By Jennifer Taylor
For over two decades, Kim Walker-Smith has led worship with powerful anthems like “Rooftops,” “Spirit Break Out,” and “Throne Room.”
As the holiday season approaches, many revisit her 10-year-old album When Christmas Comes. Recently, Kim’s life has transformed significantly.
After relocating her family from California to Montana, she embraced a slower pace, focusing on family and drawing inspiration for her first independent studio album, Trample, released in June 2024.
A Journey of Beginnings
Transitioning from 21 years in local church ministry to independent worship leading was a significant change for Kim. “It was a huge shift and change, and it was a really challenging season at first,” she reflected. Despite the challenges, Trample continues her timeless tradition, offering 12 thoughtful and intentional songs inspired by her family’s move and personal growth.
Deep Roots for New Seasons
Kim’s diverse musical upbringing, with a mother who loved pop and a father who favored country, influenced Trample‘s sound. “When we’re not listening to Christian or worship music, it’s country music that we’re listening to,” she shared, noting the album’s subtle country flavors reflecting her Montana lifestyle.
The track “Mama” stands out with its sassy tone, addressing the modern challenges of parenting. Kim expresses concern over societal influences on children, emphasizing the need for vigilance. An encounter with a critical grandmother at a grocery store inspired the song.
“The Lord just dropped it in my heart,” she recalled, leading her to collaborate with fellow songwriting mothers to complete the track. “I just wanted moms to have a voice,” she said, highlighting the importance of knowing Scripture.
Classic Sound. Fresh Perspectives.
Trample also features the piano-driven ballads that fans cherish. Kim requested an extended worship edition, capturing spontaneous moments in the studio.
“We did it in just one shot, and I worshipped my heart out in that little space,” she shared. She hopes listeners will sense an overarching message of freedom in the album. “We are not stuck, bound by the enemy, and we have authority over the enemy so let’s step into that,” she asserted.
To promote Trample, Kim teamed up with fellow worship artist Jon Reddick for the “Testify Tour,” hitting 16 cities nationwide in fall 2024.
Each night is designed to lead attendees into impactful worship and share testimonies of God’s work. “My whole goal is that they don’t leave the same way they came in,” she emphasized.
Embracing a Sacred Responsibility
Leading worship today is both an honor and a responsibility for Kim.
“We’re in a war against principalities and powers, not people,” she noted, aiming to equip the Church to stand boldly in challenging times. She feels a profound duty to prepare the Bride for Jesus, ensuring her words align with His teachings. “I want to bring encouragement, hope, strength, and freedom to the body,” she declares.
Through her music and ministry, Kim Walker-Smith continues to guide believers into deeper worship and a greater understanding of God’s freedom and power.
To find out more about Kim Walker Smith’s new album Trample, go to kimwalkersmith.com.
