The Incredible Journey of Walter Hawkins: Unveiling the Meaning Behind 'What Is This'
Walter Hawkins' What Is This is a powerful gospel song that uplifts the soul, leaving listeners captivated by its heartfelt lyrics and melodious harmonies.
Walter Hawkins, a renowned American gospel singer, composer, and pastor, left an indelible mark on the music industry with his soulful and inspiring songs. With a voice that could move mountains and lyrics that touched the depths of the soul, Hawkins captivated audiences worldwide. One of his most iconic compositions, What Is This, stands as a testament to his immense talent and unwavering faith. As the song begins to play, one cannot help but be drawn in by the hauntingly beautiful melody and the raw emotion that emanates from every note. In this powerful piece, Hawkins poses a profound question that resonates with listeners and invites them on a spiritual journey. Through the use of compelling transitions and a captivating voice, Hawkins takes us on a soul-stirring exploration of the divine and leaves us longing for a deeper understanding of what truly lies beyond our earthly existence.
Introduction
Walter Hawkins, an esteemed gospel artist and minister, left an indelible mark on the music industry with his powerful and uplifting compositions. One of his most iconic songs, What Is This, continues to resonate with listeners around the globe. This article delves into the significance of this timeless piece, exploring its lyrics, musical arrangement, and the impact it had on Walter Hawkins' career.
The Origin of What Is This
Released in 1980 as part of the album Love Alive II, What Is This quickly gained traction within the gospel community. Walter Hawkins, known for his ability to infuse spirituality and emotion into his music, penned the song himself. Inspired by his deep personal faith and experiences, What Is This became an anthem of praise and thanksgiving.
The Lyrics and Message
The lyrics of What Is This encapsulate a sense of awe and wonder at the goodness and mercy of God. Through his heartfelt words, Hawkins expresses gratitude for God's grace and transformative power. The song serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, one can find solace and hope in the divine presence.
What is this that makes me feel so good?
This line from the chorus encapsulates the essence of the song. It speaks to the overwhelming joy and inner peace that comes from experiencing God's love and mercy. The rhetorical question invites listeners to reflect on their own encounters with the divine and acknowledge the transformative power of spirituality.
The Musical Arrangement
Accompanied by a soul-stirring melody, What Is This showcases the perfect blend of traditional gospel elements and contemporary sounds. The song features a dynamic choir, led by Walter Hawkins himself, whose harmonies and passionate delivery elevate the emotional impact of the lyrics. The instrumentation, including piano, organ, and drums, adds depth and richness to the overall arrangement.
The Power of Harmonies
One of the defining features of What Is This is the powerful harmonies sung by the Love Center Choir. These harmonies not only enhance the musicality of the song but also serve as a metaphor for the unity and strength found in faith communities. The collective voices create an atmosphere of communal worship and celebration.
Walter Hawkins' Legacy
Walter Hawkins' contribution to gospel music extends far beyond his iconic song What Is This. Throughout his career, he released numerous albums and collaborated with various artists, leaving an indelible mark on the genre. His ability to combine heartfelt lyrics with captivating melodies led to his widespread acclaim and influence within the industry.
Inspiring Future Generations
Walter Hawkins' dedication to spreading the message of love, hope, and faith continues to inspire aspiring gospel artists. His unwavering commitment to his craft and his deep spirituality serve as a beacon of light for future generations. The timeless nature of What Is This ensures that his legacy will endure for years to come.
Conclusion
What Is This remains an emblematic song in Walter Hawkins' illustrious career. Through its powerful lyrics, uplifting harmonies, and masterful musical arrangement, the song encapsulates the essence of gospel music and the transformative power of spirituality. Walter Hawkins' legacy lives on through this timeless piece, serving as a reminder of the enduring impact of his contributions to gospel music.
Introduction: Meet Walter Hawkins and Discover What Is This.
Walter Hawkins, a name synonymous with gospel music excellence, left an indelible mark on the genre through his soul-stirring compositions and powerful performances. One of his most iconic songs, What Is This, continues to resonate with audiences across generations. With its profound lyrics and captivating melody, this masterpiece stands as a testament to Hawkins' artistic brilliance and spiritual depth.
The Legacy of Walter Hawkins: Understanding His Impact on Gospel Music.
Walter Hawkins revolutionized gospel music, pushing its boundaries and expanding its reach. His unique blend of traditional gospel, contemporary R&B, and soulful elements appealed to a wide audience, transcending cultural and generational barriers. Hawkins' dedication to spreading the message of faith and hope through his music made him a pioneer in the genre, inspiring countless artists to follow in his footsteps.
Musical Exploration: Unraveling the Artistry Behind What Is This.
What Is This showcases Hawkins' exceptional musicality and meticulous attention to detail. The song's arrangement seamlessly weaves together various instruments, including piano, organ, guitar, and drums, creating a rich sonic tapestry. The carefully crafted harmonies and dynamic vocal arrangements heighten the emotional impact of the lyrics, drawing listeners into a transcendent musical experience.
Analysis of Lyrics: Dive into the Meaning and Message of What Is This.
The lyrics of What Is This delve into the awe-inspiring nature of God's love and grace. Through profound imagery and poetic language, Hawkins invites listeners to reflect on the transformative power of divine intervention. The song's message of redemption and gratitude resonates deeply with those who have experienced the life-changing touch of God's love.
Gospel Revival: How What Is This Influenced the Genre.
What Is This marked a turning point in gospel music, ushering in a new era of contemporary gospel sound. Hawkins' innovative approach, blending traditional gospel elements with modern musical styles, breathed new life into the genre, attracting a broader audience. The song's popularity and impact paved the way for a gospel revival, inspiring a wave of artists to experiment and evolve within the genre.
Sonically Captivating: Unveiling the Instruments and Vocal Arrangements of What Is This.
The instrumental arrangement of What Is This skillfully combines various instruments to create a symphony of sound. The piano provides a melodic foundation, while the organ adds depth and richness to the composition. The guitar accents and punctuates the emotional peaks, while the drums drive the rhythm forward. The vocal arrangements, characterized by intricate harmonies and soaring melodies, further enhance the song's sonic appeal.
Hawkins' Vocals: Appreciating the Stellar Performance in What Is This.
Walter Hawkins' vocal prowess shines through in his performance of What Is This. His rich, velvety voice effortlessly conveys the depth of emotion embedded within the lyrics. Hawkins' masterful control and impeccable phrasing captivate listeners, drawing them into the song's narrative. His ability to infuse each note with passion and sincerity is a testament to his exceptional talent as a vocalist.
Critical Reception: The Resonance and Recognition of What Is This.
What Is This garnered widespread critical acclaim upon its release, with many recognizing its significance within the gospel music landscape. Critics praised Hawkins' artistry, citing his ability to bridge the gap between traditional and contemporary gospel. The song's emotional impact and timeless message continue to resonate with audiences, earning it a well-deserved place among gospel music classics.
Cultural Significance: Reflecting on the Societal Impact of What Is This.
What Is This transcends its musical boundaries, carrying profound cultural implications. The song's universal themes of love, redemption, and spiritual transformation resonate with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Its ability to inspire and uplift has made it an anthem for hope and faith, fostering unity and healing within communities across the globe.
An Everlasting Anthem: Exploring the Enduring Appeal of What Is This.
Decades after its release, What Is This continues to captivate audiences with its timeless appeal. Its melodic beauty, poignant lyrics, and powerful performances ensure its lasting impact on the gospel music landscape. As long as there are hearts seeking solace and inspiration, this song will remain an everlasting anthem, reminding us of the boundless love and grace that transcends all understanding.
Walter Hawkins' gospel song What Is This is a powerful and uplifting musical composition that touches the hearts and souls of listeners. Through its melodic arrangement, heartfelt lyrics, and soul-stirring performance, this song delivers a message of hope, faith, and gratitude.
The voice and tone of What Is This can be described as reverent, passionate, and joyful. Walter Hawkins' soulful delivery combined with the harmonious backing vocals creates an atmosphere of spiritual reflection and celebration. The song's lyrics express a deep sense of awe and wonder, inviting listeners to contemplate the greatness of God's love and the beauty of His creation.
Here are some key points about What Is This and why it resonates with so many:
Lyrics: The lyrics of What Is This are beautifully crafted, portraying a personal testimony of the singer's experience with God's goodness. The verses describe the transformative power of God's love, highlighting the miracles and blessings that have been bestowed upon believers. These words evoke a sense of gratitude and appreciation for God's grace.
Musical Arrangement: The musical arrangement of What Is This is both captivating and soul-stirring. The combination of stirring melodies, rhythmic beats, and uplifting harmonies create a vibrant and engaging listening experience. The song's arrangement is skillfully crafted to enhance the emotional impact of the lyrics, drawing listeners into a deeper connection with the message.
Vocal Performance: Walter Hawkins' vocal performance is nothing short of extraordinary. His rich, expressive voice effortlessly conveys the profound emotions embedded within the song. The authenticity and sincerity in his delivery resonate with listeners on a profound level, inspiring them to reflect on their own relationship with God.
Message of Faith: What Is This carries a powerful message of faith and spiritual awakening. It invites listeners to ponder the magnificence and omnipotence of God, encouraging them to seek a closer relationship with Him. The song serves as a reminder of the boundless love and grace available to all, leading to a renewed sense of hope and purpose.
Inspiration and Encouragement: The overall tone of What Is This is one of inspiration and encouragement. The song uplifts and motivates listeners, reminding them of the goodness of God even in the midst of life's challenges. It instills a sense of optimism and reassurance, fostering a belief that with God, all things are possible.
Overall, Walter Hawkins' What Is This is a timeless gospel song that continues to touch the hearts and souls of people across generations. Its powerful lyrics, captivating musical arrangement, and heartfelt performance make it a spiritual anthem that resonates with individuals seeking hope, faith, and a deeper connection with God.
Thank you for taking the time to visit our blog and read about the iconic gospel artist, Walter Hawkins, and his timeless song, What Is This. We hope that this article has provided you with insight into the profound impact of Hawkins' music and the powerful message behind his lyrics.
Throughout his career, Walter Hawkins touched the lives of countless individuals through his soul-stirring performances and his ability to convey deep emotions through his music. What Is This is a perfect example of his talent and passion, as it captures the essence of faith, reflection, and gratitude. The song's melodic arrangement, coupled with Hawkins' heartfelt vocals, creates an atmosphere that transports listeners to a place of spiritual introspection.
As you listen to What Is This, you can't help but be moved by the lyrics that delve into the awe and wonder of God's love and grace. Hawkins' powerful voice beautifully expresses the amazement and gratitude that one feels when encountering the divine presence. The song serves as a reminder of the beauty and blessings that surround us each day, urging us to appreciate the miracles in both the extraordinary and mundane aspects of life.
In conclusion, Walter Hawkins' What Is This is a song that transcends time and continues to touch hearts today. Its profound message and captivating melody are a testament to Hawkins' musical genius and unwavering faith. We hope that this article has deepened your appreciation for his contribution to the gospel music genre and encouraged you to explore more of his exceptional body of work. Thank you once again for joining us on this journey of celebrating the musical legacy of Walter Hawkins.
What Is This: People Also Ask About Walter Hawkins
1. Who is Walter Hawkins?
Walter Hawkins was a prominent American gospel singer, songwriter, and pastor. He was born on May 18, 1949, in Oakland, California, and passed away on July 11, 2010. Hawkins played a significant role in the development of contemporary gospel music and was highly respected within the genre.
2. What are some popular songs by Walter Hawkins?
Walter Hawkins is known for several popular gospel songs, including:
- Oh Happy Day
- Goin' Up Yonder
- Thank You
- Marvelous
- Changed
- Be Grateful
3. Did Walter Hawkins win any awards for his music?
Yes, Walter Hawkins received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career. Some of his notable achievements include:
- Multiple Stellar Awards
- Gospel Music Association Dove Awards
- Grammy Award nominations
- Induction into the Christian Music Hall of Fame
4. Was Walter Hawkins involved in any other activities besides music?
Aside from his music career, Walter Hawkins was also actively involved in pastoral work. He served as the pastor of the Love Center Church in Oakland, California, where he provided spiritual guidance and support to his congregation.
5. How did Walter Hawkins contribute to gospel music?
Walter Hawkins had a profound impact on gospel music. He played a pivotal role in shaping contemporary gospel sound and style, infusing it with elements of R&B, pop, and soul. Hawkins' innovative approach to gospel music helped bridge the gap between traditional gospel and mainstream audiences, making it more accessible to a wider audience.
6. What is Walter Hawkins' legacy?
Walter Hawkins left behind a lasting legacy in the world of gospel music. His powerful vocals, heartfelt lyrics, and ability to connect with listeners continue to inspire and uplift people today. His contributions to the genre have influenced countless artists and helped shape the landscape of contemporary gospel music.
In summary, Walter Hawkins was a highly influential gospel singer, songwriter, and pastor who made significant contributions to the development of contemporary gospel music. His popular songs, such as Oh Happy Day and Goin' Up Yonder, resonated with audiences worldwide. Hawkins received various awards for his music and played a crucial role in bridging the gap between traditional gospel and mainstream music. His legacy continues to inspire and impact the world of gospel music.