Christian artist releases album at area church

Nearly 200 people filled ConnectionPoint Church in Jackson on Sunday night to see local singer/songwriter Adelaide perform songs from her new album, "The Bigger Picture."

Laura Kelly Respondek, who goes by the stage name Adelaide, has been a member of the ConnectionPoint congregation for over two years, has lived in the area for over a decade and has been making inspirational music for more than 20 years.

Her introduction to music came from her time in church and, she said, it's a more satisfying way to worship.

But now, with a little help from the Bernie, Missouri-based singers The Brothers Walker, her music is becoming a professional endeavor as well. "The Bigger Picture" was recorded in the Walker brothers' studio. They had a hand in producing it and helped her perform the songs Sunday night.

"We first met Laura, it seems like forever ago. ... She really had an open heart, and God had given her these lyrics. I listened to it and was like, 'Oh my gosh, this is really cool,'" said Coty Walker, remembering the first time Adelaide played her music to the brothers. "It's impossible not to be moved by these songs. They come from the heart."

When Adelaide began performing, the audience seemed to be moved, as the entire crowd stood and began to clap with her and her backing band, the Sikeston, Missouri-based Unto the Hills.

Most of the music Adelaide performed Sunday was filled with a reassuring and hopeful message. She said during the show when writing songs, she tends to draw inspiration not only from her faith, but from personal struggles as well.

"This has been such an adventure," she said during the concert, referring to the recording and life itself. "It's a total journey, but here we are."

During one song, as the band faded into an interlude, she told audience members not to be discouraged by the world they live in.

"You can't turn on the news or Facebook or social media or even grab a paper without getting disheartened," she said. "But God has not abandoned us. We have to step out and be the light. You're unstoppable in the hands of God."

A portion of the proceeds from the concert went to missionary organization Heart for Africa. During the show, members who had made mission trips shared their stories. Their message of compassion and hope fit well with the tone of Adelaide's performance.

"It's my story, sure," Adelaide told the crowd. "But it's yours, too."

Those who attended the concert received a copy of "The Bigger Picture." Those interested can find it online at iTunes and Amazon.com.

"This album is me, at all different times of my life," she said. "Each song has a different, but deep, meaning. I pray the tracks speak to all walks of life, encouraging them, giving them hope and reminding them they aren't alone in this world."

tgraef@semissourian.com

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