Christian Music used to be something that you only found in church and it came straight from the hymnals. However, in the late '60s/early '70s, the "Jesus Movement" brought the music out into the world and Christian music began to become an industry within itself. Pioneers like Marsha Stevens, Chuck Girard and Larry Norman took the music that spoke of Jesus and merged it with the times.
We've come a long way since. Now Christian music is found in so many different styles it is the only genre of music that is defined by its lyrical content.
Praise and Worship
EMI
Praise and Worship is music that is commonly found in contemporary churches of today. Short and easy to sing (and remember) choruses that repeat several times make the style perfect for corporate worship because even people who aren't familiar with a particular song can sing along with ease after hearing one or two repeats of the chorus.
Essential Praise and Worship Artists
Southern Gospel
Courtesy of: William Morris Agency
Southern gospel music today ranges from the traditional four-part harmony quartets to a blend of country and bluegrass.
Essential Southern Gospel Artists
- The Martins
- Gaither Vocal Band
- The Crabb Family
Urban Gospel
GospoCentric
Urban Gospel hit the big time via quartets. Most of the early groups were composed of all males, but there were a few female groups. Huge choirs eventually replaced the quartets in popularity and were soon joined by smaller groups, led by strong directors like Kirk Franklin. As younger fans discovered the joys of Urban Gospel, the genre added another facet in the form of the modern R&B sound.
Essential Urban Gospel Artists
- Fred Hammond
- Tramaine Hawkins
- Shirley Caesar
- Yolanda Adams
- Kirk Franklin
Dove Awards Urban History
Dove Awards Traditional Gospel History
Dove Awards Contemporary Gospel History
