The Character of "The Way I Am"
By Ken W.

Not only does Jennifer Knapp have strong writing and solid musical skills, she has character. Despite the temptations of fame and fortune, Knapp has remained grounded. The accolades for such a young artist are overwhelming. Her debut album, "Kansas," has gone Gold; she was awarded the Dove Award for Best New Artist, and recently received a Grammy nomination for "Lay It Down." All this and Knapp still does not feel like a "superstar."

Generally a shy and private person Knapp didn't know what to expect when she began her national debut. At times the pace has been difficult, but never more than she could bear. Knapp credits this to the power and direction of God. Knowing whom she serves and seeing people personally respond has kept her on track. Knapp's music reflects her character of dedicated service. She has a journalistic writing style where she shares her fears, trials, and struggles in life.

"The Way I Am" is a continuation of Knapp's musical gifts. The writing is as emotional, if not more so than "Kansas," and "Lay It Down." Her acoustical folk rock sound is prevalent and taken up a notch by the addition of string accompaniment. The production of "The Way I Am" is more progressive and chances were taken, not so much so that it hinders Knapp's gifts but enhances them.

Knapp stated that she was allowed to experiment more with "The Way I Am." For example, "Say Won't You Say," comes across with a different style for Knapp. Current R&B and Hip Hop, as Knapp explained, influenced this style change. Most experimental was "Light of the World" with its new age type mixture of strings and a reading of Psalm 4 as the chorus brings the song to an end. Knapp credits Gotee Records for the option to experiment by saying, "they have allowed me to go in the direction I wanted."

For me the heart and soul of the CD is the title track. Knapp describes going to the cross and being a sinful human being who is aspiring to be righteous. Knowing that we are human, and as the old saying goes 'saved but not perfect'. Along that line is "By and By" where Knapp sings of the search for grace.

Overall the CD is a successful production. The tone opens up fast and furious with "By and By," "Breath On Me," and "The Way I Am." Then winds down a notch with "Say Won't You Say," "Come To Me," and "Charity." It closes with a more worshipful tone on "Around Me," "Light of the World," and "No Regrets."

Producer Ton McAnany and the band; strings Jeremy Lubbock, drummer Vinnie Cauliuta, bassist Tony Levin, programming David Hentschel, and guitarist Nick Moroch have worked with artists such as Madonna, Michael Jackson, Paul Simon, and Elton John. Knapp explained that not all of the players were Christians, but they have now had the experience of working with a Christian artist, giving them the chance to see the character of a life with a mission. Knapp stated that there were "amazing behind the scene conversations." This combination of players has also helped produce an album that will reach out to others who are seeking. More people will be able to relate to the words and music of "The Way I Am" not by Knapp crossing over to secular music, but by her drawing them into the light of a more meaningful experience.

Ultimately, Knapp has remained focused by staying in the Bible and realizing that her spiritual gifts, and life, are empowered by her faith. She also accepts the fact that she has a personal responsibility for her spiritual health. For Knapp and many artists like her, being in the spot light is difficult. Artists are seen as "superstars" and "super Christians," when in fact they are human beings with the same temptations and struggles as everyone else. People who are in need of prayer as they are set apart by God to represent Him, and through their character edify others.

Dear Friends, I urge you, as aliens and strangers in the world, to abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul. Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.

1 Peter 2:11-12