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The Hawkeye

The Student News Site of University of Louisiana Monroe

The Hawkeye

The Student News Site of University of Louisiana Monroe

The Hawkeye

Hillsong United:‘The most popular band you’ve never heard of’

Spirit lead me where my trust is without borders. Let me walk upon the waters, wherever You would call me. Take me deeper than my feet could ever wander and my faith will be made stronger in the presence of my savior.”

These strong lyrics were made famous by Hillsong United, a Christian band that started off as a small church band in Sydney, Australia.

“Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)” was released by the band in 2013 and was the number one Christian song for 45 consecutive weeks making it the longest running number one on the Christian charts in history.

The song was only passed by Carrie Underwood’s “Something in the Water.” “Oceans” soon dethroned “Something in the Water” and remained number one for another five weeks for a total of 50 non-consecutive weeks.

Hillsong United has now released their first concert documentary, “Hillsong: Let Hope Rise.”

The film was released in theaters on September 16.

The film tells the story of how they got their start as a small church band, to going on their first tour, to writing the song that changed their lives forever, to the everyday struggles and how they keep God first through it all.

This film is truly inspiring and heartfelt. You can really see their love of God and hear it in their music.

None of them view themselves as rock stars. Their goal is not fame or fortune; it is worship. In fact, they describe themselves as “worship leaders” rather than band members.

All of them have great humility, refusing to buy into the rock-and-roll lifestyle or view themselves as anything other than messengers of God’s word.

“God created music for the sole purpose to connect the human heart, our soul, with heaven,” band leader Joel Houston said.

The musicianship is excellent all the way around, but Hillsong United’s secret weapon is Taya Smith. She has an extraordinary voice.

The documentary’s highlight is the performance of “Oceans.” She hit a high note at the end that I could literally feel in my spirit.

The film magnificently shows how the band’s music has touched lives everywhere.

While the rest of us are looking for our oceans, Hillsong United is making waves.

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