What makes Songs for the Shepherd by Keith Green notable?

'Songs for the Shepherd' became a significant work in Christian music, praised for its theological depth and emotional resonance. It contributed to Green's legacy as a pioneer in the genre, influencing countless artists and garnering critical acclaim from publications like CCM Magazine. Released on April 12, 1982, 'Songs for the Shepherd' was Keith Green's third studio album and came at a time when he was solidifying his presence in the contemporary Christian music scene. Following the success of his previous albums, this release further emphasized his commitment to blending personal spirituality with musical artistry.

How many songs are on Songs for the Shepherd?

Songs for the Shepherd has 12 tracks, running approximately 41 minutes.

Songs for the Shepherd

Keith Green · 1982

41 min · 12 tracks · contemporary Christian music

A heartfelt blend of worship and reflection, merging melodic piano with intimate vocal delivery that resonates deeply within contemporary faith.

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Top tracks — play these first

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There Is a Redeemer — This track stands out for its poignant lyrics celebrating redemption, encapsulating Green's ability to convey profound spiritual truths through simple yet powerful melodies.
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How Majestic Is Thy Name (Psalm 8) — This song showcases Green's talent for setting scripture to music, resulting in an uplifting worship experience that highlights the majesty of creation.
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The Lord Is My Shepherd (Psalm 23) — Opening the album, this adaptation of a beloved psalm establishes the record's theme of divine guidance and comfort, drawing listeners into a reflective state.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The album effectively blends scripture and melody, creating a cohesive worship experience.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of piano as the primary instrument, with vocal harmonies layered throughout most tracks.
Several songs incorporate scripture directly, creating a thematic unity around biblical texts.
The tempo varies, with some tracks maintaining a slow, reflective pace while others build to more uplifting moments.
The last three tracks shift towards a more contemplative tone, concluding the album with a sense of resolution.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 8/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 The Lord Is My Shepherd (Psalm 23) 4:12
2 You Are the One! 2:41
3 How Majestic Is Thy Name (Psalm 8) 4:02
4 Draw Me 3:50
5 Glory Lord Jesus 3:21
6 There Is a Redeemer 3:12
7 The Promise Song 3:22
8 Until That Final Day 4:42
9 Jesus Is Lord of All 2:34
10 O God Our Lord 3:50
11 I Will Give Thanks to the Lord (Psalm 9) 1:49
12 Holy, Holy, Holy 3:40

What to play next

Listen next

The Prodigal Son

1983

Go back to

The Keith Green Collection

1981

Full Keith Green discography Artists like Keith Green

contemporary Christian music

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata