Michael Maurice Smith, a “gifted communicator” with a “wonderful voice” grew up in the Low Country of Charleston, South Carolina as a “PK” (preacher’s kid) and indulged in the world of music, recording and producing his first project by age 14. Michael recalls, “as far as I can remember, I was told stories about how I would be placed on a chair in church to sing duets with my sister. She would play the piano and I would sing. I was too small to be seen.” With Gullah as part of his roots, immersed within the church and strategically placed within God’s plan, Michael later spent time in Atlanta, Georgia serving in various capacities ministering to the homeless, crafting his music, and began his life with his beautiful wife, Sharon. From the saint to the seeker, from the youth to the seniors, this Virginia Beach based songwriter paints a picture for everyone under the sound of his voice. With his new project Bigger Than I Imagined, released in December 2010, Michael exalts praise for the majesty and greatness of God and takes us into a personal worship experience, beholding the glory of God. Bigger Than I Imagined speaks to relinquishing our total selves to God, allowing us to discover and realize the immensity of God’s omnipresence, and be selflessly thankful to Him for His love. While abroad, Michael experienced more than just frigid temperatures, tiramisu, and fresh pasta. Traveling along the European countryside, Michael was amazed at “how it seemed God cupped dirt in His hands and then zigzagged his finger through it to form the mountains.” Visiting the black clam shell infused shores of the Adriatic Sea, the lemon filled orchards of islands, riding along meandering icy roads, and seeing the olive groves alongside mountains, Michael had no choice but to express his gratitude to God for being The Creator in the title song, “Bigger Than I Imagined.” Discussing Bigger Than I Imagined, Michael shares, “This project includes some of what I consider my best writing to date. The songs demonstrate not only my growth as a songwriter, but express a personal journey of worship.” The album describes the price God paid for our redemption and the limitless love He has for His children. “Go God,” a song of excitement and praise, incorporates a captivating phrase that will become the new salutation of worshippers across the globe. “Bigger Than I Imagined” transcends us into worship, reminding us that no matter our diversity or geographical position, our God is great. Differences may separate us, languages may create barriers, but God is still “right there, answering prayer.” In addition to several original songs, Michael included some familiar worship tunes, as well as a cover of the popular Clara Wards favorite, “Packin’ Up,” to create the ultimate worship experience. Michael’s mission stands clear; to “Usher mankind into a worship experience that influences their way of life, daily demonstrate the truth of Christ to the world and influence other Christians and Christian Artists to do the same; and create music that will cause Christians to make their worship a lifestyle.”