Like the twists and turns of a mountain road, Laura Story’s life has held its share of unexpected moments - some exhilarating, some terrifying, and some simply beautiful to behold. Leaning solely on her faith in the sovereignty of God, Story has learned that no matter what comes around the next bend, it’s going to be an incredible view.
Set to release her label debut on INO Records (Sara Groves, MercyMe, Derek Webb) in 2008, Story is still learning that God’s plan is far deeper and wider than she ever thought possible.
Once an aspiring symphony conductor, Story didn’t even know she could sing - much less write songs - until she was in her early twenties. Today, Story is not only a gifted vocalist and worship leader but also the composer of one of the most beloved worship songs of our generation: “Indescribable.” The song has topped charts and been recorded by multiple artists, but most importantly, it has helped people all over the world experience our magnificent God.
So how did a string bassist and YoungLife leader from South Carolina end up penning a worship anthem known and loved by millions? It all began with a providential moment in the class registration line her sophomore year at Columbia International University. There she met Shane Williams of the popular indie pop-rock band Silers Bald, who asked her to join his band.
Five years and many road miles later, Story found herself being led a different direction musically, just as Silers Bald was on the brink of signing a deal with Essential Records. When her manager suggested she record an independent album with the songs she had written while in Silers, Story was still unconvinced her vocals could stand on their own. Besides, she was out of money and didn’t have enough songs for a full record.
But those challenges were overcome when God provided more money and more songs. In 2002, Story began recording her first independent album, trusting that last song she needed would come. Soon after, she was driving down a mountain road, eyes fixed on the majesty of her Creator, when she started worshiping and singing, “Indescribable, uncontainable, You placed the stars in the sky and You know them by name….” Story added verses on the piano and finished the song while reading God’s own description of His power and might in Job chapter 38. Her first record was now complete. “Indescribable” was the perfect title track.
What brought “Indescribable” into churches all across the U.S. and the world was when Chris Tomlin recorded it for his 2004 release, Arriving, produced by Ed Cash (Caedmon’s Call, Bebo Norman, Bethany Dillon). “Laura has a genuine understanding of a well crafted lyric,” says Chris Tomlin. “She carries herself with true humility as well. Laura is a wonderful songwriter and artist, and through the song ‘Indescribable,’ I am honored to be a small extension of her ministry.” Immediately, the song flew up the AC Charts, where it stayed #1 for 7 weeks and in the top 15 for 50 weeks. The song was also included on the Passion CD/DVD in 2005, Tomlin’s 2006 release, Live From Austin Music Hall, and performed by Avalon for WoW Worship 2006. The list of accolades goes on, but Story takes no more credit for writing it than she would for creating the Appalachian Mountains. “I always think the last song I wrote was my last song. Just when my mind is completely blank and I don’t know if I’ll write a song again, God surprises me. The songs are His. I’m just the first person who gets to hear them.”
“I’ll never forget meeting Laura Story,” says producer Ed Cash. “I was behind the dining hall at a YoungLife camp in North Carolina, and she played me the song “Grace.” I still remembered the words and melody to that song after years of not seeing her. Laura has an awesome anointing on her life for writing songs that call me closer to Jesus. She is a true worshipper of God and a joy to be around.”
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I met Laura today at the Songwriter Bootcamp at Overlake Christian Church in Redmond, WA. It was an amazing day and Laura was the highlight!
Jun 09, 07:05 AM
I love your CD. WE always listen to CD's while making long drives in the car while on vacation. Your CD got played the most. It's beautiful and uplifting! You have a God given talent for writing lyrics and your voice is so inspirational. God is using you to bless so many lives. Blessings to you!
Nov 04 2008, 10:24 PM
Thank you Laura for sharing your love of God and for making your music available in streaming from laurastorymusic.com. While on travel it helped me through some healing as i kept it playing through the night. God loves you and your husband dearly! Thank you for sharing His love with us. I have purchased your CD online and cannot wait to receive it. The streaming from your site really helped me. Thank you so much.
Sep 12 2008, 07:50 PM
WOW, God has truely touched you! The songs you have written are beautiful. We will pray for your husband!
Sep 05 2008, 01:22 PM
i love the song mighty to save, it makes you think.... God is Awesome, He can do anything.... He never leaves. It always makes me want to cry thinking about all the things He does for us every day.
Aug 02 2008, 12:00 PM
i love listening to the song mighty to save it is such an encouragement!!!!!