Contemporary Christian Music

Contemporary Christian Music (or CCM; also by its religious neutral term "inspirational music") is a genre of popular music which is lyrically focused on matters concerned with the Christian faith. The term is typically used to refer to the Nashville, Tennessee-based pop, rock, and worship Christian music industry, currently represented by artists such as Aaron Shust, Amy Grant, Avalon, Chris Tomlin, Jars of Clay, Jeremy Camp, MercyMe, Michael W. Smith, Petra, Rebecca St. James, Steven Curtis Chapman, Third Day, and a host of others. The industry is represented in Billboard Magazine's "Top Christian Albums" and "Hot Christian Songs" charts, and by Radio & Records magazine's Christian AC (Adult Contemporary), Christian CHR (Contemporary Hit Radio), Christian Rock, and Inspirational (INSPO) airplay charts, as well as the iTunes Store's "Christian & Gospel" genre.




The term "Contemporary Christian Music" originated in the late 1960s in reference to the emerging pop and rock "Jesus music", the musical product of the Jesus Movement of the time. The Mind Garage is considered the first Christian Rock band. Their persistent efforts to contemporize religious music broke down the barriers between church and rock and roll, and created an environment where a new genre of rock music could thrive. The creation of Christian rock music from which CCM originated is well documented from 1967 to 1970 in local media and national magazines, newspapers and TV shows including ABC's Directions and NBC TV's Huntley Brinkley News, The Village Voice, Billboard and Rolling Stone magazine. The rock and roll worship service called the Electric Liturgy was written in 1967 and performed in churches by the Mind Garage until 1970. The album was recorded in 1969 in RCA's "Nashville Sound" studio, which was under the management of Chet Atkins at the time, and released in early 1970.

Chronology, Volume 2 (2001-2006) CD/DVD

By Third Day / Essential


The second half of Third Day's Chronology delivers 18 audio tracks of the band's biggest hits along with new, live recordings from its biggest tour dates including the record setting "Wherever You Are" tour. In addition to award winning audio, the DVD portion offers high-energy video footage, bootleg performances, home-movie clips and an in-depth documentary chronicling the past 10 years of music, ministry and life on the road with one of rock's hardest working and most celebrated bands. The last five years of Third Day's history offers insight to the milestones and turning points of a band born in a garage in Atlanta that quickly became one of the most respected and well known names in the world.


Wherever You Are, Compact Disc [CD]

By Third Day / Provident Music Distribution


Third Day's Wherever You Are is a masterful blend of bluesy rock and worshipful ballads, all in their signature style. The group's sixth studio release includes the hit "Cry Out to Jesus", "Keep On Shinin'", "I Can Feel It", and more.


Wire, Compact Disc [CD]

By Provident Music Distribution


The new century has been very good to bandmates Mac Powell, Brad Avery, Mark Lee, Tai Anderson, and David Carr. Best known for their kinetic live shows filled with modern worship music and a signature southern style, the million-selling Grammy and Dove Award-winning band has been named the GMA Group and Artist of the Year, had their Offerings album go gold, and played to sold-out venues across the country.

Third Day consistently delivers fresh, contemporary worship music that Christians use in church, youth groups, concerts, and rallies. But when it's time to rock, they rock---and Wire says, "It's time!"


Live Wire, CD/DVD

By Third Day / Provident Music Distribution


Recorded live at Louisville, Kentucky's Palace Theater, Live Wire is a front row seat for Third Day's energizing live performance! This spectacular CD/DVD set includes hits like "Consuming Fire," "Sing a Song," "Offering" and "My Hope Is You," along with new favorites "'Til the Day I Die," "Come On Back to Me," "I Believe," "RockStar" and more. The DVD also includes a new documentary and behind the scenes footage of the band.


Third Day Live in Concert: The Offerings Experience, DVD

By Third Day / Provident Music Distribution


On March 31, 2001, Third Day took the stage at Hi-Fi Buys Amphitheatre in Atlanta, Georgia for an anointed evening of worship on their fastest selling tour ever. With more than 15,000 hometown fans in attendance, Third Day performed songs from their fan-requested, gold-selling record Offerings. It was a night filled with energy, passion and emotion.

Captured live, this concert experience provides an "all access pass" into the daily activities of the tour, including conversations with each band member, and many behind-the-scenes moments. The DVD also includes band commentary, director's commentary and other special features.

Songs include:

• Took My Place
• Sky Falls Down
• I've Always Loved You
• I Remember You
• You're Everywhere
• King Of Glory
• Thief
• Your Love Oh Lord
• Consuming Fire
• My Hope Is In You
• Agnus Dei

Active Videos

The Prodigal Comes Home CD

By Michael English / Curb Records


The Prodigal Comes Home marks Michael English's first studio work in eight years. He returns to the studio with a cache of songs penned by today's finest songwriters, matched by his powerful vocal performance. Includes "The Only Good Thing In Me," "Right Where You Are," and a cover of the John Hiatt classic, "Have a Little Faith in Me."


Greatest Hits: In Christ Alone CD

By Michael English / Word Entertainment, Inc.


Beloved performer and former Gaither Vocal Band member Michael English offers this inspirational collection of his most well known and favorite songs. Includes "Your Love Amazes Me," "In Christ Alone," "I Bowed On My Knees," and more.


Heaven To Earth CD

By Word Entertainment, Inc.


Michael's powerful message of hope, healing, and faith brings heaven right down to earth and into your heart. You'll be blessed and renewed by "Finally Free," "Always Be There," "If You Only Knew," "I Am Holding You," and more.


Hope CD

By Michael English / Word Entertainment, Inc.

Stand CD

By Michael W. Smith / Provident Music Distribution


On his 19th studio album, Michael W. Smith for the first time turned the production reins over to veteran studio wiz Matt Bronleewe, and much of the writing duties to budding superstar Leeland Mooring and long time friend Amy Grant. The result is a fresh batch of beautiful melodies and strong sentiments, calling listeners to stand up for what they believe. Smith's unmistakable voice and passion shine on "Be Lifted High," "Escape Your Love," "Cover Me," and more.


Healing Rain, Compact Disc [CD]

By Michael W. Smith / Provident Music Distribution


Praise & worship fans, rejoice! Smitty's eagerly anticipated new studio album is here! Blending his pop sensibilities with a worshipful heart, he communicates God's healing love for us in "Here I Am," "Live Forever," "Bridge over Troubled Water," the title track, and more.


First Decade, Compact Disc [CD]

By Michael W. Smith / Provident Music Distribution


The First Decade is a charming retrospective look at the early stages of Smitty's musical career, featuring songs from his first five studio releases. Fifteen songs, including "Kentucky Rose," "Go West Young Man," "Rockettown," and more.


The Live Set, Compact Disc [CD]

By Michael W. Smith / Provident Music Distribution


The fourth release from praise & worship superstar Michael W. Smith captures the energetic feel of his first three albums, presented in a captivating live concert. Includes "You're Alright," "Rocketown," "Pursuit of the Dream," and more.

Beyond Measure CD

By Jeremy Camp / Emi Cmg Distribution


Multiple award-winning singer/songwriter Jeremy Camp and his powerful voice bring an edgy, organic touch to "Everything," "Tonight," "What It Means," "Feels Like a Little Time," "Let It Fade," "Give Me Jesus," "No Matter What," "I Am Nothing," "When You Are Near," "Beyond Measure," the title track, and more!


Live Unplugged (CD/DVD)

By Jeremy Camp / Emi Cmg Distribution


Live... Unplugged features singer/songwriter Jeremy Camp performing full-band acoustic versions of songs from his first three releases. This intimate performance comes in cd/dvd format, so you can watch the live concert, or listen to the recording. Songs include "Stay," "Take You Back," "Lay Down My Pride," and more.


Stay, Compact Disc [CD]

By Jeremy Camp / Emi Cmg Distribution


Jeremy Camp's debut album, Stay, includes songs of faith and devotion through struggles and pain- his personal ministry to listeners and fans. His strong voice and incredible songwriting speaks to a new generation of Christians, young and old. Features "Right Here," "Walk By Faith," "Stay," "Breaking My Fall," and many more.


Carried Me: The Worship Project CD

By Jeremy Camp / Emi Cmg Distribution


Jeremy Camp's sophomore release blends his established sound with new and classic modern worship songs, to amazing effect! Includes "Trust in You," "Beautiful One," "Walk by Faith," and more!

Songs for the Storm, Volume 1 CD

By Kirk Franklin / Provident Music Distribution


Songs for the Storm, Volume 1 is a collection of smash hits and all time favorites from contemporary Gospel great Kirk Franklin, with track support from The Family, the NuNation crew, and others. Includes "Conquerors," "When You Fall," "He Will Take the Pain Away," and more.


Hero, Compact Disc [CD]

By Kirk Franklin / Provident Music Distribution


Kirk Franklin weaves powerful and profound lyrics with cutting-edge musical styles in this bold and courageous display of an artistic genius at his best! This dual Grammy winning album features guest appearances from J. Moss, Dorinda Clark-Cole, Yolanda Adams, Stevie Wonder, and others. Includes 2007 Grammy winner for Best Gospel Song "Imagine Me" as well as "Let It Go," "Why," "Keep Your Head," and more.


The Rebirth Of Kirk Franklin, Compact Disc [CD]

By Kirk Franklin / Provident Music Distribution


Filled with spine-tingling praise & worship, here's the much-anticipated follow-up to The Nu Nation Project. Featuring guests Shirley Caesar, Crystal Lewis, Alvin Slaughter, and others, this live performance includes "Brighter Day," "Always," "When I Get There," the smash hit "911," and dc Talk's tobyMac on "Throw Yo Hands Up."

Welcome to Diverse City, Compact Disc [CD]

By tobyMac / Emi Cmg Distribution


Welcome To Diverse City is an album bursting with musical flavors and nuances, and yet this stylistic blend finds unity through faith as it's threaded through an urban rock and hip-hop frame. Reaching into a world of different sounds and cultures, this album knits it all together with a genuine artist's touch. Includes "Hey Now", "Slam", "Gone", "Diverse City", and more.


Portable Sounds CD

By tobyMac / Emi Cmg Distribution


On the heels of his highly successful Diverse City, tobyMac returns with his third studio album, thirteen fresh songs featuring his trademark pop, rock, rap style. Infused with a healthy dose of fun party vibes, Portable Sounds includes the smash hit single "Made to Love" as well as "Ignition," "Feelin' So Fly," and "Hype Man," featuring his son and studio mate TruDog


Momentum, Compact Disc (CD)

By tobyMac / Emi Cmg Distribution


The third album from the dc talk solo projects has Tobymac going back to his hip-hop roots, with samples of familiar hooks combined with catchy rhymes and layered with gritty hard rock guitars. This album easily moves you with the smooth grooves of "In The Air" and rocks you with the blood pumping "Extreme Days."

DecembeRadio, Expanded Edition CD

By DecembeRadio / Slanted Records


Decemberadio's self-titled release features crunchy guitars and catchy hooks with a beefy rhythm section, resulting in ten tracks of groovy hard rock with a taste of southern blues. Includes "Can't Hide," "Love Found Me," "Table," and more.

This expanded edition of Decemberadio's Dove winning, Grammy nominated release includes two extra songs ("Find You Waiting" and an acoustic version of "Love Found Me"), plus enhanced CD video, song lyrics, and a fold-out poster.


Dangerous, Compact Disc [CD]

By Decemberadio / Infinity Music Distribution


On Dangerous, Virginia natives Decemberadio crank up the volume with vintage rock and roll chops and fist pumping rhythms. Includes a cover of Lenny Kravitz's hit "Are You Gonna Go My Way" as well as "Love Found Me," "Lifetime With You," and others.