Christian rock, in its most simplistic form, is faith-based music that’s meant for worship, spreading peace, and celebration.
But the genre has evolved over time to feature some of the most talented artists in the music world.
In fact, some Christian rock bands have even gone as far as to sell millions of records, which speaks to the quality of some of these bands.
Christian rock has been around for more than 40 years, and its popularity has only been growing.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or you’re new to the genre, here’s a look at the best Christian rock bands of all time.
Top Best Christian Rock Bands of All Time
This list is based on: the highest album sales, popularity among fans, and impact on the genre.
Christian Hard Rock Bands
When you think of Christian hard rock bands, some of the first groups that come to mind are Stryper, Petra, and Alisa. These pioneers in the genre helped pave the way for other Christian hard rock bands that would come after them.
Even today, there is a thriving Christian hard rock scene, with new bands emerging all the time. Some of the most popular current Christian hard rock bands include Skillet, Disciple, and Red.
What sets these bands apart from their secular counterparts is their faith-based lyrics, which often speak to issues such as redemption and hope. This makes their music especially relevant and meaningful to Christian fans.
Despite sometimes being overlooked by the mainstream music industry, Christian hard rock bands have a rich history that spans decades. They continue to produce some of the most innovative and exciting music in the genre today.
- Barnabas
- 39 Stripes
- 7eventh Time Down
- Allies
- Mind Garage
- Liberty N’ Justice
- Neon Cross
- Oficina G3
- Pillar
- Charizma
Christian Rock Bands 2000s
Christian rock music enjoyed a resurgence in the early 2000s, with new bands and albums emerging to challenge the stereotype of Christian rock as “boring” or “uncool.”
The bands that emerged in this era crafted a unique sound that fused classic rock influences with modern worship sensibilities, creating a sound that was both fresh and timeless.
Here are some of the best Christian rock bands from the 2000s.
- Leeland – (rock, progressive rock, CCM) (2000–present)
- 12 Stones (hard rock, Christian rock) (2000–present)
- Matt Maher – (Christian rock) (2000-present)
- BarlowGirl – (Christian rock) (2000–2012)
- Mukala – (Christian rock) (1997–2000)
- Jeremy Camp – (Christian rock) (2000–present)
- Starfield – (rock, CCM) (2000–present)
- Ten Shekel Shirt – (Christian rock, rock) (2000–2008)
- Tenth Avenue North – (CCM, Christian rock) (2000–2021)
- Watashi Wa –(pop, Christian rock) (2000–2004)
80s Christian Rock Bands
The 1980s were an interesting time for Christian rock bands. While the genre had been around since the late 1960s, it really took off in popularity during the 80s. This was likely due in part to the fact that many mainstream rock bands of the era were incorporating religious themes into their music.
The Christian rock bands of the 80s were a diverse bunch, ranging from pop-oriented groups like Stryper to heavier metal acts like Vengeance Rising.
Despite their differences, these bands shared a common goal: to spread the message of Christianity through their music.
They also achieved a great deal of success, both commercially and critically. In fact, some Christian rock bands of the 80s are still active today, more than 30 years after they first formed.
- 4-4-1 – (1983–1988)
- The 77s –(1980–present)
- AD – (1984–1988)
- Mylon LeFevre and Broken Heart – (1982–1992)
- After the Fire – (1974–1986, 2004–2015)
- Alisa – (1983–present)
- Neon Cross – (1984–present)
- Newsboys – (1985–present)
- Pray for Rain – (1989–1997, 2001, 2004, 2006, 2012–2013)
- The Choir – (1984–present)
Christian Rock Bands of 90s
Just like in the 80s, many of the biggest names in Christian rock got their start in the 1990s. Stryper, P.O.D., and Skillet were all formed in that decade, and they continue to tour and release new music today.
The 90s was also home to a number of one-hit wonders, including Sixpence None the Richer and Jars of Clay.
Though the mainstream music industry largely ignored Christian rock, these bands found an audience among church-goers and youth groups.
Here are the Top 10 Best Christian Rock Bands of the 90s
- Third Day – (1990 – 2018)
- Jars of Clay – (1993 – Present)
- DC Talk – (1987 – 2001)
- Disciple – (1992 – Present)
- Newsboys – (1985 – Present)
- Bleach – (1995 – Present)
- LVL – (1996–present)
- Legend Seven – (1990–1994)
- All Star United – (1997–present)
- All Together Separate – (1998–2003)
Christian Hard Rock Bands of the 90s
Here are ten Christian Hard Rock Bands of the 90s.
- Liberty N’ Justice – (1991–present)
- Mastedon – (1987–present)
- Neon Cross – (1984–present)
- Oficina G3 – (1987–present)
- Candlefuse – (1999–present)
- Pillar – (1998–present)
- Rosa de Saron – (1988 – Prsent)
- Decyfer Down – (1999–present)
- Seventh Day Slumber – (1996 – Prsent)
- Fireflight – (1999–present)
Heavy Metal Christian Rock Bands
Heavy metal and Christian rock may seem like two genres that don’t belong together, but there are a number of bands that have combined the two to create a unique sound.
Some of the most well-known heavy metal Christian rock bands include Stryper, Skillet, and P.O.D. These bands often incorporate religious lyrics into their songs, but they also maintain the heavy metal sound that fans love.
Many people are surprised to find out that there is such thing as heavy metal Christian rock, but the genre has been around for decades.
- Atomic Opera
- Barnabas
- Bride
- Petra
- Resurrection Band
- Rosa de Saron
- Disciple
- Stavesacre
- Stryper
- Brian “Head” Welch
Popular Christian Rock Bands
There are many popular Christian rock bands.
One such band is Skillet. Skillet is a Grammy-nominated quartet from Memphis, Tennessee. The band has sold more than 11 million units and has had three RIAA-certified platinum albums and two gold albums.
Skillet’s 2009 album Awake was their most successful release, charting at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 chart and earning a Grammy nomination for “Best Rock Gospel Album.”
Another popular Christian rock band is Switchfoot. The San Diego-based band has released nine studio albums, selling more than 8 million copies worldwide.
Their 2005 album, Nothing Is Sound, was certified double platinum in the United States. In 2007, Switchfoot received a Grammy award for “Best Rock Gospel Album” for their album Oh! Gravity.
- Skillet
- Third Day
- Switchfoot
- Newsboys
- Thousand Foot Krutch
- Kutless
- P.O.D.
- Disciple
- Relient K
- Jars of Clay
- Casting Crowns
- Red
- Audio Adrenaline
- MercyMe
- Pillar
- Ashes Remain
- Family Force 5
- NEEDTOBREATHE
- for KING and COUNTRY
- We as Human
Southern Rock Christian Bands
Southern rock has long been associated with Christianity, and many bands throughout the years have identified themselves as Christian-based groups.
While there are certainly some mainstream acts that have Christian members or lyrics, there is a robust and thriving subgenre of southern rock bands that focus explicitly on their faith.
These groups often play traditional southern rock styles, with a focus on guitar-driven songs and strong vocal harmonies.
Lyrically, they often explore religious themes, but also touch on more general topics like family and community. Many of these bands are based in the South, but they have fans all over the country.
- Between Thieves
- Needtobreathe
- DecembeRadio
- Disciple
- Third Day
- Petra
- Three Crosses
- Rhett Walker Band
- Family Force 5
- Third Day
Contemporary Christian Music Christian Rock Bands
Contemporary Christian music (CCM) bands continue to play an important role in the church, and their songs continue to minister to millions of people around the globe.
Despite its popularity, CCM often faces criticism from traditionalists who believe that it is not “real” music. However, those within the CCM community know that this type of music is about far more than just making good tunes.
It is about using our gifts and talents to spread the gospel and minister to those who are hurting.
Many popular CCM bands got their start playing at churches and small venues. But as their music gained popularity, they began touring nationally and internationally.
Here are some of the best CCM Christian Rock Bands
- 33Miles (CCM, pop rock)
- Above the Golden State – (rock, CCM)
- Addison Road – (rock, CCM, alternative rock)
- MercyMe – (rock, CCM)
- Allies – (hard rock, rock, CCM)
- Mosiac MSC (CCM, Christian rock)
- BarlowGirl – (Christian rock, CCM, alternative rock, rock)
- Big Daddy Weave – (rock, CCM)
- New Jerusalem – (rock, CCM)
- Casting Crowns – (rock, CCM)
- Rush of Fools – (rock, CCM)
Christian Female Rock Bands
Since the early days of rock and roll, female performers have been breaking barriers and making their voices heard.
While the industry has long been dominated by men, women have continued to push back and carve out their own space.
In recent years, there has been a growing number of female Christian rock bands and artists making a name for themselves.
There are now several popular female-led Christian rock bands, including Skillet, Flyleaf, and The Letter Black. These bands are not only popular with Christians but with people of all faiths and backgrounds. Their music is powerful and inspiring, and their message is one of hope and redemption.
Female Christian rockers are proving that they can rock just as hard as the guys. They are also showing that they have something unique to offer the world of music.
- Flyleaf
- Skillet
- The Letter Black
- Superchick
- Natalie Grant
- Icon For Hire
- BarlowGirl
- ZOEgirl
Christian Punk Rock Bands
Punk and Christian rock have always been at odds with one another.
The punk scene is known for its rebelliousness and for shunning anything mainstream, while Christian rock is often seen as corny and pandering to the masses.
However, there are a number of punk bands that have started incorporating Christian themes into their music, and there are also a number of Christian rock bands that are starting to experiment with more punk sounds.
These bands often face criticism from both the Christian and secular communities.
Some people see them as being too rebellious or too “Christian” for their taste. However, these bands continue to thrive and grow in popularity.
- 4-4-1
- Ace Troubleshooter
- Lifesavers Underground
- Between Thieves
- One Bad Pig
- Children 18:3
- Relient K
- Royal Tailor
- Slick Shoes
- Everyday Sunday
Conclusion
So, there you have it folks: 100+ Best Christian Rock Bands of All Time. These are just a few of the best Christian rock bands of all time. There are many more bands that could have been mentioned, but these are some of the most well-known and highly respected groups in the genre.
If you’re looking for some great Christian rock music to listen to, then be sure to check out these bands!
FAQs
What is Christian Rock Music?
Christian rock music is a genre of rock music that emerged in the United States in the early 1970s and achieved popularity in the 1980s. It blends elements of rock music with religious lyrics. While some Christian rock bands eschew mainstream commercialism, others have achieved success on the pop charts.
How popular is Christian rock?
Christian rock is a genre of music that blends rock and roll with religious lyrics. The music is intended to spread peace and uplift god’s people. While it is not as popular as mainstream rock, there is a large and growing fan base for Christian rock. Some of the most popular bands in the genre include Switchfoot, Skillet, and Red.
Who is the most famous Christian rock band?
Christian rock music has been around for many years, with some bands becoming more popular than others. Skillet is one of the most famous Christian rock bands and has gained a large following over the years.
The band started in 1996 with two members, John and Korey Cooper.
They have since released eleven albums and continue to tour throughout the United States. Skillet’s music is based on their personal faith and beliefs, which resonates with their fans. Their songs are often about hope, love, redemption, and faith.
