Best of 2007
By Ken Canedo
This is the season when magazines and newspapers compile their "Best of the Year" lists. Rolling Stone has its "Album of the Year. Time magazine has its "Person of the Year." Entertainment Weekly even has a "Celebrity Meltdown of the Year."
These lists are highly subjective, and it is in this spirit that I present my own "Best of 2007" list. I can't possibly name everyone, and I apologize in advance to folks who might feel hurt that I didn't mention them. I figure they can return the favor by not mentioning me in their own lists.
Debut Album of the Year: Invitation by Jenny Pixler
If you haven't heard this CD yet, what are you waiting for? It's a stunning debut, and you can hear Jenny talk about her songs at this podcast.
Most Poignant Track of the Year: Columbine Testimony by Steve Angrisano,
from his new Live: Songs from the Road CD. Steve was there as a youth minister during the Columbine tragedy. He shares a moving story about one of the teen survivors.
Funniest Podcast of the Year: Jesse Manibusan Explains It All to You,
in which Mr. Smiley waxes eloquently on faith, music, sushi, and Pluto's expulsion from the solar system.
Most Impactful Album Title of the Year: Impact by Chris Padgett.
Check out his Bible-sharing video, too. (Scroll down)
Most Compelling Spirit Spot Series of the Year: Sarah Hart's Catholic Mom series
Unsung Singing Hero of the Year: Tom Booth
for his tireless behind-the-scenes direction of the NCYC house band year after year. He's turned out to be a great Spirit Spot columnist, too.
Awesome Gift of the Year: Curtis and Lindsay Stephan's new son Brody
Curtis talks about Brody half-way through this NCYC Podcast.
Most Heartfelt Song of the Year: I'm Not Dude, I'm Dad,
Bob Halligan, Jr.'s song to his son Liam.
Band of the Year (3-way Tie):
All three bands kicked serious rock and left audiences hungry for more!
Groundbreaking New spiritandsong.com Artist: Santiago Fernandez,
whose exciting bilingual music is reaching out across a multicultural audience.
Most Dynamic Concert Presence: ValLimar Jansen,
who really shined at NCYC. Drop everything and see her concert next time she is in your city.
Utility Player of the Year: Angus McDonell,
who played bass for just about everybody at NCYC.
Boss of the Year: Robert Feduccia
No, I'm not trying to score points. Robert really is a terrific boss who is so dedicated to the ministry of spiritandsong.com. His Spirit Spot Music Industry column debuted this year.
Most Touching Moment of the Year: Praying for Veronica Gantt at the NCYC Opening Ceremony.
Person of the Year: It was no contest! Jesus Christ our Lord
Christ yesterday and today,
the beginning and the end,
Alpha and Omega,
all time belongs to him,
and all ages;
to him be glory and power,
through every age and for ever. Amen.
- Blessing of the Easter Candle
A Holy and Happy New Year from all of us at spiritandsong.com!