TobyMac’s funk, pop and positivity “Hits Deep” on Fiserv Forum, plus Corey Asbury, Mac Powell, more

Photos by Andy Argyrakis

For a guy who’s been going since the late 1980s as one third of rappers turned rockers DC Talk, it’s remarkable that TobyMac has retained his relevance as a solo artist who keeps topping the charts of Christian radio and even all of the Billboard 200.

Those who caught the self-proclaimed “Jesus Freak” headlining the “Hits Deep” Tour at Milwaukee’s Fiserv Forum, his closest visit to Chicago, could’ve easily mistaken what they heard as the sunny pop meets funk and R&B of Justin Timberlake or Bruno Mars, while the scope of the production matched any of today’s arena outings.

Of course, what makes TobyMac different than many at this level is the message, which has always managed to carefully balance his beliefs with a crossover-friendly approach, right up to the latest long player “Life After Death.”

Given the fact it comes after an extremely devastating loss, the death of his 21-year-old son by an accidental drug overdose, also makes it all the more relatable, though rather than wallow in despair, the multiple Grammy and Dove Award-winner made sure to let everyone know “Help Is On The Way.”

The faith-fueled sentiments continued throughout super splashy and brassy arrangements of “Everything,” “I Just Need U” and “Love Broke Thru,” accompanied by the multi-cultural and mega-talented backing cast known as Diverse City.

TobyMac and company moved through the many emotions of “Faithfully,” “City On Our Knees” and “The Elements” and others, which no matter where one falls on either side of the aisle, sure did feel like a non-stop party of pure positivity.

No less than five support acts made it feel like a mini-festival or Winter Jam, such as former Third Day front man Mac Powell, who’s instantly recognizable vocals were in mint condition throughout the group’s southern rocker “Soul On Fire” and the praise-filled “God Of Wonders,” alongside like-minded samples of the current “New Creation.”

Formerly from Bethel Music, Corey Asbury has rapidly made his own mark within church circles, as demonstrated by a handful of heartfelt acoustic selections culminating in the frequently covered “Reckless Love.”

Faithful were also introduced to relatively new singer/songwriters Tasha Layton, Terrian (a member of Diverse City) and Jon Reddick, who turned in short but engaging introductions to ensure the “Heavenbound” marathon never wavered in momentum.

For additional information on TobyMac, visit TobyMac.com.

For a list of upcoming Awakening Events concerts, visit AwakeningEvents.com.

Upcoming concert highlights at the Fiserv Forum include Sam Hunt (Mar. 15); Olivia Rodrigo (Mar. 16); Zach Bryan (Mar. 20); Fall Out Boy (Apr. 2); Dan + Shay (Apr. 4); Andrea Bocelli (Apr. 6); Nicki Minaj (Apr. 13); Tim McGraw (Apr. 19); Hogfest (May 3); NF (May 8); Greta Van Fleet (May 21); Peso Pluma (May 30); Barry Manilow (Aug. 3); Blink-182 (Aug. 7); Heart (Aug. 15); Keith Sweat (Sept. 12) and Pink (Oct. 23). For additional details, visit FiservForum.com.

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TobyMac’s funk, pop and positivity “Hits Deep” on Fiserv Forum, plus Corey Asbury, Mac Powell, more

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