The first thing you notice about JJ Helle… Read Full Bio ↴By Kierstin Casella (2006)
The first thing you notice about JJ Heller is a wide grin that stretches across her face and welcomes you in as a friend, whether you’ve known her for years or are shaking her hand for the very first time. These days especially, the twenty-five year old west coast native has a lot to be happy about.
In March 2006, she independantly released her third record (scheduled for national release in November 2006), Only Love Remains, showcasing her pure, penetrating voice, and opening the door to a bold new range of songs. JJ, along with her husband Dave (who serves as guitarist, manager, and co-writer) recorded the distinctive album at Nashville’s Sputnik Sound with Grammy-winning producer Mitch Dane (Jars of Clay, Bebo Norman.)
“I found that JJ has an unadulterated approach to song writing. Her songs actually spoke to me, where a lot of Christian music is the same message with different words,” explains Dane. “[JJ and Dave] live their art, and I never felt like they were trying too hard to be something they weren't.”
In addition to JJ and Dave’s prominent talents, Only Love Remains features Bryan Sutton (Dixie Chicks, The Chieftains) on mandolin, guitar and banjo; David Henry (Over the Rhine) on cello; Ben Shive (Andrew Peterson) on piano; Andy Hubbard (Little Big Town, Fernando Ortega) on drums, Aaron Sands (Jars of Clay) on bass; with Jeremy Casella (singer/songwriter) and Andrew Osenga (Caedmon’s Call) on guitars/backing vocals.
Only Love Remains follows Heller’s 2005 EP, Collection of Thoughts, and her debut release, Songs That I Know (2004.)
JJ began her career nearly six years ago at San Jose Christian College where she dabbled in songwriting and performed at local coffeehouses. After graduating, JJ and Dave got married and relocated to Phoenix to pursue music full time. In August of 2006, they moved to Nashville, TN where they currently reside. The combination of Dave’s business sense and creative input, and JJ’s loose artistic style drives their success.
“We’re definitely two halves of a whole,” she explains. “I write the bulk of the lyrics and Dave is the editor and arranger, making the songs more effective. He also does everything on the business side, which is great because it frees me up to be creative.”
For Only Love Remains, the pair focused on a braver songwriting style, departing slightly from JJ’s prior introspective lyrics and exploring story-songs about the lives around them. Musically, they pulled influence from artists like Damien Rice and Over the Rhine, with a lyrical intricacy akin to Patty Griffin. The result is an exceptional collection of songs that is warm and engaging with a little bit of edge.
In writing material for the new release, JJ poured her every day observations into her songbook: stories she heard while traveling, and those nearer to her heart. “This album is all about redemption,” observes JJ. “ Looking back on the songs, there’s a lot of struggle written into them because that’s life. Everyone has different problems to face, but in the end, the outcome hinges on how you deal with those struggles-- if you allow them to destroy you or make you stronger.”
Perhaps it’s her insight and sensitivity that consistently draw a female audience to JJ’s music. She touches on issues of self-image and worry, questions of faith, and feelings of loneliness; her songs resonate with women and offer encouragement. But JJ’s music connects with people from all walks of life. Whether performing in a quaint coffeehouse, at a weekend retreat, or a Sunday morning church service for 1000 people, the Hellers aim to be themselves wherever they go. They maintain a balance of light-hearted humor and poignant dialogue with their listeners.
As an artist, JJ Heller is a mix of eclectic and down-to-earth: from her jeans and t-shirt style to the way she pushes her own boundaries. When it comes to her music, she never settles.
"Music has a way of speaking to my heart like nothing else can," JJ says. "It is my hope and prayer that my songs will somehow speak to my listeners and bring them hope, peace and inspiration."
All I Need
JJ Heller Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
My good Shepherd brings me all
You are all I need
You let me catch my breath
Even in the valley of death
You are all I need
Is Your love
Your blood that covers me
You lift up my head
You provide the wine and bread
You, You are all I need
There's no need to fear
Even with my enemies here
You are all I need
All I need to be complete
Is Your love
Your blood that covers me
Goodness and mercy are following me
You're all that I need
You make a home for me
Where pastures are green as far as I see
You are all I need
All I need to be complete
Is Your love
Your blood that covers me
In the song “All I Need” by JJ Heller, the lyrics express a deep dependence on God. The first verse declares that the singer doesn't need anything because their “good Shepherd”, which is a reference to Psalm 23, provides everything they need. The second verse acknowledges that even in the darkest moments, God provides rest and refreshment. The chorus emphasizes the importance of God’s love and the redemption that comes through Jesus’ blood. The bridge expresses the comfort and protection that God provides, and ends with a final affirmation that God is truly everything the singer needs.
The lyrics in this song are simple yet powerful, providing a message of hope and reliance on God. It acknowledges that life can be hard and challenging, but God remains constant and faithful. The main theme of this song is the unchanging love and protection of God, which is all that the singer needs to feel whole and complete.
Overall, the song “All I Need” by JJ Heller is an anthem of gratitude and surrender to God. It invites the listener to trust in God’s goodness and find peace in His presence, no matter what life throws at them. The song’s message is relatable and approachable, encouraging the listener to put their faith in God and find rest in His love.
Line by Line Meaning
Don't need a thing
I have everything I need through my relationship with my shepherd.
My good Shepherd brings me all
I trust in my shepherd to provide everything I need in life.
You are all I need
My faith in you is all I need to feel whole.
You let me catch my breath
Even during the toughest times, you allow me to rest and rejuvenate.
Even in the valley of death
You provide comfort and safety in the darkest of times.
All I need to be complete
My life is fulfilled when I am surrounded by your love and protection.
Is Your love
Your love is all-encompassing and provides me with true happiness.
Your blood that covers me
Your sacrifice gives me strength and security, knowing that I am forgiven.
You lift up my head
You provide me with support and guidance during times of struggle.
You provide the wine and bread
You nourish my mind, body, and soul with spiritual sustenance.
There's no need to fear
With your protection, I am safe and secure.
Even with my enemies here
I am not afraid when faced with adversity, because you are always with me.
Goodness and mercy are following me
I am blessed with your grace, even during difficult times.
You're all that I need
No matter what happens in my life, I know that you will provide everything I need.
You make a home for me
Through my faith in you, I have a sense of belonging and comfort.
Where pastures are green as far as I see
My life is filled with abundance and prosperity when I trust in you.
Contributed by Christopher A. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
Hannah Keller
I’m still finding JJ Heller songs that I love!
JessyVlogs
What a lovely song! ❤ Thank you JJ Heller
Angels
Wonderful song and beautiful voice
Ed Wooltorton
Well done great song great lyrics great harmony
Jose Eduardo Copete
Hermosa canción