With its infectious lyrics and uplifting message, “Way Maker” has swept nations and taken over the Christian music community, sparking several covers by some of today’s biggest and upcoming Christian music artists.

Originating from Nigeria, Pentecostal worship leader and songwriter, Osinachi Kalu Okoro Egbu (going by the stage name Sinach) originally released “Way Maker” back in 2015. It’s been viewed over 150 million times on Facebook and has held the number one spot on Billboard’s Christian Airplay chart for 12 weeks in a row. Sinach is the first female to hold this spot, ever.

The anthem made its way to America, in February 2020, when @Michael W. Smith released his version of “Way Maker,” which then inspired other artists to do the same. Some of these versions have also made it onto Billboard’s Christian Airplay top 10 list, a few at the same time.

“Way Maker” has been translated into 50 different languages, spreading hope and faith in a year of global distress. Nominated in multiple categories at this years’ 51st Annual GMA Dove Awards, including Song of the Year, here are five different versions of “Way Maker” you have to hear.

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SINACH (Original Version)

Nigerian singer, songwriter, and senior worship leader at Loveworld, Sinach has become a gospel genius. Having written hundreds of worship songs, including “Way Maker,” Sinach’s song has taken the world by storm and is one you don’t want to miss. On March 7, 2019, it passed the 100 million views mark, making her the first Gospel singer to achieve this feat.

MICHAEL W. SMITH

Michael W. Smith’s version of “Way Maker” was first heard on K-LOVE earlier this year. His rendition not only touched the hearts of our listeners but those of other nations. After the success of his version, Smith woke up one evening and decided to sing “Way Maker” in Italian. That second translation turned into 48 other languages and propelling the song to greater popularity.

“Here we are in this crazy, unprecedented time,” Smith says, “and I just think it’s become people’s go-to song. It gives people hope.”

LEELAND

“There’s something powerful about the chorus because you’re basically singing the names of God. And when you sing the names of God, you’re singing hope over your life, family, city… It just brings hope in the room.” @Leeland said of the song.

Leeland’s 8-minute live version of “Way Maker” makes you want to be in the crowd. Leeland came across the song a few years ago, when his mother—actually—stumbled upon the song on Facebook. Sharing with the family, the song became a staple sung in their home church.

“It didn’t matter what the demographics of the people were or what denomination the church was,” Leeland says. “Every time we sang “Way Maker,” everyone would latch onto it too. “

Leeland’s version of “Way Maker” has been nominated as Worship Recorded Song of the Year at this year’s 51st GMA Dove Awards.

MANDISA

Having ended 2019 in a strong way with her last album, Mandisa went on to release her version, and single, of “Way Maker” in early 2020. Her soft approach to the song’s lyrics touched hearts deeply.

“There’s something really powerful about declaring who God is over specific circumstances,” said Mandisa of the song. “I’ll never forget being in church as the worship team led us in singing ‘Way Maker’. At the time, I was praying for three of my friends who were facing seemingly impossible situations. With outstretched arms, tears streaming down my face, and faith rising in my heart, I proclaimed that my God is a Way Maker, Miracle Worker, Promise Keeper, and Light in the Darkness. I believe every word of this song and love singing it with my whole heart!”

PASSION

Sharing God’s message with the next generation through Christian music is the base on which Passion was born. Their rendition of “Way Maker,” featuring Kari Jobe, Cody Carnes, and accompanied by Kristian Stanfill, raised hope at Passion’s 2020 live event. There is something magical about this song, and when bringing multiple artists together to sing it, you can’t help but shed a tear over its beauty.

You can watch the 51st Annual GMA Dove Awards on Friday, October 30 at 5 PM Pacific (7 PM Central / 8 PM Eastern), or stream it for free with K-LOVE On Demand.

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