What makes Winds of Heaven, Stuff of Earth by Rich Mullins notable?

This album features the iconic track 'Awesome God,' which became a staple in contemporary Christian worship and significantly impacted the genre's musical landscape. Its critical reception was positive, establishing Mullins as a prominent voice within Christian music, influencing countless artists in subsequent years. Released in 1988, Winds of Heaven, Stuff of Earth was Rich Mullins' third studio album, following his breakthrough with his previous album, Pictures in the Sky. At this point in his career, Mullins was solidifying his place in contemporary Christian music, moving toward deeper theological themes and personal storytelling that would define his later work.

How many songs are on Winds of Heaven, Stuff of Earth?

Winds of Heaven, Stuff of Earth has 10 tracks, running approximately 36 minutes.

Winds of Heaven, Stuff of Earth

Rich Mullins · 1988

36 min · 10 tracks · contemporary Christian music

A tapestry of heartfelt melodies infused with spiritual introspection and rich lyrical imagery reflecting life's complexities.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Awesome God — As one of Mullins' most recognizable songs, it combines simple yet powerful lyrics with an uplifting melody that resonates deeply within Christian communities.
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If I Stand — This track explores themes of faith and reliance on divine support, showcasing Mullins' ability to weave personal reflection into universal truths.
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Ready for the Storm — Its contemplative lyrics and emotive delivery highlight Mullins' skill in addressing life’s struggles through a spiritual lens, making it a poignant moment on the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

50 /100

Foothills

Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album features strong lyrical imagery and varied tempos but lacks a seamless flow throughout its runtime.

What we noticed

The album opens with a soft piano melody that gradually layers in strings, creating an atmospheric introduction.
Several tracks feature a call-and-response structure between Mullins' vocals and background harmonies, enhancing the communal feel.
The tempo varies significantly across tracks, with some maintaining a steady pace while others shift to more contemplative, slower moments.
Lyrically, the album often employs vivid imagery and metaphor, inviting listeners to engage deeply with the themes presented.

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: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

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 Other Side of the World 2:46
2 With the Wonder 4:32
3 Awesome God 3:05
4 If I Stand 3:46
5 Home 4:05
6 Such a Thing as Glory 2:44
7 ... and I Love You 3:55
8 Ready for the Storm 3:42
9 One True Love 4:08
10 How Can I Keep Myself From Singing 3:51

What to play next

Listen next

Never Picture Perfect

1989

Go back to

Pictures in the Sky

1987

Full Rich Mullins discography Artists like Rich Mullins

contemporary Christian music

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata