As the year 1999 drew to a close, Christian music was receiving greater exposure than ever before, thanks to the crossover success of acts like Jars of Clay, P.O.D. and Amy Grant. As the new millennium dawned, though, the industry’s future became shaped more by issues facing all artists, regardless of genre: digital downloading, the death of the video age and September 11th. Christian music fans flocked to worship collections for comfort in the wake of the terrorist attacks, along with spiritual mainstream releases like U2’s All That You Can’t Leave Behind and the late Jeff Buckley’s cover of “Hallelujah.” As the decade continued, the lines between worship, gospel, CCM and Christian rock continued to blur. With lower budgets and fewer sales through traditional routes came more freedom for artists who took to the Web to promote themselves in new ways. From the tons of great music released since the clock struck midnight on December 31, 1999, and we bid goodnight to the last century, here are our decade-defining picks.
25. Passion Worship Band
Passion: Everything Glorious, 2006
You just can’t go wrong with a Passion release. When you gather masters of the worship genre like Chris Tomlin, David Crowder Band, Charlie Hall, Matt Redman and Christy Nockels together on the same stage, you get near-perfection. This is what we imagine the music in heaven might sound like. The Gospel Music Association obviously agreed, awarding this disc a Dove Award for Special Event Album of the Year in 2007. —Wendy Lee Nentwig
24. Third Day
Offerings: A Worship Album, 2000
A mix of live recordings and studio tracks, Offerings is a good album to help teach the subtle differences between Christian rock and worship music. Where the former is more about entertainment and/or self-reflection, the latter is all about full immersion—leader and follower coming together to praise the Lord. Just about every tune here—especially the Michael W. Smith-penned “Agnus Dei/Worthy” and “King of Glory,” an ecstatic sing-along that features Atlanta’s Cobb County Mass Choir. —Justin Farrar
23. Natalie Grant
Awaken, 2005
One of Christian music’s hardest-working singers, this “Ms. Grant” (no relation to Amy) comes into her own with Awaken. Proving she’s ahead of her time, this release was inspired by the timely topics of human trafficking and sexual slavery — not the usual pop fare, even on the Christian side of the aisle. Further proving her musical dexterity, Grant penned half the tracks, which have an overall theme of finding your purpose in the world. Standouts include the catchy “Something Beautiful,” co-written with Matthew West. —W.L.N.
22. Fred Hammond
Purpose By Design, 2000
A deft mix of studio and live tracks, this slick gospel production boasts a wonderful R&B undercurrent and shows why Hammond is at the forefront of the gospel music scene. Not-to-be-missed tracks on this release include his live rendition of the Sam Cooke classic “Jesus Be a Fence Around Me.” This isn’t just an album, it’s church with a capital “C”. Can I get an “amen”? —W.L.N.
21. Bebo Norman
Myself When I Am Real, 2002
Although he’s been doing his thing superbly since 1999, this is the album where the larger world finally fell properly in love with Bebo Norman and his refreshing mix of earthy alt-folk, slight pop and that something extra that earns him the “good for road trips” rating. “Great Light of the World” is the standout hit on this disc, but the LP as a whole is a true journey. Experience it, then discover his other albums. —Amy Bartlett
20. Trin-i-tee 5:7
T57, 2007
After more than a decade in the gospel industry, this trio ups the ante by partnering with producer Walter Milsap (Yolanda Adams, Alicia Keys) and the Music World Entertainment production team (including Mathew Knowles, the Bama Boyz, and DJ Static). Groundbreaking isn’t an overstatement when it comes to the silky-smooth harmonies of Adrian, Angel and Chanelle on this career-defining disc. —W.L.N.
19. Michael W. Smith
Worship, 2001
By sheer coincidence, one of the most persistently popular live worship albums was released on September 11, 2001. Smith’s welcoming and sincere voice, style and spirit set a charged, inner-circle tone of praise and seeking. It’s bathed in rich instrumentation—emphasized by a single haunting violin—that sends the most rousing praise songs to the center of the soul. —A.B.
18. Chris Tomlin
Hello Love, 2008
Chris Tomlin didn’t write this album with charts in mind. He wrote it for people looking for music to express their love for God. In that he has succeeded, delivering a set of all new love-inspired and love-inspiring praise and worship. “Jesus Messiah” is the single and “Sing, Sing, Sing” is memorable, but his intimate, reflective, soul-baring ballads are where this set takes flight. The hymn-styled duet “Praise the Father, Praise the Son,” “I Will Rise,” “Exalted (Yahweh)” and “All the Way My Savior Leads Me” line up for equal kudos; a feeling of 1980s optimism and innocent vocals make “God of This City” a unique pearl. —A.B.
17. Casting Crowns
Casting Crowns, 2003
Casting Crowns’ self-titled debut took the Christian rock underground by storm in 2003 with a glut of melodic, guitar-based rockers. Opening with “What If His People Prayed,” the album features tunes that share similar ground with adult contemporary Christian rockers like Caedmon’s Call and Steven Curtis Chapman, though elements of ’90s grunge influence songs like “American Dream” and “Glory.” Though the album was noteworthy at the time of its release, no one could have predicted the huge impact this group would have in such a short time. —Nate Cavalieri
16. Amy Grant
Legacy … Hymns & Faith, 2005
After more than two decades as the First Lady of Christian music, Amy Grant seemed ready to reinvent herself a little. Turning to her new husband, Vince Gill, and returning to the songs of her childhood, Grant veers away from her usual songwriter-driven pop to deliver a worship disc with a little country twang, some old-time gospel and her unmistakable vocals. In an industry overrun with fresh faces, someone with history and a little experience under her belt brings some much-needed depth to the genre overall and the music on this disc in particular. —W.L.N.
15. Matt Redman
Blessed Be Your Name, 2005
Fans might wonder if it’s already time for a Redman best-of. But this collection repeatedly spurs the question “he wrote that one, too?” It covers eight years of hits, and even familiar songs have a new air in the native tongue of their author. A snapshot of one of the most influential praise & worship artists of the decade. —A.B.
For a pixie-sized darling fronting a Christian rock band, vocalist Lacey Mosley certainly smashes stereotypes as she unleashes a bellowing yet astoundingly sweet-voiced wrath upon the world. Backed by a storm of hefty grunge guitars, it’s enough to beckon the beasts below and aboveground into a complete conversion. —M. Flannery
For 15 tracks, this is pristine Relient K: cheeky rock with a message. Jangling guitar chunks and clever lyrics flirt with metal and wistful sounds, balancing headbanging with a best-friends-forever sweetness. “I So Hate Consequences” ends with a talk with God, and “Let It All Out” is dreamy. Sunny, smart and totally addictive. —A.B.
12. Jars of Clay
Redemption Songs, 2005
J.O.C.’s artistry radiates on this experimental journey of folk, jazz, bluegrass and sacred roots music. Contains serious radio potential (“God Will Lift Up Your Head”) and guests galore, including the unbeatable Blind Boys of Alabama on “Nothing but the Blood.” A beguiling jazz-banjo lick lingers on the last track. While not as showy as their rock releases, this shape-shifting album shows the band’s range and highlights their transcendent talent. —A.B.
11. Kirk Franklin
Hero, 2005
Franklin’s first release in three years is a musically eclectic offering full of a cappella ballads, full-choir praise and the lively R&B that’s become Franklin’s trademark. He opens with African AIDS orphans singing “America the Beautiful” as a call for Americans to appreciate what they have, and closes with a poetry slam about defying statistics and stereotypes. —A.B.
10. Andrew Peterson
Behold the Lamb of God, 2004
The list of Christian artists who have released a Christmas disc is long, but those who’ve written their own complete Christmas program can be counted on one hand (maybe even one finger). Subtitled “The True Tall Tale of the Coming of Christ,” Peterson’s quirky-but-reverent take on the birth of Jesus has drawn a huge following, and the live show has become an annual tradition in Nashville and beyond. Bonus: the track “Matthew’s Begats” is a great way to memorize the complete genealogy of Jesus. —W.L.N.
9. Mat Kearney
Nothing Left to Lose, 2006
Kearney’s reflective lyrics, mid-tempo acoustic-based instrumentation and relaxed vocals lead one to think of Coldplay. Although he surely hit the CD repeat button on Parachutes, Kearney mixes his Chris Martin worship with a hint of Midwestern twang and theatrical imagery to create something that’s all his own. —Jon Maples
8. Toby Mac
Welcome to Diverse City, 2004
"Hey Now” intros Toby’s music and message: “One love, one God/ It’s been a long time comin’ but I’m servin’ up the sequel.” “Catchafire” dives into funk before the LP twists through all of his studio tricks. Hip-hop infusion, George Michael bits, relentless rhythms (“Ill-M-I”) and Mac’s minor notes (“Stories (Down to the Bottom),” “Burn for You”) throw it down that, overall, this former DC Talk member is a true genius. —A.B.
7. Jeremy Camp
Stay, 2002
Want to feel like a screaming teenager? Camp’s music is so right, from the first track to the last. Features strong lyrics that stick in your head and a rock-a-bye jam tempo that soothes the soul. He also dishes up deep drums, a sandy voice with an occasional charming yodel, and a personality so distinctive it’s easy to become a fan. “Take My Life” drives it home. —A.B.
6. Leeland
Opposite Way, 2008
Leeland best their debut (a lofty goal) with this sophomore success full of rhythm, message and melody. The title track’s only issue is that it ends abruptly, just as they hit an intensity that would make Coldplay shiver. “Brighter Days” has yesteryear Dylan magic, “Thief in the Night” features a brief Queen edge, and “Enter This Temple” is the guaranteed new worship fave. With an anthemic feel even on subtle tunes, the album delivers its multiple hits with the spiritual inspiration of Casting Crowns, the exacting rock savvy of Mute Math and a melodic sensibility unique to Leeland alone. —A.B.
5. Derek Webb
She Must and Shall Go Free, 2003
Some people may think this album is notable for the controversial track “Wedding Dress” or the use of some colorful language (by Christian radio standards, anyway), but Derek Webb’s solo debut stands out for much more interesting reasons. It’s thoughtful, political and more honest than any artist since Keith Green (if that reference is lost on you, that’ll tell you how long it’s been). While he first made his mark in the band Caedmon’s Call, Webb truly shines when he takes center stage. Oh, and “Wedding Dress” is amazing, with or without the controversy. —W.L.N.
4. Steven Curtis Chapman
Beauty Will Rise, 2009
What’s a singer-songwriter to do when he experiences personal tragedy? Pick up a guitar. Chapman channels the pain of losing his youngest daughter into an album that will resonate with anyone who has ever grieved. The title track is an inspiring anthem, but it’s the more personal tunes like “Heaven Is the Face” and “Just Have to Wait” that will take your breath away. Even the instrumentation—heavy on cello and acoustic guitar—has a mournful, longing quality. Along the way, Chapman wrestles with God, emerging with a hard-won hope in the creator who continues to carry him through. —W.L.N.
3. Nichole Nordeman
Woven and Spun, 2002
She’s the antidote to peppy Christian pop. There are no easy answers here, just honest wrestling with a God who refuses to be boxed in by our limited expectations and understanding. Nichole Nordeman’s piano-driven singer-songwriter fare is ocean-deep, with all of her early promise coming to fruition here on Woven & Spun. This disc is worth the sticker price just for the single “I Am,” a once-in-a-career kind of tune. —W.L.N.
2. MercyMe
Almost There, 2001
MercyMe gave Christian crossover pop a shot in the arm: they charted higher and longer with this LP than Christian tunes had in decades. The reason? The Dove Awards’ 2000 Song of the Year, “I Can Only Imagine.” Its sparse, emotional piano introduces a well-crafted cascade of hope and inspiration, with rock-solid vocals by Bart Millard, who penned the hit after his father’s untimely death. —A.B.
1. Switchfoot
The Beautiful Letdown, 2003
From the opening lines of “Meant to Live,” it’s clear that something is different. For their fourth studio disc, Switchfoot veer away from their more intimate rock roots and try on the role of big rockers posing bigger questions. It looks surprisingly good on the laid-back San Diego boys and ups the ante for everyone else making Christian rock. Tunes like the epic “Dare You to Move” boast broad appeal, drawing in a secular alt-rock audience while not alienating current fans. This stadium-ready, thought-provoking collection is a perfect example of what Christian music ought to be. —W.L.N.
Portions of album content provided by All Music Guide © 2011 All Media Guide, LLC ® 1999-2011 Rhapsody International Inc.
This list is absolutely brutal. If it's based on sales, I understand. If it's based on shapers and innovators or just plain solid music in the Christian music genre, you'll be highly disappointed when you give them a listen.
There are some good albums listed here. I would like to see "best of" sub-genres within the Christian music industry, so that I might discover less well known music that I'd like. It seems like this list is trying to offer something for everyone.
A great all 'round list with many of my favorites but...
RED - End of Silence should be listed here, at or near the top. There was not another album like it in all 10 years. There was not other recording during this decade that communicated that level of emotional intensity.
Seriously man...you need to make some sub genres here. Christian Music has gotten to big to lump into one category. Plus you didn't even mention bands harder bands like underoath, Skillet, and Anberlin who have made some waves
Where's Hawk Nelson? Incomplete without them.
this a horrendous, safe, totally boring list... why is it mostly Adult Contemporary?
Seriously?? This list without a single mention of Glenn Kaiser or the GKB? Or Sandra McCracken, or Caedmon's Call, or MxPx, or The NewsBoys?? Get a grip!!
There is hardly any Black Gospel artist mentioned, like Darryl Coley, Marvin Sapp, Yolanda Adams, Vicky Winans, Out of Eden, Hezekiah Walker, and Donnie McClurkin just to name a few. Black gospel music is totally separate from Christian music styles.
I would like to see more black gospel music on Real and Gospel should have there own catagory.
Hey! I can't believe The Newsboys weren't listed!! What's with that?!
How is Mark Schultz not listed here????
I agree that this list is heavily skewed to commercially safe albums that fail to innovate. Jesusfreakhideout did a similar article where you'll find more of the vanguard artists you would expect to see on a list like this:
mwY
Project 86
David Crowder
etc
The only two I really think you got right are tobyMac's "Welcome To Diverse City" and Jeremy Camp's "Stay". But why isn't NewsBoys on here?!?! And "The Beautiful Letdown" is not the best Christian Album of the decade. But what do you Rhapsodians care? You're too busy worshipping the likes of Miley Cyrus, Taylor Swift, and Lady Gaga.
Love the list. Some very talented artist and plenty of opportunity to discover new ones.
You did a great work putting this list together, and I guess it's only based on your American experience, because right here in Nigeria, where I live, the Christian music artists that have shaped our decade are Don Moen, Ron Kenoly, Cece Winan, Bob Fitts, Darlene Zeschech, Paul Wilbur, Donnie McClurkin, Kirk Franklin, Michael W. Smith, Nicole C. Mullen and Alvin Slaughter. Thanks
I totally a gree that Switchfoot's album should be number one. But like many of the previous comments, there is not mention of alternative christian music. No Skillet, Red, Thousand Foot Krutch, MxPx, Fireflight?!?
"I Can Only Imagine" that our praising in Heaven will be utterly devoid of modern worship drivel concocted by pretty boys (oops - I mean "bona fide 'worship leaders'") with mussed-up hair, introspective album poses, insipid, grade-school rhymes and vanilla extract-style musicianship. How about a real artist such as, say, Ashley Cleveland? Sara Groves? A classic such as Margaret Becker, maybe? Johnny Cash, even. You need to dig a little deeper to find the real talent.
:O brian littrell's welcome home album isn't on here!!! that's my favorite christian singer and that album was no less than AMAZING!
Israel Houghton is a glaring omission! His Christian music has broken down barriers and given listeners a simplistic knowledge of how true identity can be achieved through a personal relationship with Christ with such songs as "Friend of God".
Based on the comments, I don't think these people have the same musical taste as the writer of the album, Wendy. I think it is unusual that Wendy doesn't enjoy much from the second half of the decade.
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