“On the Way” – Luther Wardlaw

“On the Way”
Luther Wardlaw
Ascension Records (release date: May 21, 2021)

By Robert M. Marovich

If you’re expecting Martin Luther Wardlaw’s “On the Way” to thrum with the downhome vibe of the Wardlaw Brothers, his family’s quartet, you’re going to be surprised.

“On the Way” is a warm pop-inspired ballad sung passionately by Luther as a team of background vocalists affirm his lyrics and go higher when he goes higher. His experience scoring films is in evidence throughout the song.

Luther encourages listeners to be still and know that God sees their pain and has designs for them that “are bigger than you’ve ever known.” It reminds me of John Lennon’s oft-quoted comment: “Everything will be okay in the end. If it’s not okay, it’s not the end.”

The single is Luther’s first solo outing and first on his Ascension Records. Are we seeing another Paul Porter moment here?