Christian / Gospel Artists & Styles

By Kim Jones, About.com Guide to Christian Music / Gospel

Christian Music / Gospel 101 - learning more about Christian artists, bands and styles of music.

Christian Music / Gospel 101
Adult Contemporary
Gospel Rap
Inspirational
Metal / Hard Rock / Punk
Modern Rock

Music for Children and Youth
Pop/Contemporary
Praise & Worship
Urban Gospel
Behind the Music

Christian Music / Gospel 101

Before we dive into sub-genres, find out what makes Christian Music Christian.

Adult Contemporary

Sometimes called "Easy Listening," AC music generally appeals more to adults, ages 35 - 50.

Gospel Rap

Gospel rappers aka holy hip-hoppers ... they spit out rhymes like other rappers, but their words are deeper, more profound and definitely God-inspired.

Inspirational

Inspo blends pop, contemporary, AC, hymns and even praise and worship, without the corporate worship elements.

Metal / Hard Rock / Punk

Hard rock fans, be they Christian or not, tend to like more edge to their music.

Modern Rock

Using electric guitars, passionate vocals and drum kits beating out killer back-beats, Christian rock is a way to share the Message of Hope with people in churches who want more than traditional hymns and to those outside of the church that don't know Jesus.

Music for Children and Youth

VeggieTales - Larry-boy and the Rumor Weed

While Sunday school has a great deal to do with our little ones learning the songs, another genre within Christian music that is especially for kids helps a great deal.

Pop/Contemporary

Using secular music terms, Christian pop/contemporary could easily be described as "Top 40." Pop music meets soft rock and voila! Pop/contemporary!

Praise & Worship

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.