Christian rock bands are defined as groups that consist of members of the Christian faith who usually model their music around their beliefs. The lyrics usually discussion Christian matters, however the depth of religion found in a Christian rock band’s musical offerings will vary from one to the next. Some bands focus all of their music on Christian concerns while others may expand their focus to include other issues or themes. This type of music comes from both independent acts as well as those with links to the Christian music industry.
Initially the rock and roll genre was not welcomed by Christian fundamentalists in the 1950s. The wild, jarring sound of rock and roll caused some religious individuals to view rock music as a threat. Many tried to shield their children from its impact. The genre also had a highly sexual element that further distanced it from devout Christians of the time. Although there were exceptions to the rule, with some Christians enjoying this newly formed musical genre, for the most part it was viewed as an evil that should be avoided. This was further solidified with the gyrating performances of Elvis Presley. Despite being largely feared and shunned by Christian fundamentalists, Presley released a gospel music album titled He Touched Me in 192. The album sold more than one million copies in the United States and also earned the musician three Grammies. It would be the King’s third gospel album.
During the 1960s, the rock and roll genre became even more diversified and began to grow in its own artistic way. This brought about the birth of a rock counter culture which further pushed Christians away from the genre. By 1966, one of the first Christian rock bands, the Crusaders, appeared on the scene. Based in southern California, the band released Make a Joyful Noise with Drums and Guitars in November of 1966. This album is often credited as the “first gospel rock release.” Mind Garage was another band that combined psychedelic rock with Christian undertones. Mind Garage would also be credited as one of the founders of the modern Christian rock band.
During the 1970s and 1980s, newly emerging Christian rock bands were considered an element in the growing contemporary gospel and Christian music industry. The genre was already expanding with different artists, such as Phil Keaggy who offered a rock fusion sound and Bruce Cockburn who focused on folk rock. For the most part, Christian rock bands in the United States saw more success than those in the United Kingdom. During the 1990s, the genre was heavily influenced by the style of grunge music and the hugely successful Irish rock band, U2.
As the 1990s ended, Christian rock bands entered into the mainstream. Bands like Skillet, Decyfer Down, Thousand Foot Krutch, Relient K and Kutless gained exposure and grew their fan base. For the most part, Christian rock bands originated with the Protestant faith, however there are bands like Critical Mass that were born out of Roman Catholic origins.
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