The albums that define
contemporary christian music.
Our picks for where to start with contemporary christian music — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top contemporary Christian music artists
Start with one of these.
The contemporary christian music essentials
Twenty-four picks. Press play on any of them.
MercyMe
MercyMe, It's Christmas!
A contemporary blend of festive cheer and heartfelt devotion, merging classic melodies with modern arrangements.
Start here
MercyMe
Wonder & Awe
A vibrant tapestry of contemporary Christian melodies intertwined with heartfelt lyrics exploring themes of faith and resilience.
Start here
Jeremy Camp
Burden Me
A heartfelt blend of acoustic melodies and introspective lyrics that explore faith and personal struggles.
Start here
Jeremy Camp
I Will Follow
Uplifting melodies intertwine with heartfelt lyrics, creating a sound that inspires and uplifts the spirit through contemporary Christian themes.
Start here
Planetshakers
Sé Quién Eres Tú
Energetic worship anthems blend with heartfelt ballads, creating a vibrant atmosphere of faith and celebration.
Start here
Planetshakers
Heal Our Land
Lush musical landscapes intertwine with heartfelt worship, creating an atmosphere of spiritual revival and communal joy.
Start here
Matthew West
History
A heartfelt exploration of faith and redemption wrapped in melodic contemporary Christian arrangements.
Start here
Matthew West
Live Forever
Uplifting melodies blend with heartfelt lyrics, creating anthems of faith and hope that resonate across contemporary Christian music.
Start here
Maverick City Music
Jubilee: Juneteenth Edition
'Jubilee: Juneteenth Edition' features a variety of songs that reflect the group's diverse influences and collaborative spirit. Its celebration of community and creativity makes it an ideal starting point for new listeners.
Start here
Maverick City Music
Jubilee
A vibrant tapestry weaving contemporary worship with gospel roots, uplifting melodies, and profound lyrical depth.
Start here
Brandon Lake
House of Miracles
'House of Miracles' encapsulates the heart of Brandon Lake’s artistry, blending personal expression with vibrant worship. It effectively introduces his lyrical themes and musical dynamics, making it an ideal entry point.
Start here
Brandon Lake
Help!
Uplifting melodies blend with heartfelt lyrics, creating a sonic landscape of hope and resilience in contemporary Christian music.
Start here
Hillsong United
Zion
This album captures the essence of Hillsong United's approach with its dynamic arrangements and themes of hope. It lays a strong foundation for understanding what makes their music resonate widely across various audiences.
Start here
Hillsong United
To the Ends of the Earth
An uplifting blend of contemporary worship and indie pop, characterized by soaring melodies and heartfelt lyrics.
Start here
Casting Crowns
Until the Whole World Hears
A sweeping blend of heartfelt melodies and uplifting messages that resonate with the contemporary Christian music landscape.
Start here
Casting Crowns
Come to the Well
Uplifting melodies intertwine with earnest lyrics, creating an inviting atmosphere for reflection and spiritual connection.
Start here
Newsboys
Thrive
Uplifting anthems blend bright melodies with powerful lyrics, crafting a sound that resonates with hope and faith.
Start here
Newsboys
Boys Will Be Boyz
Energetic melodies blend with uplifting lyrics, creating a vibrant sound that captures the essence of early '90s contemporary Christian music.
Start here
Phil Keaggy
Crimson and Blue
'Crimson and Blue' encapsulates both the technical prowess and emotional depth that define Keaggy's work. The album flows seamlessly, allowing newcomers to appreciate the variety within his style while staying rooted in his core themes.
Start here
Phil Keaggy
Find Me in These Fields
A serene blend of acoustic melodies and introspective lyrics woven into a tapestry of spiritual reflection.
Start here
Steven Curtis Chapman
Worship and Believe
A vibrant tapestry of live worship, blending heartfelt lyrics with dynamic instrumentation and an engaging communal spirit.
Start here
Steven Curtis Chapman
Speechless
'Speechless' captures the essence of Chapman's artistry with its blend of rich harmonies and profound themes. It serves as a comprehensive introduction to his approach to storytelling through music.
Start here
Marcos Witt
Hillsong Global Project: Español
Uplifting worship anthems are infused with vibrant Latin rhythms and heartfelt melodies that resonate deeply in Spanish-speaking congregations.
Start here
Marcos Witt
Te Anhelo
Uplifting melodies intertwine with heartfelt lyrics, creating an inviting atmosphere for spiritual reflection and worship.
Start here
By decade
Where contemporary Christian music landed in each era.