A common complaint about modern worship songs include repetitive lyrics. Sometimes, however, I believe the repetition can really help to let the words we sing sink in. The words we declare over and over again are powerful, and lyrics in a song are no exception. Elevation Worship does this well in many of their songs, particularly “All of a Sudden,” which was released as a single earlier this year. The verse and chorus are repeated exactly, not only with the same melody, but with the same lyrics. The words of this song read like a prayer, asking God to breathe on us until our soul overflows with His living water. The bridge repeats the line “It’s gonna come all of a sudden, I feel it coming.” At first, I found myself annoyed that there wasn’t more to it, but then I considered the weight of this repetition. Instead of letting our minds ruminate on how we are in the middle of a desert season, or how nothing seems to be going our way, we can instead let our mind meditate on the promise that He will give us strength and end the droughts in our lives according to His plan.

@ryansmusic

When I was a camp counselor, I was always on the hunt for clean, upbeat songs to add to our cabin playlist. If I were still a counselor today, I wouldn’t hesitate to add “Just As You Are” by Ryan Stevenson. It’s fun, uplifting and perfect for the summertime!

@oliviarodrigo

I’m really excited about the new sound Olivia Rodrigo is accomplishing in her deluxe song releases from the “Guts” album. The hopeful, folksy tone that a lot of the songs have is a good sound for her, and I hope to hear more music like this from her in the future!