DC Talk is the first studio album by the Christian vocal trio DC Talk, released on June 13, 1989 by ForeFront Records. Their debut album at the time was first distributed by Benson Music, then later this album and subsequent releases would be distributed by EMI Christian Music Group (now Capitol Christian Music Group). The album is produced by Ron W. Griffin and trio member Toby Mckeehan.
It is the most hip hop-oriented of all of their albums as each later album gradually progressed into a more rock-centered sound. Michael Tait stated that their original goal for the album was to sell 10,000 units. DC Talk sold more than 7,100 copies in 1989. After their popularity spiked with the release of Free at Last, back sales increased although it is the only album to not reach RIAA gold status.
The album's opening track provided the majority of the album's relative sales success. "Heavenbound" was originally recorded for the group's independently released cassette demo, Christian Rhymes to a Rhythm, which featured only Tait and McKeehan. It was re-recorded after Kevin Max was added to the group just prior to this release. The album received a sales boost after the music video for "Heavenbound" received major airplay on the BET network's hip-hop show: "Rap City." The second but minor hit was "Spinnin' Round" featuring their friend and beatboxer Mike "DJ Valet Beat" Valliere who beatboxed on both "Final Days" and "Time Ta Jam."
In 1991, DC Talk finally placed in the Top 10 after entering the chart on and off at number 10 on the Billboard Top Christian Albums chart. DC Talk earned their first Dove Award nomination for Short Form Music Video of the Year for "Heavenbound" at the 21st GMA Dove Awards.
Track listing
All songs written by Toby McKeehan, except where noted.
1. Heavenbound -3:54
2. Gah Ta Be -3:58
3. Final Days -4:09
4. The King (Alleluia) -4:11
5. Spinnin' Round -3:49
6. Voices Praise Him (Toby McKeehan, Richard Hartine) -3:52
7. Time Ta Jam -2:03
8. He Loves Me (Toby McKeehan, Richard Hartine) -5:11
Personnel
DC Talk:
Toby McKeehan -rap
Michael Tait -vocals
Kevin Max -vocals
Watch the music video of "Heavenbound" here:
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