6. When did Todd Smith release his debut solo album, and what is it called?
Todd Smith’s debut solo album, titled “Alive,” was released on August 10, 2004, under Curb Records.
7. What is unique about Todd Smith’s solo album “Alive”?
“Alive” is unique as it departs from Selah’s common sound, featuring a more rock-influenced style influenced by bands like Boston, Foreigner, Journey, and Genesis.
8. How many albums has Todd Smith released as a solo artist to date?
As of now, Todd Smith has released two solo albums: “Alive” in 2004 and “There’s a Light” in 2016.
9. What is Selah, and when was it formed?
Selah is a contemporary Christian music band that was formed in 1997 by Todd Smith, his sister Nicol Smith (later Nicol Sponberg), and their friend Allan Hall.
10. How did Selah gain recognition in the music industry?
Selah gained recognition through their unique sound, which includes well-integrated harmonies, hymns, and melodic ballads, often with African choral influences.
11. Who replaced Nicol Smith in Selah, and when did this change occur?
Amy Perry eventually replaced Nicol Smith as a long-term third member of Selah. Nicol left the group in 2004 to focus more on her solo career.
12. What are some of Selah’s popular albums?
Selah has released numerous albums, including “Be Still My Soul,” “Press On,” “Hiding Place,” and “Hope of the Broken World,” among others.
13. What inspired Todd Smith’s song “I Will Carry You”?
“I Will Carry You” was inspired by the passing of Todd and Angie Smith’s daughter, Audrey Caroline. It is a touching tribute to her memory.
14. How many daughters does Todd Smith have with his wife Angie Smith?
Todd and Angie Smith have four daughters.
15. What is the most recent Selah album, and when was it released?
Selah’s most recent album, “Firm Foundation,” was released in 2019.
16. Has Todd Smith released any new solo music recently?
Todd Smith had not released any new solo music. However, please check for updates as there may have been developments since then.
17. How can I listen to Todd Smith’s music and Selah’s albums?
You can listen to Todd Smith’s solo music and Selah’s albums on various streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music, or purchase them from online music stores.
18. Has Todd Smith received any awards for his music?
Yes, Todd Smith and Selah have received recognition in the Christian music industry, including Dove Awards and chart-topping albums.
19. Is Todd Smith still actively performing and recording music?
Todd Smith and Selah were still actively performing and recording music. However, it’s advisable to check for their latest activities.
20. Does Todd Smith have any upcoming projects or collaborations?
To find information about Todd Smith’s upcoming projects or collaborations, it’s best to follow his official social media profiles and visit his website for updates.
21. How can I stay updated on Todd Smith’s music and career developments?
You can stay updated on Todd Smith’s music and career by following him on social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook, as well as visiting his official website for news and announcements.