If you asked me who some of my favorite artists are right now, without hesitation I would say Natalie Grant, Nichole Nordeman and Britt Nicole. I know many of my friends haven't heard of them. I love to introduce people to these artists because they just might love their music too.

Grant, Nordeman and Nicole are widely known in the mainstream Christian contemporary music world. There is so much talent in and outside of the church. This week, I wanted to share some artists with you who are not LDS but are fellow Christians with a faith-promoting message.

In addition, I think LDS artists can be inspired by other Christian musicians. Their music has definitely inspired the way I write my songs. The Christian contemporary music genre has developed and grown in popularity over the last 50 years. I see that same development and increase in popularity happening in LDS music in the next 50 years. So we can look at the strengths of CCM music and integrate them into ours.



If you are looking for fresh, hip music with a positive message for yourself or your teenagers, here are three great suggestions. Or if you are a songwriter in need of a little musical inspiration, I hope that this will help.

Natalie Grant

Natalie Grant is my favorite singer/songwriter. I fell in love with her music a couple years ago when I heard "In Better Hands" on the radio. Grant's music recognizes human imperfections and adversity, but always has an overlying positive theme that Christ is our hope and our strength.

My favorite Grant songs: "Perfect People," "Our Hope Endures," "The Real Me" and "In Better Hands." Listen here: http://www.myspace.com/nataliegrant

Nichole Nordeman

Honest, hopeful lyrics that can turn a frustrated mood upside down and help you have a more positive outlook are the stamp of Nichole Nordeman's music. Her melodies are unforgettable, but her optimistic and poetic lyrics are what really stand out.

My favorite Nordeman songs: "Why," "Every Season," "Legacy" and "Finally Free." Listen here: http://www.myspace.com/nicholenordeman

Britt Nicole

Britt Nicole is my most recent favorite discovery. I bought a couple of her songs a year ago. But when I heard the single from her latest album released in August, it blew me out of the water. I pre-purchased her album on iTunes, and I have been listening to it ever since. You can hear her honesty and faith in every note.

My favorites from Nicole are: "Walk On Water," "The Lost Get Found," "Set the World on Fire" and "Have Your Way." Listen here: http://brittnicole.sparrowrecords.com/

Well, there you have it. These are three artists whose music I never get tired of. I turn it on when I need a pick-me-up. I turn it on when I need an extra reminder that I can completely trust God and things will be OK. And as a songwriter, I turn it on when I need some extra inspiration. It reminds me to be honest in my writing -- not afraid to acknowledge my imperfections because that is why I need my Savior.

I'd love to hear your responses to their music and who your favorite artists are. Feel free to e-mail me and let me know what you think of their music.

Nicole Sheahan is a singer/songwriter and is studying media music at Brigham Young University. She welcomes your comments at nicolesheahan9@gmail.com.