When looking back at the making of "Imagination," which hit stores August 16, one of the things that stands out most this time for Bethany is how she was being challenged as a songwriter. “Ed definitely stretches me with that. I’ll bring him a song, and he’ll think a certain line is unclear — or he just doesn’t think it’s my best. And my ego is so bruised by that,” Bethany says. “We’ve gotten to the point in our friendship where I can say, ‘I don’t think so. I love that line. What are you talking about?’ He just laughs — it’s what I call the mule factor. He’s like ‘Get over it. Get over yourself.’ I’m trying to learn how to be more open. It’s the only way to grow.”

Based on the artistic growth evident on "Imagination," it's clear Bethany's commitment to being open is paying off. Simply put, this second album is a sophomore jump. From the soulful depth of Bethany's engaging lyrics to the addictive musicality of the songs to the very vocal performance Ed captured on tape, "Imagination" reveals Bethany Dillon — the young woman. 

On working with Bethany, Ed says, “She is just a remarkable girl. Her age comes up here and there. ... But I’m confident that if she were 35, we’d all still be in awe of the gift God has given her.  I attribute it to two things:  First — the favor of God. ... We saw it in King David at a young age, and we see it in Bethany. But she would agree that it would be a tragedy if we saw it all as her instead of Him. The other reason I think she is so advanced is because of the remarkable family in which she was raised. Bill and Tina are amazing parents and amazing people.  Her siblings are equally wonderful folks.  When you grow as the recipient of that kind of love — it comes out in whatever you do, which in Beth’s case is through her music and the way she loves people.”

And fellow artist Sara Groves can’t help but agree. “Bethany turns everyday observation into beautiful art, and sings about it with great sincerity. When I first heard her sing, I was so moved by her voice and genuine heart.  I look forward to hearing her life put to music.”

© 2005 CCM Magazine.  All rights reserved.  Used with permission.  Click here to subscribe.