Maya Minwary
Contributing Writer
When Bebo Norman first came to Pepperdine, he was just an opening act for Caedmon’s Call. But his music became an instant hit among the crowds. Perhaps it was his smooth and mellow voice or his ability to charm the audience. Whatever the reason, Bebo has been asked to perform at Pepperdine several times.
After a one-year hiatus, Bebo returned to Smother’s Theatre as the headline artist for the annual spring concert on campus. Now married with a successful career as a pop-folk artist, the concert proves Bebo has still maintained his ability to captivate his viewers with his genuine, witty stories and soothing voice.
New artist Sarah Kelly was the surprising act of the night. Her passionate voice and edgy modern rock music is very unique, especially in the Christian music genre. Her songs were bold and powerful, yet refreshingly honest.
Like Kelly, Shawn McDonald, the next opening act, performed impressively. His more worship style of music was a crowd pleaser. The violin background added a nice, classic touch to his songs.
After a short intermission, the audience returned to hear Bebo after his time off from touring. The Georgia-born singer played some old favorites along with new tracks from his recent album “Try.”
Bebo has still got it. His acoustic performance at Smothers made the atmosphere very intimate. There wasn’t a full band for any of the acts that night, but it didn’t matter. Bebo still joked about his grandfather Grover before he sang “All I Have Sown,” a classic Bebo song from his third album, “Big Blue Sky.” His songs were all very transparent that night. Bebo sang “Try,” one of two songs on his new album about falling in love with his wife after several years of being single.
Throughout the night, Bebo was honest about his doubts and fears as revealed in his songs and anecdotes. He told the audience about a recent trip to see the child he sponsored through Compassion International, a Christian relief organization, and how it was a trip full of paradox.
Nevertheless, he encouraged his audience to support the organization that brings physical and spiritual necessities to developing countries.
The highlight of Bebo’s performance was an acoustic version of “Yes I Will,” which was originally recorded for “The Passion of the Christ” soundtrack. The acoustic rendition was very compelling.
Overall, the Bebo concert was evocative and enjoyable. Having come here for several years now, Bebo has almost become a Pepperdine tradition as calling the Waves Café, the “Caf.” Student Activities still needs to work on better advertisement, though. The many posters and e-mail announcements were great for the students, but outside ticket-buyers complained about conflicting times posted on the artists’ web site and on their ticket.
They also complained about lack of information about who was performing that night.
Nevertheless, most who came to see the show enjoyed the performances by Kelly, McDonald and, of course, Bebo.
03-17-2005
