TobyMac, Eye On It

With a laser-sharp focus on Christ and a fresh intention to search his heart when it comes to the motivation behind his work, TobyMac has his eye on the prize, evidenced by the 12 red-hot tracks on his new, much-anticipated studio release. Eye On It is filled with hook-laden cuts, one right after the other, that showcase the best of Mr. Mac. He has the ability to turn a common rhyme into a sure-fire hit. Look no further than first single “Me Without You,” where Mac combines a danceable beat with purposeful, relatable lyrics nearly impossible to get out of your head.

The other songs on the album are equally as fun and substantial. “Steal My Show” puts listeners on a plane with the award-winning artist jetting off to his next concert. While the beat’s fun, the lyrics reveal the inner-workings of his heart in a plea for God to be the center of his show: “If you want to steal my show/ I’ll sit back and watch You go/ If You’ve got something to say, go on and take it away.” Later on, “Thankful for You” also speaks to his artist-driven life. One of the most amusing songs on the album, it’s an ode of gratitude to fans and will no doubt be a concert favorite. By the lyrical tones of these cuts, it seems Toby’s in a reflective season of his career, and he’s checking his ego in favor of giving God the spotlight – a refreshing revelation when you consider the accolades and recognition he’s amassed over the course of his storied career.

He also pays tribute to his wife and five kids on the sweet ballad “Family” and the reggae-infused vibe of “Made for Me,” where he sings about the ways he and his Jamaican-born wife compliment one another.

And speaking of complimentary blends, always a proponent for diversity, Toby takes several of his friends along for the ride on Eye On It. Lecrae’s innovative rap can be heard on “Forgiveness,” while Group 1 Crew’s Blanca Callahan lends her powerful voice to the fiery “Unstoppable.” Fans will also be delighted to hear up-and-comer Jamie Grace on the charming “Favorite Song” which rounds out the track-listing. And, of course, Toby never forgets to include his oldest son, Truett, when it comes to collaborations. The father/son rap on “Mac Daddy” is a clever, witty play-on-words about Truett wanting a new computer.

With the exception of the title track which skews heavy on the rock and high on the volume, Eye On It finds Toby playing to his pop-rock sensibilities, with a little funk thrown in for good measure. Any of these songs could easily top the charts. He’s mastered the radio hit, but not without adding his own flair to each track. With Eye On It, TobyMac continues to raise the bar of artistry bringing a little more groove to Christian radio and making hip-hop feel at home on AC airwaves. His pure motives pour out in the lyrics. His deep commitment to diversity and collaboration shine through. And his trendsetting sense of style? Well, what can we say? Eye On It is as cool as anything Toby’s ever done.