Pop vocalist and songwriter David Phelps has been given such a talent. Credited by many as having one of today's most spectacular voices, David has seen countless thousands rise to their feet for his inspiring, powerhouse performances. His audiences have included George W. Bush, massive crowds at Billy Graham Crusades, and millions of "ABC News" viewers, and his voice has brought him multiple Grammy and Dove awards. And with the release of his new solo debut for Word Records, Revelation, Phelps is poised to reach an even greater audience of fans around the globe. Yet amid all the acclaim, David has a special person in his life who reminds him to always honor the One who gave that talent to him.
His wife of eleven years, Lori, helps David balance his dual roles as acclaimed vocalist and down-to-earth husband and father of three (soon to be four). "Most of us don't get the chance to have even one standing ovation or round of applause in our lives, so working on a stage of any kind can give you a really unrealistic view of life if you're not careful," David reveals. "In her own loving way, Lori won't let me live in that place of applause, and I'm very thankful for that."
Though not a musician herself, Lori has walked with David all along the long, challenging road as he has pursued his calling to music. Hailing originally from the Houston area, the couple met at Texas' Baylor University over a decade ago, where Phelps earned a degree in line with his passion—music.
Recognized from an early age for his unusual talent, David knew from the beginning that he wanted to perform music for the glory of God. Not everyone understood his commitment to faith, however. "I had several teachers who felt that I should be singing opera, or performing somewhere on Broadway," he recalls. "In college particularly, I had a teacher who kept pushing me strongly toward classical music, but when she finally accepted that Christian music was what God was calling me to do, that became the turning point for me."
From there, as a teenager, David went on become the winner of the 1988 Seminar In the Rockies held in Estes Park, Colorado, the youngest winner of the contest at that time. He then continued his career after graduation with a stint as Artist In Residence for First Baptist Church in Hurst, Texas. Though for a time it appeared that family commitments might prevent David from realizing his dream, he and Lori packed their bags for Nashville, Tennessee, in 1996 with the hope of landing a record deal for David.
Once again, however, he faced a challenge. After six heartbreaking months, David had not found an opportunity, and since he had given up his job back in Texas, the young couple was running out of funds. While visiting his family one weekend back in Texas, David told them, "We really feel like God was calling us to Nashville, but it's just not happening." Instantly, his family gathered around David and Lori and began to pray for a miracle.
A miracle is what God had in mind. The very next day, back in Nashville, David met with executives from Word Records and found out about an opportunity with best-selling vocal foursome Gaither Vocal Band. Two weeks later, he officially joined the group that has brought him four Dove Awards, two Grammy Awards, and over 13 gold and 15 platinum-selling projects.
Throughout the phenomenal success he has experienced with Gaither Vocal Band, David has cherished the dream of releasing a solo album expressing his own style and songcrafting. With the release of Revelation, David has finally fully realized the calling he first felt so many years before.
Featuring songs primarily written or co-written by Phelps, Revelation is a showcase for the impressive vocal and musical training that have shaped Phelps as a performer, swirled into a beautiful sonic blend that reflects the best of 21st century pop. From dramatic ballads to R&B-influenced groove and rock-tinged, energetic pop, Revelation reveals the musical passion and substantive message behind this exceptional singer/songwriter.
"The foundation of this album lies in knowing who Christ really is," explains David. "There's a line at the beginning of the song 'Break Free' that sums it up well—'Forget what you've heard about Jesus, if it doesn't begin and end with love.'
"As a culture, both churched and unchurched, we carry around so many ideas of who Jesus is that are not true," David continues. "We relate Christ to the idea of being judged or compared against an impossible standard. I want people to hear about a God who isn't standing there with His finger in their faces, but is simply there with His arms open wide saying, 'I just want to know you. Come to me, and I'll help you through this journey.'"
Every song on Revelation reveals God's mercy and compassion for His people. "Just As I Am," penned by David and award-winning songwriter Cindy Morgan, expresses Christ's loving acceptance of the broken, while "Arms Open Wide," a cut written by Rita Baloche [wife of Paul Baloche ("Above All," "Open the Eyes of My Heart")], praises the Savior for coming to redeem us. From the story of God's loving care as He shapes our lives and the universe in "Virtuoso" to the promise that "God Will Take Care Of You" and the tender ballad "Love Goes On," Revelation paints a portrait of who God really is, all superbly communicated through the expressive artistry of one of Christian music's finest vocalists.
Producers Regie Hamm (Bob Carlisle, Jaci Velasquez, Clay Crosse) and Chris Harris (Avalon, Anointed, Allen Asbury) had the task of guiding David's musical vision and wide tastes into the cohesive and compelling Revelation. The album's title cut is a dramatic, rock opera-styled song that provides a centerpiece, both musically and vocally, for David's talent. "I'm thrilled about this song, because it's a piece that I've spent a lot of time and effort to write," David says of "Revelation." "It represents so much of what I love about music." The song, which tells the story of a man much like David on the morning of Christ's return, reveals David's imaginative story-telling ability, and combines a myriad of his favorite influences, from rock to classical to "Bohemian Rhapsody."
David is making sure that his kids have the same musical opportunities he had by taking them on the road with him and Lori to his concerts. Lori homeschools their two daughters—eight-year-old Callie and six-year-old Maggie Beth—both at home and on tour in order to let them and three-year-old Grant spend more time with Dad. The couple are preparing for the arrival of a fourth little one, due to arrive just in time for the release of Revelation.
For an artist who makes nearly 150 concert appearances every year, the decision to educate their kids themselves was the only right one for them. "I'm gone pretty much every weekend, so I would never get to see my children!" says David. "Homeschooling allows us to pick up and go when we need to, and as a result, our kids have been able to see some wonderful things around the country."
And though one of the things his kids often see are the thousands of people who flock to hear him sing, David is careful to remind them that the walk of Christian faith, even when it's lived out before a national audience, is one of humble obedience. In the regal ballad "Live Like a King," written by Bob Halligan, Jr. (Kathy Mattea, Michael Bolton, Rebecca St. James), David beautifully conveys the paradox that marked Christ's reign here on earth, and that he hopes will always prove to be the example for his own life:
My thirst for the things of this earth, isn't quenched by diamonds or pearls/One man lived the life I want—He's the One they said ruled the world/Though He only wore a crown of thorns, and He never owned a thing…I want to live like a King!
Those words also reveal the purpose behind the tremendous talent God has placed in David's own life. Despite being given such great ability and opportunity, David Phelps is a man who will forever invest that gift in honor of its Giver.
Long Time Coming
David Phelps Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Ante up, time to let the trumpets sound
Crown me later, I'm a take my crown now
Been writing for 'bout 10 yrs now
And finally the real truth is coming out
You can't stop it 'cause this is God's plan
And now ya twisted, can't believe it's me
Get it, it's Leela sho nuff
It's been a long time since ya heard it like this
It's been a long time since ya felt it like this
It's been a long time since ya seen it like this
'Cause ain't nobody bringing it quite like this
I've been praying for a time like this
And I've been waiting for a time like this
I've been talking 'bout a time like this
A long time coming but you get it like this
Through the rain, through the pain I'm still around
Thank God kept me on solid ground
My ship started out with many aboard
But when the ? got rough they jumped ashore
I've seen many many many go and come
Even watched some of y'all faking the funk
But you can't lie, can't fake it, it's in your blood
Ya either got it or ya don't
It's been a long time since ya heard it like this
It's been a long time since ya felt it like this
It's been a long time since ya seen it like this
'Cause ain't nobody bringing it quite like this
I've been praying for a time like this
And I've been waiting for a time like this
I've been talking 'bout a time like this
A long time coming but you get it like this
Now, talk to the DJ, I said
Hey, DJ won't ya play my song
Keep it banging all night long
Hey, DJ won't ya play my song
Keep it banging all night long
Hey, DJ won't ya play my song
Keep it banging all night long
Hey, DJ won't ya play my song
Keep it banging all night long, all night long
It's been a long time since ya heard it like this
It's been a long time since ya felt it like this
It's been a long time since ya seen it like this
'Cause ain't nobody bringing it quite like this
And I've been praying for a time like this
And I've been waiting for a time like this
I've been talking 'bout a time like this
A long time coming but you get it like this
Sounds like something that you've had before
But it ain't really something that you've had before
Feels like something that you've felt before
But it ain't really something that you've felt before
Ain't really something that you've seen before
'Cause it sure ain't something that you've seen before
Been a long time coming, yeah
But the time surely has come
It's been a long time
DJ this is for you
Ain't nobody bringing it quite like this, now
Can you feel me, yeah
Been a long time
It's been a long time
It's been a long time
It's been a long time
The first verse of "Long Time Coming" by David Phelps speaks to the artist's sense of destiny and confidence in his talent. He implores his audience to "ante up" and listen to his message, suggesting that he is a king who is ready to claim his crown. Phelps reveals that he has been writing for about ten years and that he believes that his true mission is only now coming to fruition. He assures his listeners that they can't stop his success because it is part of God's plan.
The second verse of the song, Phelps acknowledges that his journey has not always been easy. He has been through the rain and the pain, but he has remained on solid ground. Phelps has seen many people come and go, and some even "faking the funk", or pretending to have talent they don't possess. However, Phelps suggests that true talent can't be faked or hidden, whether or not people believe in it.
The refrain of "Long Time Coming" is the artist's message of triumph, indicating that he has long been waiting and praying for his success. He reinforces the idea in the bridge by repeating that this moment has been a long time coming. By the end of the song, Phelps urges the DJ to keep playing his music, making it clear that he is here to stay and ready to claim his place in the music industry.
Line by Line Meaning
Ante up, time to let the trumpets sound
Time has come, prepare for greatness
Crown me later, I'm a take my crown now
I'll claim my deserved success later, but I am taking charge of it now
Been writing for 'bout 10 yrs now
My journey towards this moment began 10 years ago
And finally the real truth is coming out
The authenticity of my art is being revealed
You can't stop it 'cause this is God's plan
Resistance is futile because this is God's will
I know some of y'all just don't understand
I realise that some of you may not comprehend
And now ya twisted, can't believe it's me
You are surprised and may be in disbelief that it's actually me
Get it, it's Leela sho nuff
Understand that I am truly telling my story
It's been a long time since ya heard it like this
You haven't heard something like this in a while
It's been a long time since ya felt it like this
You haven't felt something like this in a while
It's been a long time since ya seen it like this
You haven't seen something like this in a while
'Cause ain't nobody bringing it quite like this
Nobody is delivering it like me
I've been praying for a time like this
I've been waiting for this moment
And I've been waiting for a time like this
I have been patiently anticipating this moment
I've been talking 'bout a time like this
I have been discussing and dreaming about this moment
A long time coming but you get it like this
It took a while, but here it is for you to enjoy
Through the rain, through the pain I'm still around
I persevered despite adversity
Thank God kept me on solid ground
I am grateful for His keeping me grounded
My ship started out with many aboard
I began my journey with many supporters
But when the ? got rough they jumped ashore
But when the situation became tough, they left me alone to deal with it
I've seen many many many go and come
I have seen many individuals come in and out of my life
Even watched some of y'all faking the funk
I have seen some of you pretending to be someone you are not
But you can't lie, can't fake it, it's in your blood
You cannot deceive yourself, it's a part of who you are
Ya either got it or ya don't
You either have the skills or not
Hey, DJ won't ya play my song
Requesting a DJ to play his song
Keep it banging all night long
Ensure that the music plays all night
Sounds like something that you've had before
Feels familiar
But it ain't really something that you've had before
Yet, it is different
Feels like something that you've felt before
Familiar feeling
But it ain't really something that you've felt before
Yet, it is different
Ain't really something that you've seen before
You've never seen anything like this before
'Cause it sure ain't something that you've seen before
This is something unique and unexperienced before
Been a long time coming, yeah
This moment took longer than expected
But the time surely has come
Finally, the time has arrived
DJ this is for you
Dedicated to the DJ
Can you feel me, yeah
Asking if the listeners can relate and connect to his music
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Warner/Chappell Music, Inc., Spirit Music Group, Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd., BMG Rights Management
Written by: GORDON WILLIAMS, KANYE WEST, LEELA JAMES, DWIGHT GRANT, GRAHAM NASH
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Deb Morris
This man of God will capture your heart, & you will be hooked for life to tune him in watch him sing , & be blessed beyond words! He is the best of the best “ of the best”, on the planet!! What a gift from God, & phenomenal talent, & those who have never seen David in person, make that a plan to do asap! You will be mesmerized on the videos, but blown away in person! He is truly anointed, & touched by God with God being the one uplifted, & seen through this blessed man! A powerful singer who can hit notes we never knew existed!! 😁👍🙏☝️❤️. We love you David! God bless you & your family! His girls…. I’m tellin ya…. Have voices out of this world too! Such blessings they all are!! Gifted by our Lord Jesus Christ!!! Forever fan…. Deb Morris from Centerville, Indiana.
renae232323
HALLELUJAH PRAISE GOD FOR YOU AND YOUR MINISTRY 🙌💙🙏🎤🎶💙🙌
Wil Landman
This is a great song David Phelps i love it and the backgroundsingers and musicans to PRAISE THE LORD FOR ALL THE TALENT Thank you David for sharing it with us 🎶🎵🎶🎵🎶🎵🎙🎻🎹🥁🎸💯💞MAY OUR LORD BLESS YOU ALL👑🙏
Sheila Howington
Another great performance but certainly not unexpected from such a gifted Man
Diane Hawkins
Love this song and David’s anointed voice! 💕
Brenda Toppin
Love this one too, infact i can't think of any I don’t love. God has surely blessed this man and his ministry. Thank you 😊
Agnus A
What a joy! Lyrics, team vocals, the band and the location worked together. Good one! Happy Father's Day.
Ginger Robinson
I second that he is best of best on planet. He does it all to sum it onyo one word HE IS PENOMINAL!!!! You cannot listen 2 any of his masterpieces and not be moved awesome love him
Mary Dearing
Love this… love the up beat… plus it was videoed at the Alabama Theater in Birmingham, Al… Love this whole album… it’s great and I’ve almost worn mine out !!!!!😊💕👏💕👏💕👏
Roberto Nieto
Excelente como siempre David!!! Muchas gracias!