“Lord and Friend” is a powerful track from CeCe Winans’ live album, More Than This, which was released on April 26, 2024, on the Puresprings Gospel label. As a leading figure in Contemporary Gospel music, Winans has a long and storied career, both as a solo artist and as part of the iconic duo BeBe & CeCe Winans. The album features a 13-song tracklist that captures a vibrant live worship experience, including “Lord and Friend,” “Be Still and Know,” “Too Late To Lose,” “Oh The Blood of Jesus,” “Holy Forever,” “Worthy,” “That’s My King,” “More Than This” (featuring Todd Dulaney), “Sanctuary,” “Refiner,” “Come Jesus Come,” “Is He Worthy?,” and “In A Little While.” This song, in particular, highlights Winans’ ability to deliver a message of deep intimacy and friendship with God, which is a common theme throughout her extensive and celebrated discography.
The impact of “Lord and Friend” lies in its ability to connect with listeners on a personal level, serving as a reminder of God’s dual nature as both a powerful ruler and a close companion. The song’s live recording captures a raw and spiritual energy that is characteristic of Winans’ recent work, particularly following her highly successful live album Believe for It. While the track doesn’t feature a guest artist, it stands strong on its own, showcasing the unwavering power of Winans’ voice and her profound lyrical sincerity. The release of More Than This and this song continues to demonstrate her enduring influence in the gospel music world, inspiring a new generation of worshippers with her timeless sound and message.