With the April 15 release of Brave, Shawn McDonald’s current collection of new songs in three years that pushed this singer and songwriter beyond his comfort zone, much acclaim has poured in, not only about this album but about his amazing growth as an artist and songwriter.
With coverage in such outlets as CBA Retailers + Resources and CCM Magazine, here are a few of the reviews that have posted:
“Not many artists today can claim to fit into multiple musical genres like alternative, folk, pop, and soul while still contributing solid music with an artistry worthy to be heard by almost anyone. Well, Shawn McDonald is one such rare talent.” – JesusFreakHideout.com
“This album only becomes richer and more complex with every repeated listen…Shawn’s signature acoustic vibe is perfectly blended with EDM undertones, presenting something sparklingly raw and authentic. This is a game-changing release in McDonald’s seasoned career…Take my word for it–don’t let this one go under your radar. – NewReleaseTuesday.com
“This album shows McDonald’s growth as an artist as he explores new avenues with his music. From electronic undertones to guitar driven sounds, there is something for everyone on this album. Take a listen, you won’t be sorry.” – CMAddict.com
MORE ABOUT BRAVE: In creating this new album, which was produced by Chris Stevens (TobyMac, Carrie Underwood, Colton Dixon), Jamie Kenney (Marc Broussard, Erin McCarley) and David Garcia (Group 1 Crew, Britt Nicole), Shawn McDonald took a different approach compared to his past projects. “I’ve been a singer/songwriter for close to 16 years now and have seen so many elements progress within my music,” he shares. “I may have started with just an acoustic guitar and some simple stories, but I’ve since sought to create art with meaning, messages, thought and depth. This record feels like the deepest I’ve ever dived in that direction, all while adding considerably to my sound, which is why I called the record Brave. I feel like I’m making art with the same intentions, but there is definitely an increasingly noticeable electronic element on top of the acoustic foundation.”
The first single, the anthemic “We Are Brave,” showcases that very message. McDonald explains, “In the past, I’ve always been a very timid soul and have often been afraid of being judged, which has probably caused me to miss out of a lot of things in life. Remembering that phase of my life, about feeling like I don’t fit in, I realized there are probably a lot of people out there who feel the exact same thing. We all feel inadequate at times and that’s where the whole concept came into play. The song and album as a whole is about putting down our insecurities, fears, and how we think people are going to respond to us in favor of simply being brave.”
“We Are Brave” continues climbing up the charts at radio. It’s currently at No. 4 on the Hot AC chart, and jumped two spots on the National Audience chart. Be sure to watch the music video for “We Are Brave” by clicking on the image below.
Catch Shawn on tour:*
April 25 -Goodyear, AZ – Desert Springs Community Church
April 26 – Tempe, AZ – Christ Life Church
April 27 – Flagstaff, AZ – Victorious Life Christian Center
May 01 – Medford, OR – Craterian Theater
May 02 – Bend, OR – Journey Church
May 03 – Port Orchard, WA – Christian Life Center
May 04 – Salem, OR – Court Street Christian Church
May 09 – Lafayette, IN – Sacred Grounds Reclaimed
May 10 – Elkhart, IN – Servants Heart Community Church
May 23 – Nashville, TN – Rocketown
May 24 – Rocky Mount, VA – Harvester Performance Center
July 27 – Grand Haven, MI – Worship At The Waterfront
Aug 08 – Midland, TX – Rock The Desert Festival
*dates are subject to change; please check ShawnMcDonaldmusic.com for the most updated information
