Total Praise - Richard — Smallwood
The story behind "Total Praise" by is a powerful testament to finding faith in the middle of heartbreak. Here is the narrative of how this legendary gospel anthem came to be. The Season of Sorrow
One afternoon, while sitting at his piano feeling broken and "left by God," Smallwood sat down with the intention of writing a song that reflected his pain. He wanted to write a "pity-party song" to express his frustration and sorrow. Total Praise - Richard Smallwood
However, as he began to compose, he felt a spiritual shift. He later shared that God spoke to his heart, saying, "I want your praise no matter what the situation you are in, good or bad" . Instead of a song of defeat, he began to craft a declaration of . The Inspiration: Psalm 121 The story behind "Total Praise" by is a
Smallwood turned to for the foundation of the lyrics. The scripture— "I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help" —became the opening of a modern hymn that acknowledged the "storm" while centering God as the "source of strength". A Global Anthem He wanted to write a "pity-party song" to
In , Richard Smallwood was enduring one of the darkest periods of his life. He was serving as a primary caregiver for two people he loved dearly: his mother, who was battling dementia , and his godbrother, who was terminally ill with cancer .
Genesis of a Gospel Song: 'Total Praise' | Deep Roots Magazine