Michael Whitaker Smith is a highly influential American musician, singer, songwriter, and worship leader, widely recognized for his profound impact on both contemporary Christian music and mainstream charts. Born on October 7, 1957, in Kenova, West Virginia, U.S., he discovered his passion for music and faith at a young age, learning piano and singing in his church choir. After a period of personal struggles, Smith rededicated his life to Christ in 1979. He has been married to Deborah Kay Davis since September 5, 1981, and they have five children.

Smith’s musical career, spanning over four decades, encompasses Contemporary Christian Music (CCM), Christian Rock, Pop, and Pop Rock. He initially gained recognition as a songwriter for artists like Amy Grant before launching his solo recording career in 1983 with The Michael W. Smith Project on Reunion Records. He achieved mainstream success with hits like “Place in This World” in 1991. Throughout his prolific career, he has garnered numerous accolades, including three Grammy Awards, an American Music Award, and over 45 Dove Awards. His extensive discography includes instrumental, live worship, and studio albums, released under labels such as Reunion, Provident, Capitol, and his own Rocketown Records. Beyond music, Smith is also an author, actor, and philanthropist, having founded Rocketown, a youth outreach facility, and championed causes like AIDS relief in Africa through Compassion International.