"It's Not Over " by Chris Daughtry
Reviewed by: Krystal Burns
Note: We focus on reviewing songs, and therefore cannot comment on the appropriateness of the album in its entirety. Please use your best judgment whenever purchasing or listening to music.
The Artist
Chris Daughtry -- the infamous rocker from season five of “American Idol” -- has made the most of his newfound fame. What many don’t know is that Daughtry once belonged to a Christian rock band called Absent Element. They self-produced two albums that explored various struggles with faith. He was living in North Carolina when he flew out to Denver to audition for the show. Although Simon voted against him, Daughtry made it to Hollywood anyway. He didn’t win, but the fourth runner-up spot earned him fans all across America. When not touring, he continues to live in North Carolina with his wife and two children.
The Album
The self-titled CD debuted November 21, 2006, at number two on the Billboard charts, and it remains one of the most downloaded albums on iTunes. There’s been some speculation as to whether or not this release is “Christian,” but this is largely based on the fact that Daughtry was previously part of a Christian band rather than the album itself. Still, the album is much more positive than those of many of the alternative rock groups out there.
The Song
“It’s Not Over” is a song about not giving up. Despite making plenty of mistakes and struggling to find the positive in the situation, he’s not going to let go. “I try to see the good in life… Can we make this something good? I’ll try to do it right this time around/ It’s not over.”
While the song seems to be about a relationship, perseverance is a virtue we need in every aspect of life. Daughtry sings about not giving up, but too often we approach situations with a let’s-play-it-by-ear mentality rather than determination. I can’t even tell you how many times I’ve started guitar lessons only to give up a few days (yes, days) later. Why? Because it takes hard work and patience, and I’d rather do things that are fun and come easily. With most things in life, you have to put in the hard work before you see the benefits.
Whatever the situation, be it a hobby, a friendship, or even schoolwork, what would be the difference if we were determined not to give up? I know I’d probably be good enough at guitar that it would actually be fun to play! As Daughtry sings, “Being strong, holding on/ Can’t let it bring us down… So I won’t give up that easily.”
Sticking with something even when it’s tough is what helps us grow up and develop character. “Don’t try to get out of anything prematurely. Let it do its work so you become mature and well-developed, not deficient in any way.” (James 1:4, The Message) If there’s something you are tempted to quit, spend some time praying over the pro’s and the con’s of giving up on it. Obviously some things we should immediately stop if they’re not in line with God’s Word, but a lot of times we simply give up too easily.
So What Do You Think?
1. Lots of fans were mad that Chris never made it to the “American Idol” final. Do you think the competition is fair?
2. Have you ever heard any songs by his former band, Absent Element?
3. What are some things you’ve given up on? Do you wish you hadn’t?
4. Is there anything these days you feel like quitting?