Total Praise - Richard Smallwood -

Smallwood turned to for the foundation of the lyrics. The scripture— "I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help" —became the opening of a modern hymn that acknowledged the "storm" while centering God as the "source of strength". A Global Anthem

Genesis of a Gospel Song: 'Total Praise' | Deep Roots Magazine Total Praise - Richard Smallwood

In , Richard Smallwood was enduring one of the darkest periods of his life. He was serving as a primary caregiver for two people he loved dearly: his mother, who was battling dementia , and his godbrother, who was terminally ill with cancer . Smallwood turned to for the foundation of the lyrics

The story behind "Total Praise" by is a powerful testament to finding faith in the middle of heartbreak. Here is the narrative of how this legendary gospel anthem came to be. The Season of Sorrow He was serving as a primary caregiver for

One afternoon, while sitting at his piano feeling broken and "left by God," Smallwood sat down with the intention of writing a song that reflected his pain. He wanted to write a "pity-party song" to express his frustration and sorrow.