"I Noah Guy“
Review from “HypeHub Magazine"
Just as shelter isn't enough to weather life's storms, sometimes what's left to gather to your side is a song. Meet "I Noah Guy" by MrR, a funkin' genre-blending jam delivered back to the frontline spirit. It's a Contemporary Christian song, but it isn't the type you'd expect. Instead, it's something flashier, more colorful, and more fantastic.
Review from “Korliblog.com"
MrR’s latest single, “I Noah Guy,” is a nice fusion of spiritual soul and gritty funk wrapped in an earnest cry for divine help. Rooted in his self-described genre of Righteous Funk, this track shows the San Francisco-born keyboardist and composer’s wide musical fluency, melding gospel emotion, jazz phrasing, and contemporary Christian messaging into something deeply personal and sonically compelling.
"Hope Has a Name “
Review from “Devine Jamz Gospel Network"
Music has a way of lifting our spirits, speaking to our souls, and reminding us that even in difficult times, there is always a light at the end of the tunnel. That’s exactly the message behind Hope Has a Name, the latest single from Russell Smith, aka MrR. Released on March 14, 2025, this electrifying track features powerhouse vocalist Mike Walker and the dynamic guitar skills of Larry Holiday. With an energetic fusion of Contemporary Christian Music and funk, MrR delivers what he calls “Righteous Funk”, a sound that’s both uplifting and infectious.
This new single is more than just a song—it’s a declaration of faith and a reminder that hope is not just a wish but a promise. Recorded at MrR Studio in Tucson, AZ, and Roller Music Pro Studio in Branson, MO, the track was crafted with passion and precision. Walker’s vocals soar, Holiday’s guitar work shines, and MrR’s signature keyboard arrangements tie it all together to create a moving musical experience that reaches the heart.
The Meaning Behind Hope Has a Name
There’s something undeniably special about a song that brings people together in faith. Hope Has a Name isn’t just about good music; it’s about the power of belief. The song emphasizes that hope isn’t just an abstract idea—it’s real, tangible, and it has a name: Jesus. The lyrics, layered over an upbeat groove, offer encouragement to anyone who may be struggling, reminding them that faith is a guiding force that never fades.
With his signature mix of funk, gospel, and CCM, MrR ensures that this track moves not just the feet but the soul. His goal? To create music that inspires, motivates, and connects people to God through rhythm and harmony. Whether you’re singing along in your car, blasting it through your speakers, or playing it during worship, this track is sure to leave an impact.
"That's All it Takes “
MrR is no stranger to making faith-filled, groove-heavy music. Before dropping Hope Has a Name, he released That’s All It Takes (feat. Mike Walker) on May 23, 2024. That single showcased his ability to blend heartfelt lyrics with uplifting instrumentals, making waves in the Christian music scene. If you enjoyed that track, Hope Has a Name takes things to the next level, offering an even deeper, soul-stirring experience.
Crowd Reviews from “Reverb Nation”:
"Why Wait “
This song is really great. It reminds me of Kirk Franklin and Hezekiah Walker with a touch of Michael Jackson. The instrumentals are really great, I really loved the bass guitar.” - 37 YO Female
"The song has a very good hoppy type feel to it. The vocals have a nice flow to them too. It almost has a Michael Jackson feel in parts too. Recording quality is good and the vocals are well done." - 40 YO Male
"Yeah, I mean, I'll give credit because I think this song is more creative than most in the genre which typically sound the same. I also like the instrumental." - 22 YO Male
“I liked the message. The music was nice. I liked the beat. The song got better over time. This is a hit in my book!” - 44 YO Female
"This is excellent pop music with a solid, infectious beat and lyrics that seem divinely inspired. I loved the melody and that awesome keyboard solo." - 51 YO Male
