Christian rock band Big Daddy Weave has made a heartfelt return with their latest album, Let It Begin, released on May 23, 2025. This marks the band’s first full-length studio project since the tragic passing of beloved bassist Jay Weaver in 2022. The album, which masterfully blends pop/rock melodies with gospel influences, debuted at No. 20 on the US Top Christian Albums chart, signaling a strong and emotional comeback.
The project serves as a tribute to Jay Weaver and a milestone of resilience for the remaining members. Led by Mike Weaver, Jay’s brother and lead vocalist, Big Daddy Weave channels the emotional weight of loss into a collection that uplifts, encourages, and heals. The result is a deeply personal and spiritually resonant body of work that appeals to long-time fans and new listeners alike.
A Healing Journey in Music
Let It Begin contains 15 tracks that take listeners on a journey through grief, hope, and rebirth. Each song is crafted with lyrical sincerity and musical maturity, reflecting the band’s evolution over the past two years. Central to the album is the song “Jaybird,” an intimate homage to Jay Weaver that stands out for its raw emotion and vulnerability.
The overarching theme of the album is redemption through faith. The lyrics often speak of brokenness transformed into strength, sorrow into joy, and endings into new beginnings. This thematic arc resonates especially with fans familiar with the band’s recent hardships.
Mike Weaver described the process of creating Let It Begin as “a season of personal healing,” noting how songwriting served as a therapeutic outlet. In many ways, the album offers solace not just to the band, but to listeners navigating their own losses and challenges.
Charting a Comeback with Hit Singles
Before the album’s full release, Big Daddy Weave dropped a string of successful singles that helped build anticipation and reaffirmed their musical relevance.
- “God Is in This Story” featuring Katy Nichole, climbed to No. 1 on both the Billboard Hot Christian Songs and Christian Airplay charts.
- “Heaven Changes Everything” reached No. 2 on the same charts, praised for its poetic lyrics and powerful instrumentation.
- “Let It Begin,” the title track, secured a strong position at No. 15 on the Billboard Hot Christian Songs chart.
These tracks not only demonstrate the band’s continued ability to produce chart-topping music but also highlight their collaborative spirit. Featuring vocalists like Katy Nichole, Megan Woods, and Ben Fuller adds layers of sonic richness and expands the album’s appeal.
Critical Acclaim and Audience Reception
The album has garnered praise from critics and fans alike. Music reviewers have noted the authenticity and spiritual depth present throughout the tracklist. The production is crisp, the arrangements are dynamic, and the lyrics feel more introspective and refined than ever before.
Reviewers highlighted Let It Begin as a standout among recent Christian music releases. They pointed to its blend of musical excellence and heartfelt messaging as a formula that not only honors Jay Weaver’s legacy but also propels the band into a compelling new chapter.
Fans have taken to social media and streaming platforms to express how the songs have touched their lives, often referencing specific lyrics that resonated deeply. Many describe the album as a soundtrack for healing, particularly those who have faced personal loss or spiritual struggle.
A Tour to Remember
To accompany the album’s release, Big Daddy Weave launched the “Let It Begin” tour. This live experience includes performances of the new tracks alongside fan favorites from previous albums. Audiences have responded enthusiastically, turning out in large numbers to show support.
Joining the tour are featured artists Ben Fuller and Megan Woods, both of whom contributed vocals on the album. Their live performances add a fresh dynamic to the concerts and offer fans a chance to experience the collaborative spirit of the album in real time.
The band has also incorporated multimedia elements into the tour, including behind-the-scenes video montages and stories shared on stage, adding emotional depth to the live performances.
Behind the Music: Cabin Conversations
Adding further dimension to the album’s release is a companion video-podcast series titled “Cabin Conversations.” Hosted by Mike Weaver, the series dives into the inspiration and process behind each track. It offers fans a behind-the-scenes look at the band’s journey and the making of Let It Begin.
These episodes feature candid reflections, interviews with collaborators, and personal stories that give context to the album’s themes. The series has been well-received, with many viewers appreciating the transparency and emotional honesty it provides.
Looking Ahead
As Big Daddy Weave continues their tour and promotional efforts, Let It Begin stands as a powerful chapter in the band’s history. It marks not just a return to music, but a reawakening of purpose and spiritual clarity. The album underscores the idea that even in the face of deep loss, hope can take root and flourish.
Through its heartfelt lyrics, compelling melodies, and the authenticity of its creation, Let It Begin is poised to become a defining record in Big Daddy Weave’s discography. It is a tribute, a milestone, and above all, an invitation to begin again.