Rebecca Jean Smallbone, born on July 26, 1977, in Sydney, Australia, was raised in a loving Christian family that cherished music and faith. Her father, David Smallbone, a concert promoter, introduced her to the world of Christian music from a very young age. In her own words, Rebecca recalled, "I grew up very much around the Christian music scene because my dad was a Christian music promoter. So, I went to my first concert when I was six weeks old in the Sydney Opera House." At the tender age of eight, during a Girls Brigade meeting at her church, Rebecca made the profound decision to give her life to Jesus.
Financial Hardship Strikes Family
In 1991, the Smallbone family moved to Nashville, Tennessee, seeking new opportunities. But soon after, financial hardship struck as David lost his job. The family faced dire straits, living without furniture, and at times, not knowing where their next meal would come from. Yet, they relied deeply on their faith. Rebecca remembered times when they would sit on the floor, praying for essentials like money, food, a car, and furniture. This period of reliance on God's provision became a foundational testimony of His faithfulness in Rebecca's life.
God Provided Through Community
Community support arrived through neighbors who provided food and a local Baptist church that offered furniture. Through these experiences, Rebecca learned to rest in God's love like never before. Her resolve to share this testimony only grew stronger as she saw God answer their prayers repeatedly.
Musical Career Begins
Her musical journey took a significant turn in 1993 when she signed with ForeFront Records after performing at the First Baptist Church of Franklin. The label suggested she use the stage name Rebecca St. James, honoring her grandfather, James, who she described as "a wonderful, amazing man of God." In 1994, Rebecca released her debut album, marking the beginning of a successful career in contemporary Christian music.
Faith Through Music Ministry
Rebecca's unwavering faith and commitment to purity, values instilled by her parents, were central themes in her music. She expressed these convictions in songs like "Wait For Me," which she described as "a song about my future husband way before I met him. And it's a song about purity." Through her music, Rebecca inspired many to embrace a radical and bold faith, giving all the glory to Jesus for every success and transformation in her life.
