Now that I’m getting back to my faith, I’d occasionally like to listen to some Christian music that isn’t, well, God awful. Something more uplifting than classic rock on Sundays. And I know we have posters on the board that are fans, so I’m hoping someone can hook me up. (Even with past searches too. I can’t ever get stupid Tapatalk to pull anything up.)
My first go round in the 80s, had me listening to whatever came down the pike. I was into Amy Grant, Whiteheart, Petra, etc., although Stryper was too hard for me. Yeah, I’ll take a minute to let that sink in. Anyway, these days I think I’m interested in some alternative type stuff, and if our song leader’s choices are representative, folk maybe or the spiritual version of Lilith Fair. I like thoughtfulness, guitars, and for it to be mostly on the upbeat side (however, I wouldn’t turn it down if it’s really just awesome in general), to name a few things. No matter what though, I’m not interested in it being preachy, fundamentalist or anything hardcore doom and gloom hellfire. I had enough of that growing up. Blargh.
So, If’n ya know something you wanna share, lay it on me. You’re suggestions will be much appreciated. Thanks much.
Phil Keaggy is a renowned finger style guitar player who does Christian music. Micheal Card does stuff I would characterize as folky. If you have not heard the DC talk cover version of “I wish we’d all been ready” I recommend that. Sixpence none the richer might fit the style you are looking for. I don’t have many recent recommendations but you might want to try those.
If you’re at all interested in 60’s style folk, try to find the old albums of the Montfort Mission. They were a group of seminarians from St. Louis who actually got signed to a major record label. Just imagine “folk Mass” and you’re there.
I haven’t followed Bruce Cockburn for many years now, but I’m fairly confident that most of his albums up thru Dancing in the Dragon’s Jaws had a Christian mysticism vibe to them.
I went searching for a Bruce Cockburn video & found him & Phil Keaggy performing together!
Excellent suggestions! I remember Phil Keaggy from back in the day, but then, he wasn’t pop enough. < smack > I’ll definitely check out Card and Cockburn, and I really like the story behind Montfort Mission. I even think I’ve got some Sixpence, too. Anyway, off to check out iTunes. You guys are the best.
ETA: It was here that someone introduced me to Pedro the Lion. I really thank whoever that was.
Jars of Clay? They had a hit with a song called "Flood’ back in 1995, but they’re still sufficiently popular that it apparently caused a bit of a tizzy in the Christian fundamentalist community when the lead singer sent out some tweets apparently supporting gay marriage.
I’ll add a vote for Jars of Clay, and add Cathy Burton.
Also Brooke Fraser’s first couple of albums have a christian ethic with a pop/folk sound. I haven’t heard her new album, but it apparently has a more electronica feel. Brooke is a kiwi who got her start recording with Hillsongs in Australia.
For a rockier feel, Casting Crowns and maybe Dustin Kensrue. Look for his acoustic covers on youtube.
Oh and if you want light pop folk with classy vocal harmonies, try Daughters of Davis - sisters from Winchester who went busking for two years round the UK in a panel van. They now tour in Otis, a campervan supplied by the UK Caravan Club (I’m guessing they used a lot of club sites while touring).
You might try these (who are not exactly folk, but just fun music):
Jimmy Needham
Francesca Battistelli
David Crowder (both as DC Band and whatever he is now)
Folk Angel
Shane and Shane
Third Day, who are great Southern Rockers
I am currently enjoying John Waller (earthier sound) and Citizen Way (quite “pop” but wonderfully orthodox lyrics…). You might check out Big Daddy Weave as well.
These are awesome. I’m posting in a hurry right now, but I promise to be back later and let everyone know what all I’ve found from your suggestions. Keep them coming and thanks!
Not explicitly Christian, but definitely folk-y and faith-influenced: Over the Rhine
Alison Krauss, too, has a very folksy sound, and lots of songs that are positive–know nothing of her faith system, however. Alison Krauss - Simple Love - YouTube
Another possible suggestion: Mark Heard, a singer-songwriter who died in 1992 at the tragically young age of 40. Or see the tribute album “Strong Hand of Love” or some of the artists who appear on that album (which include Phil Keaggy and Bruce Cockburn, mentioned upthread), or the documentary video here on YouTube. (Although, his songs may not all be as “uplifting” or “upbeat” as you’re looking for. His songwriting frequently reflects the vulnerability, sadness, and struggle in the human condition.)
Something more uplifting than classic rock on Sundays. And I know we have posters on the board that are fans, so I’m hoping someone can hook me up. (Even with past searches too. I can’t ever get stupid Tapatalk to pull anything up.)