Billy's "One Voice"
by Dean
Having heard the title and bonus tracks on Billy's single, plus read the
lyrics to the rest of the songs, one would think you'd have a pretty good
idea what to expect from the album. That, however, is not the case with
Billy's debut album, "One Voice." Billy has an outstanding voice and a
phenomenal talent that brings each of the songs to life in a way that's
uniquely Billy's.
The fast, almost rock-styling of "Little Things" at the beginning of the
CD, does more than just get your attention. It brings you into it, wanting
to hear more of this young talented voice.
"I Think She Likes Me" keeps the pace upbeat with a young look at that
'first love' and all the wonder and magic that goes with it.
Moving to a slower ballad, we have "What's Forever For." It's a touching
song that when sung by Billy, brilliantly expresses the confusion and
questioning an older child can go through when faced with the breakup of
his/her parents' marriage.
"One Voice" keeps us looking through the eyes of a child, and shows us
some of what children are faced with today. That child asks for help, and
shows us the results of prayer.
With "Spend Another Night" we get another magical look into first love,
and the feelings that we all felt that first time when we said: "I'm
never gonna spend another night, without you in my dreams."
The classic rock song, "Little Bitty Pretty One," brings the pace back up
as Billy lets loose and has just a great time.
What else would an 11-year-old have on his mind but fun and snakes? "The
Snake Song" combines those two things with a comical look at a snake
falling in love in a garden. Just be sure not to miss the punch line at
the end.
"I Wanna Get To Ya" keeps things rockin' with an energy and excitement
that just makes you want to get up and dance, even if you're like me and
don't dance. 8-)
"Oklahoma" has to be one of the most touching heartfelt ballads of all
time, bringing adults and youth to tears. Billy tells the story of a
young boy who finally gets to meet the father he's dreamed of for so long,
and more importantly that father's wanting him in his life.
I feel "There's A Hero" is perfectly matched to follow "Oklahoma." It
reminds us that there's a hero in all of us, and all we have to do is
trust ourselves and follow our dreams.
The bonus track on the CD is the classic Tammy Wynette song, "'Til I Can
Make It On My Own," which Billy does brilliantly.
If nothing else, it can easily be said that this album doesn't just
highlight Billy's talent and abilities. It showcases them in a nice little
package. But it really is so much more than that. Never has a CD, or artist
for that matter, had me laughing hysterically through one song, to being
in tears a short time later in another song. Billy's one voice gives
itself beautifully to all the songs on the CD, and reminds us all what's
important: life, love and happiness.
© 2000 Dean All Rights Reserved (08/19/00)
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