WikiChristian - User contributions [en]

WikiChristian talk:Village pump

2007-03-12T04:50:20Z

Jesusfreakdotcom: /* Recent page additions appear to have been greatly shortened */

This page is the main '''discussion forum''' for WikiChristian. Please bring up any technical or organizational topics here.

'''[http://www.wikichristian.org/index.php?title=Wikichristian:Village_pump&action=edit&section=new Add new post]'''



==Offer of inclusion of a Wikibook "Christianity"==
Hello, 
A couple of days ago I set up a wikibook for Christianity under wikipedia at http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Christianity 
I was browsing today to see if any search engines know about it, and I stumbled across this wiki site when searching yahoo. It looks to me that you've only recently set this up. It seems that a couple of people (apart from me) have started contributing to the wikibook I set up - it's still very small however. I'm wondering if you think I should move my articles over into your wiki and redirect anyone who browses my wiki to yours. Or perhaps the wikibook I've started doesn't quite fit into what you had envisaged for this wiki, in which case, I won't make any changes. I'm not particularly familiar with communicating in wiki, so I hope you find this message. Could you let me know if I should move my articles into this wiki site or not; let me know via my email, you'll find my email address at http://www.users.on.net/~graham_grove/contact.htm I've written a brief summary of why I set up the wikibook "Christianity" at http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/About_this_wikibook%2C_%22Christianity%22

Thanks 
Graham Grove 
Jaunary 15 2005

:Graham To declare an interest - I am an atheist - but I am not here to vandalise, far from it! Why am I here then? Though an atheist I find Christianity of great interest, as the most influential single idea of the last 2,000 years. I acknowledge the debt of all modern thinkers to the work of Christian theologists and philosophers. Apart from contributing an article on atheism, and possibly one on arguments for the existence of God, I have a certain amount of knowledge of Christianity and can contribute to historical articles, though not on doctrinal matters such as the trinity, which passeth my (if not all) understanding. That is, I can DESCRIBE such matters but not from within, and not with the understanding that comes from faith. I am not sure what form you intend this "wikipedia" to take. Your articles are in the 1st person. Whilst this is appropriate for a faith based largely on revalation and personal experience of God, I imagined an encylopedia of Christianity to be more like, say, the Catholic Encyclopedia, giving a more objective, 3rd person view (but still having a definite pro-Christian point of view). Of course a Christian encyclopedia will have to accomodate a wide variety of points of view so will have to, when addressing controversial issues (transubstantiation, the trinity, immaculate conception) present rival views extremely carefully. Now this could be done by having 1st person articles by those with different views - or a 3rd person article describing the rival views. --[[User:Exile|Exile]] 07:30, 3 Feb 2005 (PST)

:::Hi Exile, I just read through your articles on atheism. Good work. Thanks for contributing. My vision of ChristianWiki is not for it to be a replica of wikipedia. I've also looked befeore at the Catholic Encyclopedia, and I don't believe that WikiChristian should follow a similar format either. For faith based issues, everyone has different opinions, so every-one should be able to write about their beliefs and opinions (1st person articles as you say). Like you say, it's also good that people write articles describing differing views. (Of course, the problem is there is always someone who is unhappy with how a particular opinion is being portrayed. But I hope instead of a person overwriting or changing another person's article [unless it is clearly trying to incite anger or is obviously factually incorrect], that the person just writes another alternative article on the same topic). I hope you don't mind, but I moved your articles into a sub-location so that other people can write articles on the same topic, without having to change yours.

::::OK. I see what your aim is now. In this context my article may not have been appropriate as it was more in the vein of wikipedia, trying (if not succeeding) to present an objective rather than personal view. I may be able to provide a contribution to an "existence of God" section, looking at the various arguments (ontological, intelligent design and so on). Not sure I could contribute much elsewhere as so much of Christianity is dependent on the "axiom" of the existence of a God who loves humanity. Atheists do debate such things as the historicity of Jesus etc but such a point of view probably doesn't belong here. --[[User:Exile|Exile]] 08:49, 4 Feb 2005 (PST)

:::::Exile, I'm not sure that third person objective articles would be out of place here. From what I can see there is a bit of both...and I think that is good, to have both personal experience articles, as well as perhaps a main article (or at least an article somewhere) that is more objective, inclusive, etc, etc...Just my thoughts. --[[User:Cpark|Cpark]] 10:47, 4 Feb 2005 (PST)

== MediaWiki 1.5.4 is available ==

Just a note to the website administrator, as of this comment, MediaWiki 1.5.4 is available. I would highly recommend the upgrade, especially since the site is still running on 1.3.9. Have a merry Christmas! --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Ymmotrojam]] 03:23, 23 Dec 2005 (EST)

== New Logo ==
The previous logo, a sunflower, looked rather pagan to me. So I was pleasantly surprised to see a more relevant logo. Nevertheless, I would have considered it more appropriate had the Holy Bible be shown as an ''open' rather than a closed book... 05:24, 9 Jan 2006 (EST)

== WikiChristian in addition to Wikipedia Christian articles? ==

I have previously expressed that I consider it a mistake to have a separate WikiChristian. Logically this calls for the setting up of WikiJudaism, WikiIslam etc (I have not checked, maybe work on them is already under way). It seems to me to go against the aim of the founder of Wikipedia which I understand is to have one centralised encyclopedic source for all knowledge. At present the Christian articles in Wikipedia have sub-chapters presenting divergent teachings of various Christian denominations as well as non-Christian religions on the same subject. This is one of Wikipedia's finest achievements. Or is going to be, I hope, once it is all finished. Right now I am by no means always happy with the quality of what I see on my occasional visits to Wikipedia; but I commend the format and appreciate the enormous effort that goes into bringing the material together in this way, and protecting it subsequently, and have high hopes for the final result.

Furthermore, to be practical, many a qualified contributor will not have the time to contribute to two sources on the same subjects and then to watch over them what someone less qualified perhaps makes of them. This is a problem already in Wikipedia, for example, when there is one article on a book, another on its author, a third on his fan club, to generalise the issue. Since Wikipedia insists that the articles need to be self-contained, so to speak, because they may be freely quoted elsewhere where the cross-referencing does not work, this means that already a contributor says much the same in more than one place. Now, to do the same in a separate WikiChristian? Will it not lower the standard? I have done some useful brushing up of some material where I know what I am saying and then had a tough time repairing subsequent edits by others whose do-gooding was not matched by an equal amount of specialist knowledge. I most certainly would not want to go through the same process in two encyclopedias. Life is too short; and I do have a life, and very much so. In fact, having burnt much midnight oil and used up vast quantities of elbow grease contributing sound edits and then endlessly defending them, especially against editors with a different agenda, this modus operandi finally caused me to give up the idea of contributing articles or even just major edits to Wikipedia. Occasionally, over a sandwich or cup of coffee, I still pay a brief visit to Wikipedia and either am appalled by the result of some big-headed ignorance or bias that I find, or delighted at efforts attributable to brave soldiering on; but I no longer think it feasible for me to try to help to pull the cart out of the mud, if that's where it is at that moment of my visit. (If I am alone with this reaction, then I would like to hear the secret of where others find the necessary time.) I suggest that the present Wikipedia articles on Christian subjects show that, with suitable sub-headings, even the intended aim of WikiChristian can be incorporated. And that of Judaism, Islam, and indeed any religion that feels they have something to contribute, e.g. Hinduism on the Trinity (Trimurti). But let all Wiki efforts be inclusive rather than divisive. The great point of Wikipedia is that the contributors are asked to agree to disagree (NPOV) so that its readers can make up their own mind. Dividing the efforts means placing the intended effectiveness of Wikipedia in jeopardy. Rally round Wikipedia to achieve its founder's aim! 05:24, 9 Jan 2006 (EST)

:I think the issue of NPOV on Wikipedia is a contentious one for editors of religious based articles. Christians do have a point of view that is not shared by all. To present a subject from a Christian point of view is exactly what this wiki does, without having to cater to the ideological/semantic concerns of those who have a differing POV outside of Christianity. Wikipedia has its own set of goals and concerns that are not really related to the goals and concerns of WikiChristian. WikiChristian will host articles that would never even be considered by Wikipedia. Additionally it will categorise articles in ways that are more relevant to Christian content. I strongly doubt that the existence of WikiChristian is in anyway a threat to the Wikipedia nor will it place in jeopardy the religious based articles on Wikipedia. In terms of comparing the scale of Wikipedia to the scale of WikiChristian, we are talking about comparing a mountain to a mole hill. Wikipedia is a huge and complex endeavour, with thousands of editors. WikiChristian by comparison is a minnow amongst wikis. There really is no comparison to be made. --[[User:Mustaphile|Mustaphile]] 08:01, 16 Jan 2006 (EST)

== Question on wikipedia ==
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Talk:WikiChristian

==Collaborative Project (First Samuel)==
I've kick started a collaborative project with a fairly simple and easily attainable goal. The completion of First Samuel in the [[Matthew Henry Commentary on the Whole Bible]] article. Please see the [[Wikichristian:Community Portal|Community Portal]] Collaborative Projects notice for further information. --[[User:Mustaphile|Mustaphile]] 14:11, 20 April 2006 (EDT)

==Welcome Stranger==
Someone may be impersonating [[User:Mustaphile]]. Totally uncharacteristic. [[User:Athrash|Athrash]] | [[User_talk:Athrash|{Talk)]] 00:04, 11 May 2006 (PDT)
:Yeah, they signed up with my nickname, but substituted a capital 'i' for the lowercase 'l' in my nickname. The way the fonts look on the screen its barely noticeable. :) --[[User:Mustaphile|Mustaphile]] 02:42, 12 May 2006 (PDT)

==Wikichristian Editing Permissions==
I see that we are facing significant amount of spam in the wiki. One of dealing with is to restrict unlogged user's ability to edit pages. While it does restrict unregistered users to edit pages, it does prevent spam bots and other not so serious spammers. Please leave your comments about this idea on this page.

--[[User:69.136.74.78|69.136.74.78]] 16:48, 12 May 2006 (PDT)
:I think it would be a worthwile move to limit editing to registered users only. --[[User:Mustaphile|Mustaphile]] 00:41, 13 May 2006 (PDT)

I went ahead and made the required change so that only logged in users can edit pages. We will see how this works for awhile. If we decide latter to change this setting, we can always do so. Please leave your comments here.

--[[User:Prab|Prab]] 01:42, 13 May 2006 (PDT)

== moving should only be for sysops ==

I would highly suggest that moving pages be restricted to sysops and higher only. We've been getting a lot of mass-moving-vandalism lately, and it isn't important enough for regular users to have that ability with what has been happening. my two cents --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 22:17, 19 May 2006 (PDT)
:I think its a good point. I didn't know it was possible myself. The current activity in terms of editing is not of such a high quantity that sysops couldn't keep up with move requests. We could make a special move request page and handle those ourselves. If at some stage in the future the volume of moves requested grows, perhaps we could look at renabling users to move pages. --[[User:Mustaphile|Mustaphile]] 22:54, 19 May 2006 (PDT)

::to whoever has access to the server, you would need to add this to the LocalSettings.php file in order to turn off moving for regular users... <pre>$wgGroupPermissions['user']['move'] = false;</pre>--[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 23:01, 19 May 2006 (PDT)
::Thanks for that, Tom. Perhaps you could give Prab a heads up on his talk page concerning this message. --[[User:Mustaphile|Mustaphile]] 23:03, 19 May 2006 (PDT)

== Images ==

Hi Prab,

I've noticed that there seems to be problems with pictures. Thumbnails and resizing images do not seem to work. Is ImageMagick installed? Is there something else that needs to be done? --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 18:29, 26 July 2006 (PDT)

== Side-bar ==

Although the side-bar at the left with all the links can be useful, I think it is too large and cumbersome, and makes the "Search" function difficult to reach. I suggest that we minimise the links on the left hand side. Thoughts? --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 09:08, 28 July 2006 (PDT)

:I say we should just take it back to the default, and then decide what should be there. If no one disagrees, I'll make the change at 1:30pm eastern time. --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 09:41, 28 July 2006 (PDT)

:: Excellent. That would be great. --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 09:47, 28 July 2006 (PDT)

:: PS - By the way, if you know how to do that, then maybe you know how to get it so we can upload images and resize them and use thumbnails - none of these features seem to be working. --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 09:47, 28 July 2006 (PDT)

:::That would require Prab, but anyone that is a sysop can edit the sidebar by going to [[MediaWiki:Sidebar]] --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 09:49, 28 July 2006 (PDT)

::::Much better. --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 10:06, 28 July 2006 (PDT)

== Staying up to date with MediaWiki ==

If WikiChristian is going to survive in the fast paced world today, it really needs to stay up to date with the latest Wiki technology. Currently it is two MediaWiki version branches behind the latest stable version. I also realize that the server does not have the latest versions of MySQL and PHP which are required by the latest MediaWiki, which may be the reason WikiChristian has not been upgraded yet, but I think we should make this a priority! --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 12:38, 28 July 2006 (PDT)

== Fixing bugs ==

It has been mentioned previously (scroll up to the comment about [[{{NAMESPACE}}:{{PAGENAME}}#Images|images]]), but we should really try to nail down the bugs with the server. There's nothing worse than a website that anyone can edit, but no one can edit it because of internal bugs. I could probably fix them in 30 minutes if I had access to the server, but I don't. I'll start a to-do list of bugs that need fixing, feel free to add to it. --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 12:46, 28 July 2006 (PDT)
* Images (we should be able to upload and resize without errors)
* Spam (really, this could be a thing of the past) There's captchas, registration blacklists, user creation logs, and keyword blacklists avilable that could be implemented to pretty much stop all spam
*:''Yes, there are many things people propose that are intended to reduce spam -- but too many of them are more hassle than they are worth. There's a long discussion at http://c2.com/cgi/wiki?WikiSpamSolutions '' {{unsigned|DavidCary}}
*::Possibly many are more hassle, but they can also be configured to be the same protection, but less of a hassle. For example, on Wikible, you have to enter a captcha (code in a image), if you are an anonymous user, and you add a link to an external website. Registered users don't have to deal with this, and it's only when they add a link. They can easily add other content without being bothered by it. That's one example where it can be highly effective, not too obtrusive, and give somewhat of an incentive to register. --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 08:47, 29 July 2006 (PDT)
* Search results reveal a blank page! --[[User:RockOfVictory|J. J.]] 18:13, 31 July 2006 (PDT)
* I'd really like to see the index.php removed from the URL, too.[http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Eliminating_index.php_from_the_url] Prab, get in here and help us out! --[[User:RockOfVictory|J. J.]] 18:13, 31 July 2006 (PDT)

== moving text from other wiki ==

If no one objects, I plan to move text from
http://wikiindex.com/Category:Christians
to
[[Christian]],
leaving behind a link to
http://wikichristian.org/index.php/Christian
.
(See http://wikiindex.com/Category_talk:Christians ).

Is there a standard policy on moving stuff from other wiki into WikiChristian,
or from WikiChristian to some other wiki?

--[[User:DavidCary|DavidCary]] 08:00, 29 July 2006 (PDT)

:basically it's cite your source, and be sure that it is released in the public domain, there are no conflicts with any TOS, or that it is released under the GFDL :-) --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 08:40, 29 July 2006 (PDT)

::<del>Doesn't the GFDL allow copying from one GFDL to another without needed to cite? It may make sense to mention that it's from Wikipedia, etc., but not required, right?</del> EDIT: Scratch that. I just read up on the GFDL a little more; see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Reusing_Wikipedia_content#Modified_Versions this Wikipedia policy] for the licensing in layman's terms. --[[User:RockOfVictory|J. J.]] 20:03, 31 July 2006 (PDT)

== Some major changes NEED to happen ==

If this wiki is going to surive, some big organizational things need to happen. I've heard the discussion on that WikiChristian doesn't want to be a copy of Wikipedia, but that just doesn't work and is creating chaos. Here are my suggestions. Please comment within a few days whether you like them or not<del>, otherwise I will just start doing it myself.</del>
*<del>Delete everything that isn't editable (carm articles for example, because of copyright)</del>
*Either delete or source the images and media with a LINK
*Create root category page
*<del>Delete articles directly copied from other sources</del> (they should/can be merged into one wikichristian article later, but there shouldn't be multiple articles for the same topic)
*Standardize the templates. There's a working system of templates over at Wikipedia, and we should work off of theirs, rather than reinvent the wheel.
*User pages shouldn't be in the main namespace
*There should be one article, we shouldn't be having all this overview mess. Most of the articles aren't large enough to be worth an "overview"
*We need to just get rid of all the Bible dictionary/encyclopedia stuff. The way WikiChristian is doing it is just causing more work and chaos than necessary, plus it really isn't that useful. People can go to the original source to find it. Besides the fact that other Christian wikis are doing better at this.
*The main page is just disgusting and needs to be totally done away with
*All the Bible text pages like... ''Genesis 1:1 (WEB)''... <del>just need to be deleted</del>. There's a better way, and other wikis are using that better way.
--[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 09:14, 9 October 2006 (EST)

:I disagree with most of your points.
:*I don't think we should delete things that aren't editable. There is a place for them because (1) they can still be wikified and (2) if they are an opinion, it is fair that they remain unchanged - see also [[Talk:CARM]]
:*I disagree that we should use the same templates as wikipedia. Why is their wheel the right one for us?
:*It is perfectly reasonable for there to be multiple articles on a topic. I agree that there should be one neutral point of view encyclopedia article, but why can't we have opinion articles. For example, I like the article [[Church]], with its encyclopedia page [[Church (overview)]] (which I agree needs more work) and its opinion articles [[What is the Church? (G.G.)]] and [[The Church (justforcatholics.org)]] and [[Talk:Church/discussion]].
:*I think the Bible dictionary type stuff is useful, and I think it is best to keep it in its original text but wikify it. I disagree with you and do not think we should remove it.
:*There may be a better way than [[Genesis 1:1 (WEB)]], but I don't think the other wikis have found it. With this system, it will be possible to have an unlimited number of translations - you could have Genesis 1:1 (KJV) for King James, Genesis 1:1 (Vulgate) for Latin, Genesis 1:1 (Hebrew) for Hebrew and so on. Then under [[Genesis 1:1]] there could be links to all of those, as well as opinion articles and sermons and related topics specific to Genesis 1:1
:*Maybe the main page is disgusting and needs to be redone. But if it is redone in the fashion of wikipedia, wikible, or theopedia then I disagree completely - I do not think that is the best style for this sort of wiki. The main page could certainly be improved and completely changed, so please, show an alternative. But I think making it like wikipedia would be a big mistake. Firstly, I believe it needs to be easy to navigate from the main page to the main topics. Secondly, lets not have "Todays featured article" etc. because, lets face it, we don't have the resources to change articles often.

:Tom, it seems you and I have very different ideas on how to make this wiki open to growth and open to differing views of different Christians from different denominational backgrounds. There is no right way or wrong way. I happen to think your suggestions however will not make WikiChristian open to growth, but will ultimately stifle growth. --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 00:59, 10 October 2006 (EST)

More thoughts...
*'''Copyrighted material''': The only reason I say that is because it seems wikifying it really isn't that big of a benefit to be worth the time and effort of inserting it here. We should focus on stuff that really makes a difference, not linking articles. If we can't edit them, it's not that big in my opinion.
*'''Templates''': Of course everything won't be the same, and I'm not advocating that, but surely there are some administrative styled templates that can be duplicated, that are just common every-day wiki stuff. Although I think WikiChristian's idea of distancing itself with Wikipedia is good, I think it's going to an extreme that makes it harder.
*'''Commentary''': Personally I'd prefer for user-written commentary to be in the user namespace. It looks very unprofessional to come across an article that is in the main namespace, which most opinion pieces I've seen aren't very well formatted or cited. I agree we need them.
*'''Bible dictionary''': I kind of think it's pointless to have a ''Bible dictionary article'' that explains something, than have other separate articles that also explain it. Why not just one? Combine the dictionary and the article together.
*'''Verse pages''': I would say that a few other wikis have found a better way. At Wikible we're working on a Verse Management System based on ideas gained from BibleWiki. Also there's a ReformedWord wiki that is also using similar techniques. Some of these things WikiChristian isn't even capable of technically (yet). Read more about it on Wikible http://wikible.org/en/Wikible:Scripture.
*'''Main Page''': I agree with you on the main page. A balance between functionality and beauty is a struggle. Yes, it should be unique and reflect WikiChristian's goals, but it shouldn't look bad. No we can't do dailys, but we can do monthly, that's not really that hard. And I'm not advocating that we have featured anything, just that it looks better ;-).
Yes, I do have very different ideas, which are probably more a branch off of the shoulders of other wikis, but I think we can definitely keep the goals of WikiChristian by learning from what others have done. Will my ideas stifle growth? Maybe, but that depends on whether you think it's growing now with its current methods. I guess if I were to summarize my thoughts and personality, I'm more of a ''throw away what I don't use'' kinda guy, which can have its benefits and drawbacks. I say that alienating yourself too much form other wikis will and has hurt, but also there needs to be a way to define the differences. --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 14:45, 10 October 2006 (EST)
:I'm having similar discussions with other ChristianWikis about this as well. The problem that exists is that there are people that like to copy in a lot of content and then organize later, but then there are people that would rather organize it as it is being inserted. In this case with WikiChristian, we simply have a LOT of text to deal with ([[Special:Statistics|{{NUMBEROFARTICLES}}]] articles in fact), some of which may have not have any sources, etc, and it has gotten kind of crazy. If it was organized along the way, there wouldn't be this problem. --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 14:55, 10 October 2006 (EST)

::Okay. I'm happy to agree to disagree. Let's wait and see what the few other users think. --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 17:07, 10 October 2006 (EST)

===Unique Identity===
I think it is important to have a unique identity at the same time as having a good looking website. I agree that the mainpage needs to be totally revamped. It just does not represent what all wikichristian has inside and is un-inspiring! We need to have some action on the main page that keeps changing everyday like the wikipedia's featured articles. We can do project of the week, featured passage, featured article etc. as part of the main page.

I disagree that we need to delete what ever content we have including the bible verses. We spent so much time on it and I think they do help in terms of users finding the information via search engines better.

As far as the overview is concerned, I agree it kind of is a bit too many articles and there is no main article that is large enough. However, changing all the existing pages may be a huge task and I am not sure if we want to spend that much time on that. We may, however, want to change the format to something better - like wikipedia, where there is a single article with inline links and not so much at the bottom.

Whatever we decide, let us make sure we do not let this go anywhere near a wiki war! Let us agree to disagree on some topics while agreeing to work together on others. --[[User:Prab|Prab]] 14:32, 17 October 2006 (EST)

:agreed --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 20:32, 18 October 2006 (EST)

===additional thoughts===
Okay, so deleting the stuff was a little too much as I now see ;-). Although I think some content here serves very little to helping WikiChristian, it would be an enormous task. Also, there are probably better things that can be done rather than just deletion. Anyways, in the very least, I think we should come up with a list of things ([[Wikichristian:To do list]]) that need to be done in order to get this site back to where it should be. We will need to do some serious consensus-styled planning in order to make a system that is efficient and does not create duplicate unnecessary articles. I will be in and out over the next few weeks writing some ideas and analyzing the wiki some more. I apologize if I offended anyone in the process of making my comments. I know a lot of work has been put into this project, but that doesn't mean it has been organized in the best way possible. I also would have to admit that for the other wikis that I participate in. Not all my or others ideas are correct either, and sometimes the best thing for me to do is just go along with what has been established ;-).

As it says in Proverbs 23:10 "''Do not move the ancient boundary...''" --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 21:03, 18 October 2006 (EST)

Thanks Tom. You've made some excellent points. I look forward to reading more of your ideas and appreciate all the hard work you have put into the various Christian wikis, this one included. I think ultimately, we need to keep the content coming. Organization and ideas only go so far. So long as we all keep adding content and the site grows in actual real content, then the site will become more useful. I agree with you that the statistics are misleading. Perhaps we should remove them from the front page. A to do list is very important - in fact there is one already - [[Wikichristian:To-do list]]. Also, there is the [[Wikichristian:Priority Pages]] section which directs people to some of the more important pages that need work done. Please, add some pages into this section that feel need work. --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 22:36, 21 October 2006 (EST)

== statistics are misleading ==

What can we do about the statistics? Honestly I think they are misleading to the amount of actual content that is on WikiChristian. For example, there are thousands of articles, that all they have on them is a verse. Not that it is necessarily a bad thing, but it makes it look like all those numbers are actual content... --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 14:30, 21 October 2006 (EST)

: Agreed. We can remove the statistics. --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 22:10, 21 October 2006 (EST)

==Front page==

Well, recently Tom and Prab have mentioned that they would like a new front page. Let's work together and design a new one then. I'll put my two cents worth in:

* '''Box for links''' - I like to see a box on the side which links to the most important pages: [[Christianity]] | [[God]] | [[Jesus Christ]] | [[Essence of Christianity]] | [[Bible]] | [[Christian literature, art, music and media]] | [[Church]] | [[Church history]] | [[Denominations]] | [[Famous Christians]] | [[Christian doctrine and debates]] | [[Grace]] | [[Love]] | [[Current issues]] | [[News]] | [[Cults and other religions]] | [[Places]] | [[Mission]] | [[World-wide church directory]]
* Relevant pictures - I would like to see a few pictures
* Statement about Christianity - I would like to see a brief statement about Christianity
* Minimize house-keeping content - I think we should minimize WikiChristian house-keeping related links and information, i.e. not have paragraphs of information about technical detail etc;

I'd like to hear other people's ideas

Perhaps we could create a new page at [[Main Page: Future]]

--[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 22:27, 21 October 2006 (EST)

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== How to edit page subjects? ==

I'm back for the first time in a while and have just added pages for a few Christian rock/metal bands, since music is one of my passions, but I didn't think to uppercase the subject header when I first typed it in the search box, and now the page header for [http://www.wikichristian.org/Barren_cross Barren Cross] has a lowercase "c" that I can't figure out how to change. I didn't see what looked like any options on the template for changing subject headers. --[[User:Jesusfreakdotcom|Jesusfreakdotcom]] 12:57, 21 November 2006 (EST)

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== Graphics/banners to link to this site? ==
I'd like to add a Wikichristian link on my website, but think a graphic would probably be more noticeable than just a text link. I tried copying the Wikichristian image on the upper-left corner of the page templates, but that doesn't seem to work. Is there a place where I can grab a graphic, or a URL for a graphic that I can link to?--[[User:Jesusfreakdotcom|Jesusfreakdotcom]] 01:44, 22 November 2006 (EST)

:You might have to be creative ;-) --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 07:53, 22 November 2006 (EST)

----
== Recent entries appear severely truncated ==
I just noticed that several of the entries about Christian bands that I've posted the past couple of days have been cut to little more than a bare-bones description and no details. Is this an automated truncation? Who or what is Muser? It appears that Muser was the last person or program to edit my files.
--[[User:Jesusfreakdotcom|Jesusfreakdotcom]] 13:04, 22 November 2006 (EST)

Sorry for the swift action. I truncated them because they looked like they were directly cut and paste from wikipedia, with all the links, categories and non-existant pictures left in, without any editing or changes. Because we're not an exact replica of wikipedia, I truncated them so they could have a more independent life of their own. --[[User:Muser|Muser]] 15:46, 22 November 2006 (EST)

== Problem: Disappearing recent changes ==

I notice that all the changes made from November 23 to November 25, of which there were quite a few that I made, and possibly changes that others made, have not appeared in the "Recent changes" section. Why would this be? --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 05:07, 27 November 2006 (EST)

: Well, at least this change appeared in "Recent changes". So perhaps, whatever the problem was has been fixed. --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 05:09, 27 November 2006 (EST)

==New Post==

Bible references: How should these be cited? Wikipedia has templates for bibleref and bibleverse. What exists here? Can multiple translations (KJV, NKJV, NIV, NASB, etc.) be used? -- [[User:Ssot|Ssot]]

:I don't know if we have a reference system in place. Does anyone know if we do? -- [[User:P.B. Pilhet|P.B. Pilhet]] / [[User talk:P.B. Pilhet|Talk]] 14:34, 27 November 2006 (EST)

:Just put the passage in, for example [[John 3:16]], [[Mark 2]] or [[Genesis]]. That will hopefully link to the correct passage. Most of the Bible is uploaded so far (WEB version; and there is room for any other version to also be uploaded or added later). --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 03:00, 29 November 2006 (EST)

==Featured Content==

The current featured content ([[Old Testament (overview)]] has been up now for more than a week. Shouldn't we change it? -- [[User:P.B. Pilhet|P.B. Pilhet]] / [[User talk:P.B. Pilhet|Talk]] 20:45, 27 November 2006 (EST)

== Acceptable Content ==

Has anybody noticed the contributions that [[User:Cfunk|Cfunk]] has made? His latest have been to the [[RciaSmmSchedule]]. Are these pages acceptable content on WikiChristian, or not? -- [[User:P.B. Pilhet|P.B. Pilhet]] / [[User talk:P.B. Pilhet|Talk]] 17:13, 28 November 2006 (EST)

: Yes, I've noticed. I think that his content is fine. If he is using WikiChristian to put up a roster and timetable for his particular church then that's good. It would be nice if he would create a page for his church and a link to the roster, but ultimately, what he's putting up is fine I think. --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 03:07, 29 November 2006 (EST)

== Move Vandalism ==

We just recently got hit with ''two'' major "move" vandalism incidents. I had a hard time cleaning up the second (I actually double reverted a few times). We should really consider restricting the move ability to sysops only. I think the time we spend reverting these vandals isn't worth leaving the feature open to the public. Just a suggestion. -- [[User:P.B. Pilhet|P.B. Pilhet]] / [[User talk:P.B. Pilhet|Talk]] 20:29, 28 November 2006 (EST)

P.S. -- I took the liberty to "move protect" every administrator's user page, since they've been the main target for vandals. -- 20:36, 28 November 2006 (EST)

: Thanks for your work Justin. I agree with you that we should restrict moving to administrators. I don't know how to do that though. If you do, go ahead and do so, otherwise we'll ask Tom or Prab. --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 03:04, 29 November 2006 (EST)

== Problems with images ==

I seem to be unable to upload images. This has been happening for a while now. I get an error message saying

: Could not copy file "/tmp/phpu9H8lS" to "/var/www/vhosts/wikichristian.org/httpdocs/images/temp/0/0d/20061202023409!Christmas_tree.jpg".

Does anyone know how to fix it? --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 21:36, 1 December 2006 (EST)

OUTSTANDING.
the work on teshuqa from lessons 16-18, is simply outstanding.
thank you.
outstanding.

== Recent page additions appear to have been greatly shortened ==

I was just browsing the Recent Changes link and noticed that several of the profile pages I'd created for various Christian musicians have been seriously trimmed down by Muser. Is this an automated process, or is it just temporary? Have there been syntax or other errors with the pages I've been creating that are causing this to happen?
--[[User:jesusfreakdotcom|jesusfreakdotcom]] 06:30, 7 March 2007 (EST)

: I've shortened them because they appeared to be cut and pastes directly from wikipedia full of pictures that don't exist in wikichristian, full of templates that aren't in wikichristian and full of links that have no need to exist in wikichristian. You also overwrote some pages that already existed. I apologise for not giving you some warning, and I apologise if I am wrong and they were not direct cuts from wikipedia. If you want to pull an article from wikipedia that's fine, but it's only worth doing it if you don't copy everything exactly as it is with links to non-existant images and templates etc. If you really want the pages exactly as you had them, they can all be reverted back to the form you originally had them very easily. My opinion is that it is better though to start with simpler, less cluttered articles though. --[[User:Muser|Muser]] 05:11, 7 March 2007 (EST)

::Sorry about that. I guess I'm still a relative newbie with this. I'll go back and repost and majorly trim the bad template code from the entries I'd posted recently so the information will be there but all of the random stuff will be cut. I guess I'm just a little over-eager to help. :-) --[[User:jesusfreakdotcom|jesusfreakdotcom]] 02:50, 12 March 2007 (EST)

WikiChristian talk:Village pump

2007-03-12T04:49:39Z

Jesusfreakdotcom: /* Recent page additions appear to have been greatly shortened */

This page is the main '''discussion forum''' for WikiChristian. Please bring up any technical or organizational topics here.

'''[http://www.wikichristian.org/index.php?title=Wikichristian:Village_pump&action=edit&section=new Add new post]'''



==Offer of inclusion of a Wikibook "Christianity"==
Hello, 
A couple of days ago I set up a wikibook for Christianity under wikipedia at http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Christianity 
I was browsing today to see if any search engines know about it, and I stumbled across this wiki site when searching yahoo. It looks to me that you've only recently set this up. It seems that a couple of people (apart from me) have started contributing to the wikibook I set up - it's still very small however. I'm wondering if you think I should move my articles over into your wiki and redirect anyone who browses my wiki to yours. Or perhaps the wikibook I've started doesn't quite fit into what you had envisaged for this wiki, in which case, I won't make any changes. I'm not particularly familiar with communicating in wiki, so I hope you find this message. Could you let me know if I should move my articles into this wiki site or not; let me know via my email, you'll find my email address at http://www.users.on.net/~graham_grove/contact.htm I've written a brief summary of why I set up the wikibook "Christianity" at http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/About_this_wikibook%2C_%22Christianity%22

Thanks 
Graham Grove 
Jaunary 15 2005

:Graham To declare an interest - I am an atheist - but I am not here to vandalise, far from it! Why am I here then? Though an atheist I find Christianity of great interest, as the most influential single idea of the last 2,000 years. I acknowledge the debt of all modern thinkers to the work of Christian theologists and philosophers. Apart from contributing an article on atheism, and possibly one on arguments for the existence of God, I have a certain amount of knowledge of Christianity and can contribute to historical articles, though not on doctrinal matters such as the trinity, which passeth my (if not all) understanding. That is, I can DESCRIBE such matters but not from within, and not with the understanding that comes from faith. I am not sure what form you intend this "wikipedia" to take. Your articles are in the 1st person. Whilst this is appropriate for a faith based largely on revalation and personal experience of God, I imagined an encylopedia of Christianity to be more like, say, the Catholic Encyclopedia, giving a more objective, 3rd person view (but still having a definite pro-Christian point of view). Of course a Christian encyclopedia will have to accomodate a wide variety of points of view so will have to, when addressing controversial issues (transubstantiation, the trinity, immaculate conception) present rival views extremely carefully. Now this could be done by having 1st person articles by those with different views - or a 3rd person article describing the rival views. --[[User:Exile|Exile]] 07:30, 3 Feb 2005 (PST)

:::Hi Exile, I just read through your articles on atheism. Good work. Thanks for contributing. My vision of ChristianWiki is not for it to be a replica of wikipedia. I've also looked befeore at the Catholic Encyclopedia, and I don't believe that WikiChristian should follow a similar format either. For faith based issues, everyone has different opinions, so every-one should be able to write about their beliefs and opinions (1st person articles as you say). Like you say, it's also good that people write articles describing differing views. (Of course, the problem is there is always someone who is unhappy with how a particular opinion is being portrayed. But I hope instead of a person overwriting or changing another person's article [unless it is clearly trying to incite anger or is obviously factually incorrect], that the person just writes another alternative article on the same topic). I hope you don't mind, but I moved your articles into a sub-location so that other people can write articles on the same topic, without having to change yours.

::::OK. I see what your aim is now. In this context my article may not have been appropriate as it was more in the vein of wikipedia, trying (if not succeeding) to present an objective rather than personal view. I may be able to provide a contribution to an "existence of God" section, looking at the various arguments (ontological, intelligent design and so on). Not sure I could contribute much elsewhere as so much of Christianity is dependent on the "axiom" of the existence of a God who loves humanity. Atheists do debate such things as the historicity of Jesus etc but such a point of view probably doesn't belong here. --[[User:Exile|Exile]] 08:49, 4 Feb 2005 (PST)

:::::Exile, I'm not sure that third person objective articles would be out of place here. From what I can see there is a bit of both...and I think that is good, to have both personal experience articles, as well as perhaps a main article (or at least an article somewhere) that is more objective, inclusive, etc, etc...Just my thoughts. --[[User:Cpark|Cpark]] 10:47, 4 Feb 2005 (PST)

== MediaWiki 1.5.4 is available ==

Just a note to the website administrator, as of this comment, MediaWiki 1.5.4 is available. I would highly recommend the upgrade, especially since the site is still running on 1.3.9. Have a merry Christmas! --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Ymmotrojam]] 03:23, 23 Dec 2005 (EST)

== New Logo ==
The previous logo, a sunflower, looked rather pagan to me. So I was pleasantly surprised to see a more relevant logo. Nevertheless, I would have considered it more appropriate had the Holy Bible be shown as an ''open' rather than a closed book... 05:24, 9 Jan 2006 (EST)

== WikiChristian in addition to Wikipedia Christian articles? ==

I have previously expressed that I consider it a mistake to have a separate WikiChristian. Logically this calls for the setting up of WikiJudaism, WikiIslam etc (I have not checked, maybe work on them is already under way). It seems to me to go against the aim of the founder of Wikipedia which I understand is to have one centralised encyclopedic source for all knowledge. At present the Christian articles in Wikipedia have sub-chapters presenting divergent teachings of various Christian denominations as well as non-Christian religions on the same subject. This is one of Wikipedia's finest achievements. Or is going to be, I hope, once it is all finished. Right now I am by no means always happy with the quality of what I see on my occasional visits to Wikipedia; but I commend the format and appreciate the enormous effort that goes into bringing the material together in this way, and protecting it subsequently, and have high hopes for the final result.

Furthermore, to be practical, many a qualified contributor will not have the time to contribute to two sources on the same subjects and then to watch over them what someone less qualified perhaps makes of them. This is a problem already in Wikipedia, for example, when there is one article on a book, another on its author, a third on his fan club, to generalise the issue. Since Wikipedia insists that the articles need to be self-contained, so to speak, because they may be freely quoted elsewhere where the cross-referencing does not work, this means that already a contributor says much the same in more than one place. Now, to do the same in a separate WikiChristian? Will it not lower the standard? I have done some useful brushing up of some material where I know what I am saying and then had a tough time repairing subsequent edits by others whose do-gooding was not matched by an equal amount of specialist knowledge. I most certainly would not want to go through the same process in two encyclopedias. Life is too short; and I do have a life, and very much so. In fact, having burnt much midnight oil and used up vast quantities of elbow grease contributing sound edits and then endlessly defending them, especially against editors with a different agenda, this modus operandi finally caused me to give up the idea of contributing articles or even just major edits to Wikipedia. Occasionally, over a sandwich or cup of coffee, I still pay a brief visit to Wikipedia and either am appalled by the result of some big-headed ignorance or bias that I find, or delighted at efforts attributable to brave soldiering on; but I no longer think it feasible for me to try to help to pull the cart out of the mud, if that's where it is at that moment of my visit. (If I am alone with this reaction, then I would like to hear the secret of where others find the necessary time.) I suggest that the present Wikipedia articles on Christian subjects show that, with suitable sub-headings, even the intended aim of WikiChristian can be incorporated. And that of Judaism, Islam, and indeed any religion that feels they have something to contribute, e.g. Hinduism on the Trinity (Trimurti). But let all Wiki efforts be inclusive rather than divisive. The great point of Wikipedia is that the contributors are asked to agree to disagree (NPOV) so that its readers can make up their own mind. Dividing the efforts means placing the intended effectiveness of Wikipedia in jeopardy. Rally round Wikipedia to achieve its founder's aim! 05:24, 9 Jan 2006 (EST)

:I think the issue of NPOV on Wikipedia is a contentious one for editors of religious based articles. Christians do have a point of view that is not shared by all. To present a subject from a Christian point of view is exactly what this wiki does, without having to cater to the ideological/semantic concerns of those who have a differing POV outside of Christianity. Wikipedia has its own set of goals and concerns that are not really related to the goals and concerns of WikiChristian. WikiChristian will host articles that would never even be considered by Wikipedia. Additionally it will categorise articles in ways that are more relevant to Christian content. I strongly doubt that the existence of WikiChristian is in anyway a threat to the Wikipedia nor will it place in jeopardy the religious based articles on Wikipedia. In terms of comparing the scale of Wikipedia to the scale of WikiChristian, we are talking about comparing a mountain to a mole hill. Wikipedia is a huge and complex endeavour, with thousands of editors. WikiChristian by comparison is a minnow amongst wikis. There really is no comparison to be made. --[[User:Mustaphile|Mustaphile]] 08:01, 16 Jan 2006 (EST)

== Question on wikipedia ==
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Talk:WikiChristian

==Collaborative Project (First Samuel)==
I've kick started a collaborative project with a fairly simple and easily attainable goal. The completion of First Samuel in the [[Matthew Henry Commentary on the Whole Bible]] article. Please see the [[Wikichristian:Community Portal|Community Portal]] Collaborative Projects notice for further information. --[[User:Mustaphile|Mustaphile]] 14:11, 20 April 2006 (EDT)

==Welcome Stranger==
Someone may be impersonating [[User:Mustaphile]]. Totally uncharacteristic. [[User:Athrash|Athrash]] | [[User_talk:Athrash|{Talk)]] 00:04, 11 May 2006 (PDT)
:Yeah, they signed up with my nickname, but substituted a capital 'i' for the lowercase 'l' in my nickname. The way the fonts look on the screen its barely noticeable. :) --[[User:Mustaphile|Mustaphile]] 02:42, 12 May 2006 (PDT)

==Wikichristian Editing Permissions==
I see that we are facing significant amount of spam in the wiki. One of dealing with is to restrict unlogged user's ability to edit pages. While it does restrict unregistered users to edit pages, it does prevent spam bots and other not so serious spammers. Please leave your comments about this idea on this page.

--[[User:69.136.74.78|69.136.74.78]] 16:48, 12 May 2006 (PDT)
:I think it would be a worthwile move to limit editing to registered users only. --[[User:Mustaphile|Mustaphile]] 00:41, 13 May 2006 (PDT)

I went ahead and made the required change so that only logged in users can edit pages. We will see how this works for awhile. If we decide latter to change this setting, we can always do so. Please leave your comments here.

--[[User:Prab|Prab]] 01:42, 13 May 2006 (PDT)

== moving should only be for sysops ==

I would highly suggest that moving pages be restricted to sysops and higher only. We've been getting a lot of mass-moving-vandalism lately, and it isn't important enough for regular users to have that ability with what has been happening. my two cents --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 22:17, 19 May 2006 (PDT)
:I think its a good point. I didn't know it was possible myself. The current activity in terms of editing is not of such a high quantity that sysops couldn't keep up with move requests. We could make a special move request page and handle those ourselves. If at some stage in the future the volume of moves requested grows, perhaps we could look at renabling users to move pages. --[[User:Mustaphile|Mustaphile]] 22:54, 19 May 2006 (PDT)

::to whoever has access to the server, you would need to add this to the LocalSettings.php file in order to turn off moving for regular users... <pre>$wgGroupPermissions['user']['move'] = false;</pre>--[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 23:01, 19 May 2006 (PDT)
::Thanks for that, Tom. Perhaps you could give Prab a heads up on his talk page concerning this message. --[[User:Mustaphile|Mustaphile]] 23:03, 19 May 2006 (PDT)

== Images ==

Hi Prab,

I've noticed that there seems to be problems with pictures. Thumbnails and resizing images do not seem to work. Is ImageMagick installed? Is there something else that needs to be done? --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 18:29, 26 July 2006 (PDT)

== Side-bar ==

Although the side-bar at the left with all the links can be useful, I think it is too large and cumbersome, and makes the "Search" function difficult to reach. I suggest that we minimise the links on the left hand side. Thoughts? --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 09:08, 28 July 2006 (PDT)

:I say we should just take it back to the default, and then decide what should be there. If no one disagrees, I'll make the change at 1:30pm eastern time. --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 09:41, 28 July 2006 (PDT)

:: Excellent. That would be great. --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 09:47, 28 July 2006 (PDT)

:: PS - By the way, if you know how to do that, then maybe you know how to get it so we can upload images and resize them and use thumbnails - none of these features seem to be working. --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 09:47, 28 July 2006 (PDT)

:::That would require Prab, but anyone that is a sysop can edit the sidebar by going to [[MediaWiki:Sidebar]] --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 09:49, 28 July 2006 (PDT)

::::Much better. --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 10:06, 28 July 2006 (PDT)

== Staying up to date with MediaWiki ==

If WikiChristian is going to survive in the fast paced world today, it really needs to stay up to date with the latest Wiki technology. Currently it is two MediaWiki version branches behind the latest stable version. I also realize that the server does not have the latest versions of MySQL and PHP which are required by the latest MediaWiki, which may be the reason WikiChristian has not been upgraded yet, but I think we should make this a priority! --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 12:38, 28 July 2006 (PDT)

== Fixing bugs ==

It has been mentioned previously (scroll up to the comment about [[{{NAMESPACE}}:{{PAGENAME}}#Images|images]]), but we should really try to nail down the bugs with the server. There's nothing worse than a website that anyone can edit, but no one can edit it because of internal bugs. I could probably fix them in 30 minutes if I had access to the server, but I don't. I'll start a to-do list of bugs that need fixing, feel free to add to it. --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 12:46, 28 July 2006 (PDT)
* Images (we should be able to upload and resize without errors)
* Spam (really, this could be a thing of the past) There's captchas, registration blacklists, user creation logs, and keyword blacklists avilable that could be implemented to pretty much stop all spam
*:''Yes, there are many things people propose that are intended to reduce spam -- but too many of them are more hassle than they are worth. There's a long discussion at http://c2.com/cgi/wiki?WikiSpamSolutions '' {{unsigned|DavidCary}}
*::Possibly many are more hassle, but they can also be configured to be the same protection, but less of a hassle. For example, on Wikible, you have to enter a captcha (code in a image), if you are an anonymous user, and you add a link to an external website. Registered users don't have to deal with this, and it's only when they add a link. They can easily add other content without being bothered by it. That's one example where it can be highly effective, not too obtrusive, and give somewhat of an incentive to register. --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 08:47, 29 July 2006 (PDT)
* Search results reveal a blank page! --[[User:RockOfVictory|J. J.]] 18:13, 31 July 2006 (PDT)
* I'd really like to see the index.php removed from the URL, too.[http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Eliminating_index.php_from_the_url] Prab, get in here and help us out! --[[User:RockOfVictory|J. J.]] 18:13, 31 July 2006 (PDT)

== moving text from other wiki ==

If no one objects, I plan to move text from
http://wikiindex.com/Category:Christians
to
[[Christian]],
leaving behind a link to
http://wikichristian.org/index.php/Christian
.
(See http://wikiindex.com/Category_talk:Christians ).

Is there a standard policy on moving stuff from other wiki into WikiChristian,
or from WikiChristian to some other wiki?

--[[User:DavidCary|DavidCary]] 08:00, 29 July 2006 (PDT)

:basically it's cite your source, and be sure that it is released in the public domain, there are no conflicts with any TOS, or that it is released under the GFDL :-) --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 08:40, 29 July 2006 (PDT)

::<del>Doesn't the GFDL allow copying from one GFDL to another without needed to cite? It may make sense to mention that it's from Wikipedia, etc., but not required, right?</del> EDIT: Scratch that. I just read up on the GFDL a little more; see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Reusing_Wikipedia_content#Modified_Versions this Wikipedia policy] for the licensing in layman's terms. --[[User:RockOfVictory|J. J.]] 20:03, 31 July 2006 (PDT)

== Some major changes NEED to happen ==

If this wiki is going to surive, some big organizational things need to happen. I've heard the discussion on that WikiChristian doesn't want to be a copy of Wikipedia, but that just doesn't work and is creating chaos. Here are my suggestions. Please comment within a few days whether you like them or not<del>, otherwise I will just start doing it myself.</del>
*<del>Delete everything that isn't editable (carm articles for example, because of copyright)</del>
*Either delete or source the images and media with a LINK
*Create root category page
*<del>Delete articles directly copied from other sources</del> (they should/can be merged into one wikichristian article later, but there shouldn't be multiple articles for the same topic)
*Standardize the templates. There's a working system of templates over at Wikipedia, and we should work off of theirs, rather than reinvent the wheel.
*User pages shouldn't be in the main namespace
*There should be one article, we shouldn't be having all this overview mess. Most of the articles aren't large enough to be worth an "overview"
*We need to just get rid of all the Bible dictionary/encyclopedia stuff. The way WikiChristian is doing it is just causing more work and chaos than necessary, plus it really isn't that useful. People can go to the original source to find it. Besides the fact that other Christian wikis are doing better at this.
*The main page is just disgusting and needs to be totally done away with
*All the Bible text pages like... ''Genesis 1:1 (WEB)''... <del>just need to be deleted</del>. There's a better way, and other wikis are using that better way.
--[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 09:14, 9 October 2006 (EST)

:I disagree with most of your points.
:*I don't think we should delete things that aren't editable. There is a place for them because (1) they can still be wikified and (2) if they are an opinion, it is fair that they remain unchanged - see also [[Talk:CARM]]
:*I disagree that we should use the same templates as wikipedia. Why is their wheel the right one for us?
:*It is perfectly reasonable for there to be multiple articles on a topic. I agree that there should be one neutral point of view encyclopedia article, but why can't we have opinion articles. For example, I like the article [[Church]], with its encyclopedia page [[Church (overview)]] (which I agree needs more work) and its opinion articles [[What is the Church? (G.G.)]] and [[The Church (justforcatholics.org)]] and [[Talk:Church/discussion]].
:*I think the Bible dictionary type stuff is useful, and I think it is best to keep it in its original text but wikify it. I disagree with you and do not think we should remove it.
:*There may be a better way than [[Genesis 1:1 (WEB)]], but I don't think the other wikis have found it. With this system, it will be possible to have an unlimited number of translations - you could have Genesis 1:1 (KJV) for King James, Genesis 1:1 (Vulgate) for Latin, Genesis 1:1 (Hebrew) for Hebrew and so on. Then under [[Genesis 1:1]] there could be links to all of those, as well as opinion articles and sermons and related topics specific to Genesis 1:1
:*Maybe the main page is disgusting and needs to be redone. But if it is redone in the fashion of wikipedia, wikible, or theopedia then I disagree completely - I do not think that is the best style for this sort of wiki. The main page could certainly be improved and completely changed, so please, show an alternative. But I think making it like wikipedia would be a big mistake. Firstly, I believe it needs to be easy to navigate from the main page to the main topics. Secondly, lets not have "Todays featured article" etc. because, lets face it, we don't have the resources to change articles often.

:Tom, it seems you and I have very different ideas on how to make this wiki open to growth and open to differing views of different Christians from different denominational backgrounds. There is no right way or wrong way. I happen to think your suggestions however will not make WikiChristian open to growth, but will ultimately stifle growth. --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 00:59, 10 October 2006 (EST)

More thoughts...
*'''Copyrighted material''': The only reason I say that is because it seems wikifying it really isn't that big of a benefit to be worth the time and effort of inserting it here. We should focus on stuff that really makes a difference, not linking articles. If we can't edit them, it's not that big in my opinion.
*'''Templates''': Of course everything won't be the same, and I'm not advocating that, but surely there are some administrative styled templates that can be duplicated, that are just common every-day wiki stuff. Although I think WikiChristian's idea of distancing itself with Wikipedia is good, I think it's going to an extreme that makes it harder.
*'''Commentary''': Personally I'd prefer for user-written commentary to be in the user namespace. It looks very unprofessional to come across an article that is in the main namespace, which most opinion pieces I've seen aren't very well formatted or cited. I agree we need them.
*'''Bible dictionary''': I kind of think it's pointless to have a ''Bible dictionary article'' that explains something, than have other separate articles that also explain it. Why not just one? Combine the dictionary and the article together.
*'''Verse pages''': I would say that a few other wikis have found a better way. At Wikible we're working on a Verse Management System based on ideas gained from BibleWiki. Also there's a ReformedWord wiki that is also using similar techniques. Some of these things WikiChristian isn't even capable of technically (yet). Read more about it on Wikible http://wikible.org/en/Wikible:Scripture.
*'''Main Page''': I agree with you on the main page. A balance between functionality and beauty is a struggle. Yes, it should be unique and reflect WikiChristian's goals, but it shouldn't look bad. No we can't do dailys, but we can do monthly, that's not really that hard. And I'm not advocating that we have featured anything, just that it looks better ;-).
Yes, I do have very different ideas, which are probably more a branch off of the shoulders of other wikis, but I think we can definitely keep the goals of WikiChristian by learning from what others have done. Will my ideas stifle growth? Maybe, but that depends on whether you think it's growing now with its current methods. I guess if I were to summarize my thoughts and personality, I'm more of a ''throw away what I don't use'' kinda guy, which can have its benefits and drawbacks. I say that alienating yourself too much form other wikis will and has hurt, but also there needs to be a way to define the differences. --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 14:45, 10 October 2006 (EST)
:I'm having similar discussions with other ChristianWikis about this as well. The problem that exists is that there are people that like to copy in a lot of content and then organize later, but then there are people that would rather organize it as it is being inserted. In this case with WikiChristian, we simply have a LOT of text to deal with ([[Special:Statistics|{{NUMBEROFARTICLES}}]] articles in fact), some of which may have not have any sources, etc, and it has gotten kind of crazy. If it was organized along the way, there wouldn't be this problem. --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 14:55, 10 October 2006 (EST)

::Okay. I'm happy to agree to disagree. Let's wait and see what the few other users think. --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 17:07, 10 October 2006 (EST)

===Unique Identity===
I think it is important to have a unique identity at the same time as having a good looking website. I agree that the mainpage needs to be totally revamped. It just does not represent what all wikichristian has inside and is un-inspiring! We need to have some action on the main page that keeps changing everyday like the wikipedia's featured articles. We can do project of the week, featured passage, featured article etc. as part of the main page.

I disagree that we need to delete what ever content we have including the bible verses. We spent so much time on it and I think they do help in terms of users finding the information via search engines better.

As far as the overview is concerned, I agree it kind of is a bit too many articles and there is no main article that is large enough. However, changing all the existing pages may be a huge task and I am not sure if we want to spend that much time on that. We may, however, want to change the format to something better - like wikipedia, where there is a single article with inline links and not so much at the bottom.

Whatever we decide, let us make sure we do not let this go anywhere near a wiki war! Let us agree to disagree on some topics while agreeing to work together on others. --[[User:Prab|Prab]] 14:32, 17 October 2006 (EST)

:agreed --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 20:32, 18 October 2006 (EST)

===additional thoughts===
Okay, so deleting the stuff was a little too much as I now see ;-). Although I think some content here serves very little to helping WikiChristian, it would be an enormous task. Also, there are probably better things that can be done rather than just deletion. Anyways, in the very least, I think we should come up with a list of things ([[Wikichristian:To do list]]) that need to be done in order to get this site back to where it should be. We will need to do some serious consensus-styled planning in order to make a system that is efficient and does not create duplicate unnecessary articles. I will be in and out over the next few weeks writing some ideas and analyzing the wiki some more. I apologize if I offended anyone in the process of making my comments. I know a lot of work has been put into this project, but that doesn't mean it has been organized in the best way possible. I also would have to admit that for the other wikis that I participate in. Not all my or others ideas are correct either, and sometimes the best thing for me to do is just go along with what has been established ;-).

As it says in Proverbs 23:10 "''Do not move the ancient boundary...''" --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 21:03, 18 October 2006 (EST)

Thanks Tom. You've made some excellent points. I look forward to reading more of your ideas and appreciate all the hard work you have put into the various Christian wikis, this one included. I think ultimately, we need to keep the content coming. Organization and ideas only go so far. So long as we all keep adding content and the site grows in actual real content, then the site will become more useful. I agree with you that the statistics are misleading. Perhaps we should remove them from the front page. A to do list is very important - in fact there is one already - [[Wikichristian:To-do list]]. Also, there is the [[Wikichristian:Priority Pages]] section which directs people to some of the more important pages that need work done. Please, add some pages into this section that feel need work. --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 22:36, 21 October 2006 (EST)

== statistics are misleading ==

What can we do about the statistics? Honestly I think they are misleading to the amount of actual content that is on WikiChristian. For example, there are thousands of articles, that all they have on them is a verse. Not that it is necessarily a bad thing, but it makes it look like all those numbers are actual content... --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 14:30, 21 October 2006 (EST)

: Agreed. We can remove the statistics. --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 22:10, 21 October 2006 (EST)

==Front page==

Well, recently Tom and Prab have mentioned that they would like a new front page. Let's work together and design a new one then. I'll put my two cents worth in:

* '''Box for links''' - I like to see a box on the side which links to the most important pages: [[Christianity]] | [[God]] | [[Jesus Christ]] | [[Essence of Christianity]] | [[Bible]] | [[Christian literature, art, music and media]] | [[Church]] | [[Church history]] | [[Denominations]] | [[Famous Christians]] | [[Christian doctrine and debates]] | [[Grace]] | [[Love]] | [[Current issues]] | [[News]] | [[Cults and other religions]] | [[Places]] | [[Mission]] | [[World-wide church directory]]
* Relevant pictures - I would like to see a few pictures
* Statement about Christianity - I would like to see a brief statement about Christianity
* Minimize house-keeping content - I think we should minimize WikiChristian house-keeping related links and information, i.e. not have paragraphs of information about technical detail etc;

I'd like to hear other people's ideas

Perhaps we could create a new page at [[Main Page: Future]]

--[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 22:27, 21 October 2006 (EST)

----

== How to edit page subjects? ==

I'm back for the first time in a while and have just added pages for a few Christian rock/metal bands, since music is one of my passions, but I didn't think to uppercase the subject header when I first typed it in the search box, and now the page header for [http://www.wikichristian.org/Barren_cross Barren Cross] has a lowercase "c" that I can't figure out how to change. I didn't see what looked like any options on the template for changing subject headers. --[[User:Jesusfreakdotcom|Jesusfreakdotcom]] 12:57, 21 November 2006 (EST)

----

== Graphics/banners to link to this site? ==
I'd like to add a Wikichristian link on my website, but think a graphic would probably be more noticeable than just a text link. I tried copying the Wikichristian image on the upper-left corner of the page templates, but that doesn't seem to work. Is there a place where I can grab a graphic, or a URL for a graphic that I can link to?--[[User:Jesusfreakdotcom|Jesusfreakdotcom]] 01:44, 22 November 2006 (EST)

:You might have to be creative ;-) --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 07:53, 22 November 2006 (EST)

----
== Recent entries appear severely truncated ==
I just noticed that several of the entries about Christian bands that I've posted the past couple of days have been cut to little more than a bare-bones description and no details. Is this an automated truncation? Who or what is Muser? It appears that Muser was the last person or program to edit my files.
--[[User:Jesusfreakdotcom|Jesusfreakdotcom]] 13:04, 22 November 2006 (EST)

Sorry for the swift action. I truncated them because they looked like they were directly cut and paste from wikipedia, with all the links, categories and non-existant pictures left in, without any editing or changes. Because we're not an exact replica of wikipedia, I truncated them so they could have a more independent life of their own. --[[User:Muser|Muser]] 15:46, 22 November 2006 (EST)

== Problem: Disappearing recent changes ==

I notice that all the changes made from November 23 to November 25, of which there were quite a few that I made, and possibly changes that others made, have not appeared in the "Recent changes" section. Why would this be? --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 05:07, 27 November 2006 (EST)

: Well, at least this change appeared in "Recent changes". So perhaps, whatever the problem was has been fixed. --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 05:09, 27 November 2006 (EST)

==New Post==

Bible references: How should these be cited? Wikipedia has templates for bibleref and bibleverse. What exists here? Can multiple translations (KJV, NKJV, NIV, NASB, etc.) be used? -- [[User:Ssot|Ssot]]

:I don't know if we have a reference system in place. Does anyone know if we do? -- [[User:P.B. Pilhet|P.B. Pilhet]] / [[User talk:P.B. Pilhet|Talk]] 14:34, 27 November 2006 (EST)

:Just put the passage in, for example [[John 3:16]], [[Mark 2]] or [[Genesis]]. That will hopefully link to the correct passage. Most of the Bible is uploaded so far (WEB version; and there is room for any other version to also be uploaded or added later). --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 03:00, 29 November 2006 (EST)

==Featured Content==

The current featured content ([[Old Testament (overview)]] has been up now for more than a week. Shouldn't we change it? -- [[User:P.B. Pilhet|P.B. Pilhet]] / [[User talk:P.B. Pilhet|Talk]] 20:45, 27 November 2006 (EST)

== Acceptable Content ==

Has anybody noticed the contributions that [[User:Cfunk|Cfunk]] has made? His latest have been to the [[RciaSmmSchedule]]. Are these pages acceptable content on WikiChristian, or not? -- [[User:P.B. Pilhet|P.B. Pilhet]] / [[User talk:P.B. Pilhet|Talk]] 17:13, 28 November 2006 (EST)

: Yes, I've noticed. I think that his content is fine. If he is using WikiChristian to put up a roster and timetable for his particular church then that's good. It would be nice if he would create a page for his church and a link to the roster, but ultimately, what he's putting up is fine I think. --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 03:07, 29 November 2006 (EST)

== Move Vandalism ==

We just recently got hit with ''two'' major "move" vandalism incidents. I had a hard time cleaning up the second (I actually double reverted a few times). We should really consider restricting the move ability to sysops only. I think the time we spend reverting these vandals isn't worth leaving the feature open to the public. Just a suggestion. -- [[User:P.B. Pilhet|P.B. Pilhet]] / [[User talk:P.B. Pilhet|Talk]] 20:29, 28 November 2006 (EST)

P.S. -- I took the liberty to "move protect" every administrator's user page, since they've been the main target for vandals. -- 20:36, 28 November 2006 (EST)

: Thanks for your work Justin. I agree with you that we should restrict moving to administrators. I don't know how to do that though. If you do, go ahead and do so, otherwise we'll ask Tom or Prab. --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 03:04, 29 November 2006 (EST)

== Problems with images ==

I seem to be unable to upload images. This has been happening for a while now. I get an error message saying

: Could not copy file "/tmp/phpu9H8lS" to "/var/www/vhosts/wikichristian.org/httpdocs/images/temp/0/0d/20061202023409!Christmas_tree.jpg".

Does anyone know how to fix it? --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 21:36, 1 December 2006 (EST)

OUTSTANDING.
the work on teshuqa from lessons 16-18, is simply outstanding.
thank you.
outstanding.

== Recent page additions appear to have been greatly shortened ==

I was just browsing the Recent Changes link and noticed that several of the profile pages I'd created for various Christian musicians have been seriously trimmed down by Muser. Is this an automated process, or is it just temporary? Have there been syntax or other errors with the pages I've been creating that are causing this to happen?
--[[User:jesusfreakdotcom|jesusfreakdotcom]] 06:30, 7 March 2007 (EST)

: I've shortened them because they appeared to be cut and pastes directly from wikipedia full of pictures that don't exist in wikichristian, full of templates that aren't in wikichristian and full of links that have no need to exist in wikichristian. You also overwrote some pages that already existed. I apologise for not giving you some warning, and I apologise if I am wrong and they were not direct cuts from wikipedia. If you want to pull an article from wikipedia that's fine, but it's only worth doing it if you don't copy everything exactly as it is with links to non-existant images and templates etc. If you really want the pages exactly as you had them, they can all be reverted back to the form you originally had them very easily. My opinion is that it is better though to start with simpler, less cluttered articles though. --[[User:Muser|Muser]] 05:11, 7 March 2007 (EST)

::Sorry about that. I guess I'm still a relative newbie with this. I'll go back and repost and majorly trim the bad template code from the entries I'd posted recently so the information will be there but all of the random stuff will be cut. I guess I'm just a little over-eager to help. :-)
--[[User:jesusfreakdotcom|jesusfreakdotcom]] 02:50, 12 March 2007 (EST)

WikiChristian talk:Village pump

2007-03-07T09:31:49Z

Jesusfreakdotcom: /* Recent changes appear to have been greatly shortened */

WikiChristian talk:Village pump

2007-03-07T09:30:16Z

Jesusfreakdotcom: Recent changes appear to have been greatly shortened

This page is the main '''discussion forum''' for WikiChristian. Please bring up any technical or organizational topics here.

'''[http://www.wikichristian.org/index.php?title=Wikichristian:Village_pump&action=edit&section=new Add new post]'''



==Offer of inclusion of a Wikibook "Christianity"==
Hello, 
A couple of days ago I set up a wikibook for Christianity under wikipedia at http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Christianity 
I was browsing today to see if any search engines know about it, and I stumbled across this wiki site when searching yahoo. It looks to me that you've only recently set this up. It seems that a couple of people (apart from me) have started contributing to the wikibook I set up - it's still very small however. I'm wondering if you think I should move my articles over into your wiki and redirect anyone who browses my wiki to yours. Or perhaps the wikibook I've started doesn't quite fit into what you had envisaged for this wiki, in which case, I won't make any changes. I'm not particularly familiar with communicating in wiki, so I hope you find this message. Could you let me know if I should move my articles into this wiki site or not; let me know via my email, you'll find my email address at http://www.users.on.net/~graham_grove/contact.htm I've written a brief summary of why I set up the wikibook "Christianity" at http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/About_this_wikibook%2C_%22Christianity%22

Thanks 
Graham Grove 
Jaunary 15 2005

:Graham To declare an interest - I am an atheist - but I am not here to vandalise, far from it! Why am I here then? Though an atheist I find Christianity of great interest, as the most influential single idea of the last 2,000 years. I acknowledge the debt of all modern thinkers to the work of Christian theologists and philosophers. Apart from contributing an article on atheism, and possibly one on arguments for the existence of God, I have a certain amount of knowledge of Christianity and can contribute to historical articles, though not on doctrinal matters such as the trinity, which passeth my (if not all) understanding. That is, I can DESCRIBE such matters but not from within, and not with the understanding that comes from faith. I am not sure what form you intend this "wikipedia" to take. Your articles are in the 1st person. Whilst this is appropriate for a faith based largely on revalation and personal experience of God, I imagined an encylopedia of Christianity to be more like, say, the Catholic Encyclopedia, giving a more objective, 3rd person view (but still having a definite pro-Christian point of view). Of course a Christian encyclopedia will have to accomodate a wide variety of points of view so will have to, when addressing controversial issues (transubstantiation, the trinity, immaculate conception) present rival views extremely carefully. Now this could be done by having 1st person articles by those with different views - or a 3rd person article describing the rival views. --[[User:Exile|Exile]] 07:30, 3 Feb 2005 (PST)

:::Hi Exile, I just read through your articles on atheism. Good work. Thanks for contributing. My vision of ChristianWiki is not for it to be a replica of wikipedia. I've also looked befeore at the Catholic Encyclopedia, and I don't believe that WikiChristian should follow a similar format either. For faith based issues, everyone has different opinions, so every-one should be able to write about their beliefs and opinions (1st person articles as you say). Like you say, it's also good that people write articles describing differing views. (Of course, the problem is there is always someone who is unhappy with how a particular opinion is being portrayed. But I hope instead of a person overwriting or changing another person's article [unless it is clearly trying to incite anger or is obviously factually incorrect], that the person just writes another alternative article on the same topic). I hope you don't mind, but I moved your articles into a sub-location so that other people can write articles on the same topic, without having to change yours.

::::OK. I see what your aim is now. In this context my article may not have been appropriate as it was more in the vein of wikipedia, trying (if not succeeding) to present an objective rather than personal view. I may be able to provide a contribution to an "existence of God" section, looking at the various arguments (ontological, intelligent design and so on). Not sure I could contribute much elsewhere as so much of Christianity is dependent on the "axiom" of the existence of a God who loves humanity. Atheists do debate such things as the historicity of Jesus etc but such a point of view probably doesn't belong here. --[[User:Exile|Exile]] 08:49, 4 Feb 2005 (PST)

:::::Exile, I'm not sure that third person objective articles would be out of place here. From what I can see there is a bit of both...and I think that is good, to have both personal experience articles, as well as perhaps a main article (or at least an article somewhere) that is more objective, inclusive, etc, etc...Just my thoughts. --[[User:Cpark|Cpark]] 10:47, 4 Feb 2005 (PST)

== MediaWiki 1.5.4 is available ==

Just a note to the website administrator, as of this comment, MediaWiki 1.5.4 is available. I would highly recommend the upgrade, especially since the site is still running on 1.3.9. Have a merry Christmas! --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Ymmotrojam]] 03:23, 23 Dec 2005 (EST)

== New Logo ==
The previous logo, a sunflower, looked rather pagan to me. So I was pleasantly surprised to see a more relevant logo. Nevertheless, I would have considered it more appropriate had the Holy Bible be shown as an ''open' rather than a closed book... 05:24, 9 Jan 2006 (EST)

== WikiChristian in addition to Wikipedia Christian articles? ==

I have previously expressed that I consider it a mistake to have a separate WikiChristian. Logically this calls for the setting up of WikiJudaism, WikiIslam etc (I have not checked, maybe work on them is already under way). It seems to me to go against the aim of the founder of Wikipedia which I understand is to have one centralised encyclopedic source for all knowledge. At present the Christian articles in Wikipedia have sub-chapters presenting divergent teachings of various Christian denominations as well as non-Christian religions on the same subject. This is one of Wikipedia's finest achievements. Or is going to be, I hope, once it is all finished. Right now I am by no means always happy with the quality of what I see on my occasional visits to Wikipedia; but I commend the format and appreciate the enormous effort that goes into bringing the material together in this way, and protecting it subsequently, and have high hopes for the final result.

Furthermore, to be practical, many a qualified contributor will not have the time to contribute to two sources on the same subjects and then to watch over them what someone less qualified perhaps makes of them. This is a problem already in Wikipedia, for example, when there is one article on a book, another on its author, a third on his fan club, to generalise the issue. Since Wikipedia insists that the articles need to be self-contained, so to speak, because they may be freely quoted elsewhere where the cross-referencing does not work, this means that already a contributor says much the same in more than one place. Now, to do the same in a separate WikiChristian? Will it not lower the standard? I have done some useful brushing up of some material where I know what I am saying and then had a tough time repairing subsequent edits by others whose do-gooding was not matched by an equal amount of specialist knowledge. I most certainly would not want to go through the same process in two encyclopedias. Life is too short; and I do have a life, and very much so. In fact, having burnt much midnight oil and used up vast quantities of elbow grease contributing sound edits and then endlessly defending them, especially against editors with a different agenda, this modus operandi finally caused me to give up the idea of contributing articles or even just major edits to Wikipedia. Occasionally, over a sandwich or cup of coffee, I still pay a brief visit to Wikipedia and either am appalled by the result of some big-headed ignorance or bias that I find, or delighted at efforts attributable to brave soldiering on; but I no longer think it feasible for me to try to help to pull the cart out of the mud, if that's where it is at that moment of my visit. (If I am alone with this reaction, then I would like to hear the secret of where others find the necessary time.) I suggest that the present Wikipedia articles on Christian subjects show that, with suitable sub-headings, even the intended aim of WikiChristian can be incorporated. And that of Judaism, Islam, and indeed any religion that feels they have something to contribute, e.g. Hinduism on the Trinity (Trimurti). But let all Wiki efforts be inclusive rather than divisive. The great point of Wikipedia is that the contributors are asked to agree to disagree (NPOV) so that its readers can make up their own mind. Dividing the efforts means placing the intended effectiveness of Wikipedia in jeopardy. Rally round Wikipedia to achieve its founder's aim! 05:24, 9 Jan 2006 (EST)

:I think the issue of NPOV on Wikipedia is a contentious one for editors of religious based articles. Christians do have a point of view that is not shared by all. To present a subject from a Christian point of view is exactly what this wiki does, without having to cater to the ideological/semantic concerns of those who have a differing POV outside of Christianity. Wikipedia has its own set of goals and concerns that are not really related to the goals and concerns of WikiChristian. WikiChristian will host articles that would never even be considered by Wikipedia. Additionally it will categorise articles in ways that are more relevant to Christian content. I strongly doubt that the existence of WikiChristian is in anyway a threat to the Wikipedia nor will it place in jeopardy the religious based articles on Wikipedia. In terms of comparing the scale of Wikipedia to the scale of WikiChristian, we are talking about comparing a mountain to a mole hill. Wikipedia is a huge and complex endeavour, with thousands of editors. WikiChristian by comparison is a minnow amongst wikis. There really is no comparison to be made. --[[User:Mustaphile|Mustaphile]] 08:01, 16 Jan 2006 (EST)

== Question on wikipedia ==
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Talk:WikiChristian

==Collaborative Project (First Samuel)==
I've kick started a collaborative project with a fairly simple and easily attainable goal. The completion of First Samuel in the [[Matthew Henry Commentary on the Whole Bible]] article. Please see the [[Wikichristian:Community Portal|Community Portal]] Collaborative Projects notice for further information. --[[User:Mustaphile|Mustaphile]] 14:11, 20 April 2006 (EDT)

==Welcome Stranger==
Someone may be impersonating [[User:Mustaphile]]. Totally uncharacteristic. [[User:Athrash|Athrash]] | [[User_talk:Athrash|{Talk)]] 00:04, 11 May 2006 (PDT)
:Yeah, they signed up with my nickname, but substituted a capital 'i' for the lowercase 'l' in my nickname. The way the fonts look on the screen its barely noticeable. :) --[[User:Mustaphile|Mustaphile]] 02:42, 12 May 2006 (PDT)

==Wikichristian Editing Permissions==
I see that we are facing significant amount of spam in the wiki. One of dealing with is to restrict unlogged user's ability to edit pages. While it does restrict unregistered users to edit pages, it does prevent spam bots and other not so serious spammers. Please leave your comments about this idea on this page.

--[[User:69.136.74.78|69.136.74.78]] 16:48, 12 May 2006 (PDT)
:I think it would be a worthwile move to limit editing to registered users only. --[[User:Mustaphile|Mustaphile]] 00:41, 13 May 2006 (PDT)

I went ahead and made the required change so that only logged in users can edit pages. We will see how this works for awhile. If we decide latter to change this setting, we can always do so. Please leave your comments here.

--[[User:Prab|Prab]] 01:42, 13 May 2006 (PDT)

== moving should only be for sysops ==

I would highly suggest that moving pages be restricted to sysops and higher only. We've been getting a lot of mass-moving-vandalism lately, and it isn't important enough for regular users to have that ability with what has been happening. my two cents --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 22:17, 19 May 2006 (PDT)
:I think its a good point. I didn't know it was possible myself. The current activity in terms of editing is not of such a high quantity that sysops couldn't keep up with move requests. We could make a special move request page and handle those ourselves. If at some stage in the future the volume of moves requested grows, perhaps we could look at renabling users to move pages. --[[User:Mustaphile|Mustaphile]] 22:54, 19 May 2006 (PDT)

::to whoever has access to the server, you would need to add this to the LocalSettings.php file in order to turn off moving for regular users... <pre>$wgGroupPermissions['user']['move'] = false;</pre>--[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 23:01, 19 May 2006 (PDT)
::Thanks for that, Tom. Perhaps you could give Prab a heads up on his talk page concerning this message. --[[User:Mustaphile|Mustaphile]] 23:03, 19 May 2006 (PDT)

== Images ==

Hi Prab,

I've noticed that there seems to be problems with pictures. Thumbnails and resizing images do not seem to work. Is ImageMagick installed? Is there something else that needs to be done? --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 18:29, 26 July 2006 (PDT)

== Side-bar ==

Although the side-bar at the left with all the links can be useful, I think it is too large and cumbersome, and makes the "Search" function difficult to reach. I suggest that we minimise the links on the left hand side. Thoughts? --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 09:08, 28 July 2006 (PDT)

:I say we should just take it back to the default, and then decide what should be there. If no one disagrees, I'll make the change at 1:30pm eastern time. --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 09:41, 28 July 2006 (PDT)

:: Excellent. That would be great. --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 09:47, 28 July 2006 (PDT)

:: PS - By the way, if you know how to do that, then maybe you know how to get it so we can upload images and resize them and use thumbnails - none of these features seem to be working. --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 09:47, 28 July 2006 (PDT)

:::That would require Prab, but anyone that is a sysop can edit the sidebar by going to [[MediaWiki:Sidebar]] --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 09:49, 28 July 2006 (PDT)

::::Much better. --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 10:06, 28 July 2006 (PDT)

== Staying up to date with MediaWiki ==

If WikiChristian is going to survive in the fast paced world today, it really needs to stay up to date with the latest Wiki technology. Currently it is two MediaWiki version branches behind the latest stable version. I also realize that the server does not have the latest versions of MySQL and PHP which are required by the latest MediaWiki, which may be the reason WikiChristian has not been upgraded yet, but I think we should make this a priority! --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 12:38, 28 July 2006 (PDT)

== Fixing bugs ==

It has been mentioned previously (scroll up to the comment about [[{{NAMESPACE}}:{{PAGENAME}}#Images|images]]), but we should really try to nail down the bugs with the server. There's nothing worse than a website that anyone can edit, but no one can edit it because of internal bugs. I could probably fix them in 30 minutes if I had access to the server, but I don't. I'll start a to-do list of bugs that need fixing, feel free to add to it. --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 12:46, 28 July 2006 (PDT)
* Images (we should be able to upload and resize without errors)
* Spam (really, this could be a thing of the past) There's captchas, registration blacklists, user creation logs, and keyword blacklists avilable that could be implemented to pretty much stop all spam
*:''Yes, there are many things people propose that are intended to reduce spam -- but too many of them are more hassle than they are worth. There's a long discussion at http://c2.com/cgi/wiki?WikiSpamSolutions '' {{unsigned|DavidCary}}
*::Possibly many are more hassle, but they can also be configured to be the same protection, but less of a hassle. For example, on Wikible, you have to enter a captcha (code in a image), if you are an anonymous user, and you add a link to an external website. Registered users don't have to deal with this, and it's only when they add a link. They can easily add other content without being bothered by it. That's one example where it can be highly effective, not too obtrusive, and give somewhat of an incentive to register. --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 08:47, 29 July 2006 (PDT)
* Search results reveal a blank page! --[[User:RockOfVictory|J. J.]] 18:13, 31 July 2006 (PDT)
* I'd really like to see the index.php removed from the URL, too.[http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Eliminating_index.php_from_the_url] Prab, get in here and help us out! --[[User:RockOfVictory|J. J.]] 18:13, 31 July 2006 (PDT)

== moving text from other wiki ==

If no one objects, I plan to move text from
http://wikiindex.com/Category:Christians
to
[[Christian]],
leaving behind a link to
http://wikichristian.org/index.php/Christian
.
(See http://wikiindex.com/Category_talk:Christians ).

Is there a standard policy on moving stuff from other wiki into WikiChristian,
or from WikiChristian to some other wiki?

--[[User:DavidCary|DavidCary]] 08:00, 29 July 2006 (PDT)

:basically it's cite your source, and be sure that it is released in the public domain, there are no conflicts with any TOS, or that it is released under the GFDL :-) --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 08:40, 29 July 2006 (PDT)

::<del>Doesn't the GFDL allow copying from one GFDL to another without needed to cite? It may make sense to mention that it's from Wikipedia, etc., but not required, right?</del> EDIT: Scratch that. I just read up on the GFDL a little more; see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Reusing_Wikipedia_content#Modified_Versions this Wikipedia policy] for the licensing in layman's terms. --[[User:RockOfVictory|J. J.]] 20:03, 31 July 2006 (PDT)

== Some major changes NEED to happen ==

If this wiki is going to surive, some big organizational things need to happen. I've heard the discussion on that WikiChristian doesn't want to be a copy of Wikipedia, but that just doesn't work and is creating chaos. Here are my suggestions. Please comment within a few days whether you like them or not<del>, otherwise I will just start doing it myself.</del>
*<del>Delete everything that isn't editable (carm articles for example, because of copyright)</del>
*Either delete or source the images and media with a LINK
*Create root category page
*<del>Delete articles directly copied from other sources</del> (they should/can be merged into one wikichristian article later, but there shouldn't be multiple articles for the same topic)
*Standardize the templates. There's a working system of templates over at Wikipedia, and we should work off of theirs, rather than reinvent the wheel.
*User pages shouldn't be in the main namespace
*There should be one article, we shouldn't be having all this overview mess. Most of the articles aren't large enough to be worth an "overview"
*We need to just get rid of all the Bible dictionary/encyclopedia stuff. The way WikiChristian is doing it is just causing more work and chaos than necessary, plus it really isn't that useful. People can go to the original source to find it. Besides the fact that other Christian wikis are doing better at this.
*The main page is just disgusting and needs to be totally done away with
*All the Bible text pages like... ''Genesis 1:1 (WEB)''... <del>just need to be deleted</del>. There's a better way, and other wikis are using that better way.
--[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 09:14, 9 October 2006 (EST)

:I disagree with most of your points.
:*I don't think we should delete things that aren't editable. There is a place for them because (1) they can still be wikified and (2) if they are an opinion, it is fair that they remain unchanged - see also [[Talk:CARM]]
:*I disagree that we should use the same templates as wikipedia. Why is their wheel the right one for us?
:*It is perfectly reasonable for there to be multiple articles on a topic. I agree that there should be one neutral point of view encyclopedia article, but why can't we have opinion articles. For example, I like the article [[Church]], with its encyclopedia page [[Church (overview)]] (which I agree needs more work) and its opinion articles [[What is the Church? (G.G.)]] and [[The Church (justforcatholics.org)]] and [[Talk:Church/discussion]].
:*I think the Bible dictionary type stuff is useful, and I think it is best to keep it in its original text but wikify it. I disagree with you and do not think we should remove it.
:*There may be a better way than [[Genesis 1:1 (WEB)]], but I don't think the other wikis have found it. With this system, it will be possible to have an unlimited number of translations - you could have Genesis 1:1 (KJV) for King James, Genesis 1:1 (Vulgate) for Latin, Genesis 1:1 (Hebrew) for Hebrew and so on. Then under [[Genesis 1:1]] there could be links to all of those, as well as opinion articles and sermons and related topics specific to Genesis 1:1
:*Maybe the main page is disgusting and needs to be redone. But if it is redone in the fashion of wikipedia, wikible, or theopedia then I disagree completely - I do not think that is the best style for this sort of wiki. The main page could certainly be improved and completely changed, so please, show an alternative. But I think making it like wikipedia would be a big mistake. Firstly, I believe it needs to be easy to navigate from the main page to the main topics. Secondly, lets not have "Todays featured article" etc. because, lets face it, we don't have the resources to change articles often.

:Tom, it seems you and I have very different ideas on how to make this wiki open to growth and open to differing views of different Christians from different denominational backgrounds. There is no right way or wrong way. I happen to think your suggestions however will not make WikiChristian open to growth, but will ultimately stifle growth. --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 00:59, 10 October 2006 (EST)

More thoughts...
*'''Copyrighted material''': The only reason I say that is because it seems wikifying it really isn't that big of a benefit to be worth the time and effort of inserting it here. We should focus on stuff that really makes a difference, not linking articles. If we can't edit them, it's not that big in my opinion.
*'''Templates''': Of course everything won't be the same, and I'm not advocating that, but surely there are some administrative styled templates that can be duplicated, that are just common every-day wiki stuff. Although I think WikiChristian's idea of distancing itself with Wikipedia is good, I think it's going to an extreme that makes it harder.
*'''Commentary''': Personally I'd prefer for user-written commentary to be in the user namespace. It looks very unprofessional to come across an article that is in the main namespace, which most opinion pieces I've seen aren't very well formatted or cited. I agree we need them.
*'''Bible dictionary''': I kind of think it's pointless to have a ''Bible dictionary article'' that explains something, than have other separate articles that also explain it. Why not just one? Combine the dictionary and the article together.
*'''Verse pages''': I would say that a few other wikis have found a better way. At Wikible we're working on a Verse Management System based on ideas gained from BibleWiki. Also there's a ReformedWord wiki that is also using similar techniques. Some of these things WikiChristian isn't even capable of technically (yet). Read more about it on Wikible http://wikible.org/en/Wikible:Scripture.
*'''Main Page''': I agree with you on the main page. A balance between functionality and beauty is a struggle. Yes, it should be unique and reflect WikiChristian's goals, but it shouldn't look bad. No we can't do dailys, but we can do monthly, that's not really that hard. And I'm not advocating that we have featured anything, just that it looks better ;-).
Yes, I do have very different ideas, which are probably more a branch off of the shoulders of other wikis, but I think we can definitely keep the goals of WikiChristian by learning from what others have done. Will my ideas stifle growth? Maybe, but that depends on whether you think it's growing now with its current methods. I guess if I were to summarize my thoughts and personality, I'm more of a ''throw away what I don't use'' kinda guy, which can have its benefits and drawbacks. I say that alienating yourself too much form other wikis will and has hurt, but also there needs to be a way to define the differences. --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 14:45, 10 October 2006 (EST)
:I'm having similar discussions with other ChristianWikis about this as well. The problem that exists is that there are people that like to copy in a lot of content and then organize later, but then there are people that would rather organize it as it is being inserted. In this case with WikiChristian, we simply have a LOT of text to deal with ([[Special:Statistics|{{NUMBEROFARTICLES}}]] articles in fact), some of which may have not have any sources, etc, and it has gotten kind of crazy. If it was organized along the way, there wouldn't be this problem. --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 14:55, 10 October 2006 (EST)

::Okay. I'm happy to agree to disagree. Let's wait and see what the few other users think. --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 17:07, 10 October 2006 (EST)

===Unique Identity===
I think it is important to have a unique identity at the same time as having a good looking website. I agree that the mainpage needs to be totally revamped. It just does not represent what all wikichristian has inside and is un-inspiring! We need to have some action on the main page that keeps changing everyday like the wikipedia's featured articles. We can do project of the week, featured passage, featured article etc. as part of the main page.

I disagree that we need to delete what ever content we have including the bible verses. We spent so much time on it and I think they do help in terms of users finding the information via search engines better.

As far as the overview is concerned, I agree it kind of is a bit too many articles and there is no main article that is large enough. However, changing all the existing pages may be a huge task and I am not sure if we want to spend that much time on that. We may, however, want to change the format to something better - like wikipedia, where there is a single article with inline links and not so much at the bottom.

Whatever we decide, let us make sure we do not let this go anywhere near a wiki war! Let us agree to disagree on some topics while agreeing to work together on others. --[[User:Prab|Prab]] 14:32, 17 October 2006 (EST)

:agreed --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 20:32, 18 October 2006 (EST)

===additional thoughts===
Okay, so deleting the stuff was a little too much as I now see ;-). Although I think some content here serves very little to helping WikiChristian, it would be an enormous task. Also, there are probably better things that can be done rather than just deletion. Anyways, in the very least, I think we should come up with a list of things ([[Wikichristian:To do list]]) that need to be done in order to get this site back to where it should be. We will need to do some serious consensus-styled planning in order to make a system that is efficient and does not create duplicate unnecessary articles. I will be in and out over the next few weeks writing some ideas and analyzing the wiki some more. I apologize if I offended anyone in the process of making my comments. I know a lot of work has been put into this project, but that doesn't mean it has been organized in the best way possible. I also would have to admit that for the other wikis that I participate in. Not all my or others ideas are correct either, and sometimes the best thing for me to do is just go along with what has been established ;-).

As it says in Proverbs 23:10 "''Do not move the ancient boundary...''" --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 21:03, 18 October 2006 (EST)

Thanks Tom. You've made some excellent points. I look forward to reading more of your ideas and appreciate all the hard work you have put into the various Christian wikis, this one included. I think ultimately, we need to keep the content coming. Organization and ideas only go so far. So long as we all keep adding content and the site grows in actual real content, then the site will become more useful. I agree with you that the statistics are misleading. Perhaps we should remove them from the front page. A to do list is very important - in fact there is one already - [[Wikichristian:To-do list]]. Also, there is the [[Wikichristian:Priority Pages]] section which directs people to some of the more important pages that need work done. Please, add some pages into this section that feel need work. --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 22:36, 21 October 2006 (EST)

== statistics are misleading ==

What can we do about the statistics? Honestly I think they are misleading to the amount of actual content that is on WikiChristian. For example, there are thousands of articles, that all they have on them is a verse. Not that it is necessarily a bad thing, but it makes it look like all those numbers are actual content... --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 14:30, 21 October 2006 (EST)

: Agreed. We can remove the statistics. --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 22:10, 21 October 2006 (EST)

==Front page==

Well, recently Tom and Prab have mentioned that they would like a new front page. Let's work together and design a new one then. I'll put my two cents worth in:

* '''Box for links''' - I like to see a box on the side which links to the most important pages: [[Christianity]] | [[God]] | [[Jesus Christ]] | [[Essence of Christianity]] | [[Bible]] | [[Christian literature, art, music and media]] | [[Church]] | [[Church history]] | [[Denominations]] | [[Famous Christians]] | [[Christian doctrine and debates]] | [[Grace]] | [[Love]] | [[Current issues]] | [[News]] | [[Cults and other religions]] | [[Places]] | [[Mission]] | [[World-wide church directory]]
* Relevant pictures - I would like to see a few pictures
* Statement about Christianity - I would like to see a brief statement about Christianity
* Minimize house-keeping content - I think we should minimize WikiChristian house-keeping related links and information, i.e. not have paragraphs of information about technical detail etc;

I'd like to hear other people's ideas

Perhaps we could create a new page at [[Main Page: Future]]

--[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 22:27, 21 October 2006 (EST)

----

== How to edit page subjects? ==

I'm back for the first time in a while and have just added pages for a few Christian rock/metal bands, since music is one of my passions, but I didn't think to uppercase the subject header when I first typed it in the search box, and now the page header for [http://www.wikichristian.org/Barren_cross Barren Cross] has a lowercase "c" that I can't figure out how to change. I didn't see what looked like any options on the template for changing subject headers. --[[User:Jesusfreakdotcom|Jesusfreakdotcom]] 12:57, 21 November 2006 (EST)

----

== Graphics/banners to link to this site? ==
I'd like to add a Wikichristian link on my website, but think a graphic would probably be more noticeable than just a text link. I tried copying the Wikichristian image on the upper-left corner of the page templates, but that doesn't seem to work. Is there a place where I can grab a graphic, or a URL for a graphic that I can link to?--[[User:Jesusfreakdotcom|Jesusfreakdotcom]] 01:44, 22 November 2006 (EST)

:You might have to be creative ;-) --[[User:Ymmotrojam|Tom]] 07:53, 22 November 2006 (EST)

----
== Recent entries appear severely truncated ==
I just noticed that several of the entries about Christian bands that I've posted the past couple of days have been cut to little more than a bare-bones description and no details. Is this an automated truncation? Who or what is Muser? It appears that Muser was the last person or program to edit my files.
--[[User:Jesusfreakdotcom|Jesusfreakdotcom]] 13:04, 22 November 2006 (EST)

Sorry for the swift action. I truncated them because they looked like they were directly cut and paste from wikipedia, with all the links, categories and non-existant pictures left in, without any editing or changes. Because we're not an exact replica of wikipedia, I truncated them so they could have a more independent life of their own. --[[User:Muser|Muser]] 15:46, 22 November 2006 (EST)

== Problem: Disappearing recent changes ==

I notice that all the changes made from November 23 to November 25, of which there were quite a few that I made, and possibly changes that others made, have not appeared in the "Recent changes" section. Why would this be? --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 05:07, 27 November 2006 (EST)

: Well, at least this change appeared in "Recent changes". So perhaps, whatever the problem was has been fixed. --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 05:09, 27 November 2006 (EST)

==New Post==

Bible references: How should these be cited? Wikipedia has templates for bibleref and bibleverse. What exists here? Can multiple translations (KJV, NKJV, NIV, NASB, etc.) be used? -- [[User:Ssot|Ssot]]

:I don't know if we have a reference system in place. Does anyone know if we do? -- [[User:P.B. Pilhet|P.B. Pilhet]] / [[User talk:P.B. Pilhet|Talk]] 14:34, 27 November 2006 (EST)

:Just put the passage in, for example [[John 3:16]], [[Mark 2]] or [[Genesis]]. That will hopefully link to the correct passage. Most of the Bible is uploaded so far (WEB version; and there is room for any other version to also be uploaded or added later). --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 03:00, 29 November 2006 (EST)

==Featured Content==

The current featured content ([[Old Testament (overview)]] has been up now for more than a week. Shouldn't we change it? -- [[User:P.B. Pilhet|P.B. Pilhet]] / [[User talk:P.B. Pilhet|Talk]] 20:45, 27 November 2006 (EST)

== Acceptable Content ==

Has anybody noticed the contributions that [[User:Cfunk|Cfunk]] has made? His latest have been to the [[RciaSmmSchedule]]. Are these pages acceptable content on WikiChristian, or not? -- [[User:P.B. Pilhet|P.B. Pilhet]] / [[User talk:P.B. Pilhet|Talk]] 17:13, 28 November 2006 (EST)

: Yes, I've noticed. I think that his content is fine. If he is using WikiChristian to put up a roster and timetable for his particular church then that's good. It would be nice if he would create a page for his church and a link to the roster, but ultimately, what he's putting up is fine I think. --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 03:07, 29 November 2006 (EST)

== Move Vandalism ==

We just recently got hit with ''two'' major "move" vandalism incidents. I had a hard time cleaning up the second (I actually double reverted a few times). We should really consider restricting the move ability to sysops only. I think the time we spend reverting these vandals isn't worth leaving the feature open to the public. Just a suggestion. -- [[User:P.B. Pilhet|P.B. Pilhet]] / [[User talk:P.B. Pilhet|Talk]] 20:29, 28 November 2006 (EST)

P.S. -- I took the liberty to "move protect" every administrator's user page, since they've been the main target for vandals. -- 20:36, 28 November 2006 (EST)

: Thanks for your work Justin. I agree with you that we should restrict moving to administrators. I don't know how to do that though. If you do, go ahead and do so, otherwise we'll ask Tom or Prab. --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 03:04, 29 November 2006 (EST)

== Problems with images ==

I seem to be unable to upload images. This has been happening for a while now. I get an error message saying

: Could not copy file "/tmp/phpu9H8lS" to "/var/www/vhosts/wikichristian.org/httpdocs/images/temp/0/0d/20061202023409!Christmas_tree.jpg".

Does anyone know how to fix it? --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 21:36, 1 December 2006 (EST)

OUTSTANDING.
the work on teshuqa from lessons 16-18, is simply outstanding.
thank you.
outstanding.

== Recent changes appear to have been greatly shortened ==

I was just browsing the Recent Changes link and noticed that several of the profile pages I'd created for various Christian musicians have been seriously trimmed down by Muser. Is this an automated process, or is it just temporary? Have there been syntax or other errors with the pages I've been creating that are causing this to happen?

Jesus freak

2007-03-04T21:55:01Z

Jesusfreakdotcom: /* Bibliography */

Jesus freak

2007-03-04T21:54:27Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

The term '''Jesus freak''' was originally a [[pejorative]] term applied to those involved in the [[Jesus movement]] of the late [[1960s]] and early [[1970s]]. The term came into existence within the context of the [[freak scene]] of that era. At first, the term was used only in reference to members of the movement, but it has since found wide usage outside of that scene. It is still sometimes used as a pejorative epithet against Christians in general. However, some [[Christianity|Christians]] now consider it a [[reclaiming|reclaimed]] word, as some Christians, especially Christian youth, occasionally use it as a positive term to let others know that they are not ashamed of their beliefs.

Perhaps its most well-known usage was in the lyrics of [[Elton John]]'s song "[[Tiny Dancer]]" ("Jesus freaks, out in the street, handing tickets out to God," referring to [[Tract (literature)|gospel tracts]]), but it has also appeared in [[Felt (band)|Felt]]'s [[1986 in music|1986]] single "Ballad of the Band." The term has recently been used frequently by [[Ted Turner]] and [[Howard Stern]], referring however to [[fundamentalist]]s. "Jesus Freak" also appeared as the title of the [[Jesus Freak (album)|1995 album]] by [[dc Talk]], and that album helped turn the term into more of a compliment.

==Bibliography==
* Di Sabatino, David. ''The Jesus People Movement: An Annotated Bibliography and General Resource'' (Westport, CT: Greenwood Press, 1999). [http://www.jesuspeoplemovement.com]
* {{cite book|title=The First Christians:the Jesus Movement|last=White|first=L. Michael|publisher= [http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/shows/religion/first/themovement.html]}}
* {{cite book|title=Hippies of the religious Right: The counterculture and American evangelicalism in the 1960s and 1970s|last=Shires|first=Preston David, Ph.D.|publisher=University of Nebraska, Lincoln|year=2002}}
* {{cite book|title=Jesus People: a religious movement in a mid-western city|last=Bookman|first=Sally Dobson Ph.D.|publisher=University of California, Berkeley|year=1974}}
* {{cite book|title=A theological and historical assessment of the Jesus people phenomenon|last=Wagner|first=Frederick Norman, Ph.D.|publisher=Fuller Theological Seminary|year=1971}}
* {{cite book|title=Early American Pentecostalism and the issues of race, gender, war, and poverty: A history of the belief system and social witness of early twentieth century Pentacostalism and its nineteenth century holiness roots|last=Smalridge|first=Scott, M.A.|publisher=McGill University|year=1999|}}

==External links==
* [http://www.jesusfreak.com JesusFreak.com (site based in the United States)]
* [http://www.jesusfreaks.com JesusFreaks.com (site based in Germany)]

[[Category:Jesus Movement]]
[[Category:Pejorative terms for people]]

[[de:Jesus Freaks]]

Jesus freak

2007-03-04T21:51:56Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

{{otheruses|Jesus Freak (disambiguation)}}

The term '''Jesus freak''' was originally a [[pejorative]] term applied to those involved in the [[Jesus movement]] of the late [[1960s]] and early [[1970s]]. The term came into existence within the context of the [[freak scene]] of that era. At first, the term was used only in reference to members of the movement, but it has since found wide usage outside of that scene. It is still sometimes used as a pejorative epithet against Christians in general. However, some [[Christianity|Christians]] now consider it a [[reclaiming|reclaimed]] word, as some Christians, especially Christian youth, occasionally use it as a positive term to let others know that they are not ashamed of their beliefs.

Perhaps its most well-known usage was in the lyrics of [[Elton John]]'s song "[[Tiny Dancer]]" ("Jesus freaks, out in the street, handing tickets out to God," referring to [[Tract (literature)|gospel tracts]]), but it has also appeared in [[Felt (band)|Felt]]'s [[1986 in music|1986]] single "Ballad of the Band." The term has recently been used frequently by [[Ted Turner]] and [[Howard Stern]], referring however to [[fundamentalist]]s. "Jesus Freak" also appeared as the title of the [[Jesus Freak (album)|1995 album]] by [[dc Talk]], and that album helped turn the term into more of a compliment.

==Bibliography==
* Di Sabatino, David. ''The Jesus People Movement: An Annotated Bibliography and General Resource'' (Westport, CT: Greenwood Press, 1999). [http://www.jesuspeoplemovement.com]
* {{cite book|title=The First Christians:the Jesus Movement|last=White|first=L. Michael|publisher= [http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/shows/religion/first/themovement.html]}}
* {{cite book|title=Hippies of the religious Right: The counterculture and American evangelicalism in the 1960s and 1970s|last=Shires|first=Preston David, Ph.D.|publisher=University of Nebraska, Lincoln|year=2002}}
* {{cite book|title=Jesus People: a religious movement in a mid-western city|last=Bookman|first=Sally Dobson Ph.D.|publisher=University of California, Berkeley|year=1974}}
* {{cite book|title=A theological and historical assessment of the Jesus people phenomenon|last=Wagner|first=Frederick Norman, Ph.D.|publisher=Fuller Theological Seminary|year=1971}}
* {{cite book|title=Early American Pentecostalism and the issues of race, gender, war, and poverty: A history of the belief system and social witness of early twentieth century Pentacostalism and its nineteenth century holiness roots|last=Smalridge|first=Scott, M.A.|publisher=McGill University|year=1999|}}

==External links==
* [http://www.jesusfreak.com JesusFreak.com (site based in the United States)]
* [http://www.jesusfreaks.com JesusFreaks.com (site based in Germany)]

[[Category:Jesus Movement]]
[[Category:Pejorative terms for people]]

[[de:Jesus Freaks]]

User talk:Jesusfreakdotcom

2007-03-04T17:21:56Z

Jesusfreakdotcom: /* Rex Carroll */

Hello, Jesusfreakdotcom!! I want to extend a welcome to you from all the editors here at WikiChristian. As we have very few active contributors, we can use all the help we can get, so all of your work is very, very much appreciated (it still would be even if we had thousands of users). If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave me a note on my talk page. Also, please consider creating your userpage, to let everyone here know a little about you. Happy editing! -- [[User:P.B. Pilhet|P.B. Pilhet]] / [[User talk:P.B. Pilhet|Talk]] 21:45, 25 October 2006 (EST)

:Hi. Thanks for contributing. Hope you find WikiChristian useful. We'd love you to add more content when you feel called to. What's your name by the way? --[[User:Graham grove|Graham grove]] 06:34, 26 October 2006 (EST)

::Hey, sorry for being a little slow on the uptake. :-) My name is Chad Steenerson. I'll go ahead and add that to my profile before I forget.--[[User:Jesusfreakdotcom|Jesusfreakdotcom]] 07:38 26 October 2006 (EDT)

==Reply: Hosting suggestion==

Thanks for the suggestion. You'll have to talk to [[User:Prab|Prab]] about this, as he's the leader here. Since this is a [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/MediaWiki wiki based site], I'm not sure if GoDaddy would work or not.

Thanks for your newest contributions! -- [[User:P.B. Pilhet|P.B. Pilhet]] / [[User talk:P.B. Pilhet|Talk]] 11:23, 26 October 2006 (EST)

==Your problem==

Hey Chad! Just wanted to let you know that Tom (Ymmotrojam) moved your page "Barren cross" to "[[Barren Cross]]," thus changing the name and fixing the capital "c" problem. God bless! -- [[User:P.B. Pilhet|P.B. Pilhet]] / [[User talk:P.B. Pilhet|Talk]] 22:42, 21 November 2006 (EST)

== Rex Carroll ==

Hey, Chad. I've fixed the mispelling of [[Rex Carroll]] for you; it's a pain that we had to restrict moving to admins only, otherwise these simple mistakes could be easier to correct. But we had way too much "move vandalism" for there to be any point in leaving the move feature open to the general public. By the way, I think you called me Prab by mistake on my talk page :-) God bless, [[User:P.B. Pilhet|P.B. Pilhet]] / [[User talk:P.B. Pilhet|Talk]] 12:14, 4 March 2007 (EST)

:Hey man, sorry for the identity crisis. :-) Glad things are in good hands here, though. --[[User:Jesusfreakdotcom|Jesusfreakdotcom]] 14:20 4 March 2007 (EST)

Keith Green

2007-03-04T17:18:02Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

{{Infobox musical artist 
| Name = Keith Green
| Img = Keith Green Album Cover.jpg
| Img_capt =
| Img_size = 
| Landscape =
| Background = solo_singer
| Birth_name =
| Alias =
| Born = [[October 21]], [[1953]]
| Died = [[July 28]], [[1982]] (age {{Age|1953|10|21|1982|07|28}})
| Origin = [[Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn|Sheepshead Bay]], [[New York]], [[USA]]
| Instrument = [[Piano]]
| Genre = [[Gospel]], [[CCM]]
| Occupation = [[singer]], [[songwriter]], and [[pianist]]
| Years_active =
| Label = Independent [[Sparrow Records]][[Decca Records]]
| Associated_acts =
| URL =
| Current_members =
| Past_members =
| Notable_instruments =
}}

'''Keith Gordon Green''' ([[October 21]], 1953 – [[July 28]], 1982) was an [[United States|American]] [[gospel music|gospel]] [[singer]], [[songwriter]], and [[pianist]] originally from [[Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn|Sheepshead Bay]], [[New York]]. Green is best known for his strong devotion to [[Christianity]] and his unwavering efforts to stir others to the same. Notable songs written by Green and/or his wife, Melody Green, include "Your Love Broke Through", "Make My Life A Prayer to You", "Asleep In The Light", and "The Prodigal Son Suite", as well as the popular modern [[hymn]]s "O Lord, You're Beautiful" and "There Is A Redeemer".
==Early life==
Green took to music at a young age, beginning with the [[ukulele]] at age 3, the guitar at 5, and the piano at 7.<ref name=LAT-SF1>Los Angeles Times, February 18, 1965, pg. SF1</ref> His talents were noted by a major newspaper by the time he was only eight years old. Following a performance of [[Arthur Laurents]]' ''[[The Time of the Cuckoo]]'', a local review by the ''[[Los Angeles Times]]'' wrote that "roguish-looking, eight-year-old Keith Green gave a winning [character] portrayal"<ref name=NC>Green, M. & Hazard, D. (2000) ''No Compromise: The Life Story of Keith Green'', Chapter 2</ref> as "the little Italian street urchin, Mauro";<ref name="LAT-G3">Los Angeles Times, September 6, 1962, pg. G3</ref> another review commented that he "stole the show". The show was Keith's first appearance in live theater, which was held in Chatsworth, California, in September 1962.<ref name=LAT-G3/> According to the ''LA Times'', Keith had already "done a number of television commercials and...made a TV pilot."<ref name=LAT-G3/>

At ten years old, Green went on to play "Kurt von Trapp" in a major production of ''[[The Sound of Music]]'' at the Valley Music Theater in [[Woodland Hills, California]], part of the [[San Fernando Valley]].<ref name=LAT-SF1-n-NC>Los Angeles Times, February 18, 1965, pg. SF1; and ''No Compromise'', Chapter 2</ref>
[[Image:keith-green-a go go getter.jpg|thumb|right|Keith Green's first disc release. The other side has the song ''The Way I Used To Be''.]]
At age eleven in February 1965, with 40 original songs already under his belt, Green signed a 5-year contract with [[Decca Records]] (with his father, Harvey Green (1924-1999), as business manager). The first song released on disc was "The Way I Used to Be" in May 1965 (produced by [[Gary Usher]]),<ref>[http://www.garyusher.com/disc.html GaryUsher.com], Decca 31799</ref> which he had earlier composed and published before signing on with Decca. Upon publication of this song, Green became the youngest person ever to sign with the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers ([[ASCAP]]).<ref name=LAT-SF1-n-NC/>

Decca Records planned to make Green a [[teen idol|teen-idol]], regularly getting the young pre-teenager featured in fanzines like ''Teen Scene'' and on popular television shows like ''[[The Jack Benny Program|The Jack Benny Show]]'' and [[Steve Allen (comedian)|Steve Allen]]'s show. [[Time (magazine)|''Time'']] magazine called Green "a prepubescent dreamboat".<ref>''Time'', March 11, 1966, issue. Keith Green was 12 years old then.</ref> His dreams of stardom were shattered, however, when [[Donny Osmond]] stole his short-lived spotlight and Green was quickly forgotten.

By his mid-teens, Green became heavily involved in drug use, eastern religion, astrology, and mysticism. After experiencing a horrifying "bad trip", he abandoned drug use and also became bitter towards philosophy and theology in general. In the midst of his skepticism, as Green described it, God's love "broke through" his "calloused heart". He began on a new path "with Christ as his guru", but had many "spiritual struggles" and hardships along the way. He married Melody Steiner on Christmas day 1973, and the two became involved in the [[Association of Vineyard Churches|Vineyard Christian Fellowship]] in Southern California, where they were introduced to [[Bob Dylan]].

==Ministry==
In 1975, the Greens began an outreach program in the suburbs of [[San Fernando Valley]], California, by purchasing a home next door to theirs and renting an additional five in the same community to provide housing and care for prostitutes, drug addicts, and homeless people. This outreach ministry was dubbed Last Days Ministries (LDM) 2 years later.<ref name=LDM>[http://www.lastdaysministries.org/about/about.html LDM history]</ref>

===Recording===

Green was signed to [[Contemporary Christian music]] label [[Sparrow Records]] in 1976 and worked on the album ''Firewind'' (1976) with [[2nd Chapter of Acts]], [[Terry Talbot]], [[John Talbot]], and [[Barry McGuire]]. His first solo project, ''[[For Him Who Has Ears to Hear]]'', was released in 1977. ''[[No Compromise]]'' followed in 1978.

In 1979, Green surprised many in the music industry by refusing to charge money for concerts or albums. He negotiated a release from his contract with Sparrow. The Greens then mortgaged their home to privately finance the album ''[[So You Wanna Go Back To Egypt]]'' (with a guest appearance by [[Bob Dylan]]), which was then offered through mail-order and at concerts for a price determined by the purchaser. As of May 1982, Green had shipped out more than 200,000 units of his album – 61,000 for free. Subsequent albums included ''[[The Keith Green Collection]]'' (1981) and ''[[Songs For The Shepherd]]'' (1982).

===Last Days Ministries===

In 1978, Last Days Ministries began publishing the ''Last Days Newsletter''. Originally printed on a few pages of loose paper, it grew in content to eventually become self-described as a "small, colorful magazine", renamed in mid-1985 as ''Last Days Magazine''.<ref name=LDMer1>Based on information supplied by long-time LDM associate.</ref> The magazine featured articles by Keith and Melody as well as contemporary authors such as [[David Wilkerson]], [[Leonard Ravenhill]], and [[Winkie Pratney]], all of whom lived in the area, as well as reprinted works written by earlier Christian workers such as [[Charles Finney]], [[John Wesley]], and [[William Booth]] and his wife [[Catherine Booth|Catherine]]. Due to popularity of the magazine, most of the articles were reprinted as tracts. At the peak of its popularity, the Last Days Magazine was sent out to over 300,000 people worldwide.

In 1979, the ministry relocated from the San Fernando Valley in California to a 40-acre plot of land in [[Garden Valley, Texas]],<ref name=LDMer1/> a crossroads community about 9 miles west of [[Lindale, TX|Lindale]], Texas. Within a few years, 100 more acres were added for a total of 140 acres.<ref name=LDMer1/>
In Texan parlance, a plot of land the size of large acreages is referred to as a "ranch", hence the name Last Days Ministries Ranch.<ref name=LDMer1/> In this article, the word "property" is used. Melody Green described in her biography of Keith that the ministry had a close association with [[YWAM]].

==Plane crash==
[[Image:Greens-grave.jpg|thumb|right|Gravesite at Garden Valley Cemetery]]
Green died on [[July 28]] [[1982]], when a small airplane leased by Last Days Ministries crashed after taking off from a private airport in Texas referred to in the [[National Transportation Safety Board|NTSB]] crash report as Garden Valley Airport. Green had planned to give visiting friends an aerial view of the Last Days Ministries property. Two of Green's children, three year old Josiah, and two year old Bethany, were on board the plane, as was pilot Don Burmeister, and friends John and Dede Smalley and all six of their children. All passengers were killed in the crash. Crash investigators determined that the aircraft was nearly 450 lbs. (202 kg) overweight with 12 passengers and only 7 seats.

Keith, Josiah, and Bethany Green are interred at Garden Valley Cemetery behind the Garden Valley Baptist Church,<ref name=GVBC>[http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/tx/smith/tsphotos/cemsd-g.html Smith County Archives] gives directions to Garden Valley Cemetery.</ref> less than a half-mile from Last Days Ministries property.<ref name=mapquest>[http://www.mapquest.com/directions/main.adp?do=nw&go=1&r=&aoh=&aot=&aof=&1a=&1c=&1s=&1z=&1y=US&1l=&1g=&1pl=&1v=COUNTRY&1ffi=&1n=&1qn=garden%20valley%20baptist%20church&2a=22392%20FM%2016%20W&2c=Lindale&2s=TX&2z=75771&2y=US&2l=JJGIA76Px8g%3d&2g=vqvWqukAkwM%3d&2pn=Teen%20Mania&2pl=903%2d324%2d8000&2v=ADDRESS&2ffi=1&2n=&2qn=Teen%20Mania&2qc=&q=teen%20mania%20ministries&1pn=garden%20valley%20baptist%20church&1sb=Garden%20Valley%20Baptist%20Church%7c17816%20County%20Road%20442%7cLindale%7cTX%7c75771%7c325301%7c%2d955386%7c903%2d882%2d7671%7cUS&1qc=%28All%29%20Places%20Of%20Worship Mapquest.com] gives distance between Teen Mania (where LDM used to be) and Baptist Church. Includes map graphics.</ref> He was survived by his wife and two daughters, the youngest of whom was born after Green's death.

The Smalley family are interred in a cemetery in Midland, Texas.<ref name=LATb3>Los Angeles Times, July 30, 1982, pg. B3</ref>

The airplane involved was a [[Cessna 414]], similar to that [http://www.airliners.net/open.file/0504373/L/ shown here.] 

==Legacy==
Two full albums of original Green songs were released posthumously: ''[[The Prodigal Son (album)|The Prodigal Son]]'' (1983) and ''[[Jesus Commands Us to Go!]]'' (1984), continuing Green's policy of charging whatever the recipient was willing to pay. Another release, ''[[I Only Want to See You There]]'' (1983) contained mostly previously released material. A complete volume of his work, ''[[The Ministry Years]]'', was released in 1987 and 1988, including a few more previously unreleased songs.

The final unreleased Christian song known to have been recorded by Keith was "Born Again", which was finally released 17 years later in 1999 on the ''First Love'' compilation video and CD, which features a two-song tribute to Keith by other artists. Keith was working on other songs at the time of his death. Melody has not made them available to the public. She has released excerpts of his writings as books: ''Cry In The Wilderness'' (Sparrow, 1993), ''If You Love the Lord'' (Harvest House, 2000), and ''Make My Life a Prayer'' (Harvest House, 2001).

===Tribute Recordings===

In 1992, several artists joined together to re-record many of Green's best-known songs for a tribute album called ''No Compromise: Remembering the Music of Keith Green'' under the Sparrow Records label. Artists contributing to that record included [[Charlie Peacock]], [[PFR]], [[Susan Ashton]], [[Margaret Becker]], [[Michael Card]], [[Glad (band)|GLAD]], [[Rich Mullins]], [[Steven Curtis Chapman]] and [[Russ Taff]].

In 2001, [[BEC Records]] released a second, more modern, tribute record ''Start Right Here: Remembering the Life of Keith Green''. That tribute was produced by [[Derri Daugherty]] and included performances by [[MxPx]], [[Joy Electric]] and others.

In 2002, upon the twentieth anniversary of Keith's death, Sparrow Records released another tribute album. ''Your Love Broke Through: The Worship Songs of Keith Green'' contains re-recordings by [[Rebecca St. James]], [[Michelle Tumes]], [[Chris Tomlin]], [[Twila Paris]], [[Darlene Zschech]], [[Jason Upton]], [[Martin Smith (songwriter)|Martin Smith]], Charlie Hall, [[Joanne Hogg]], [[Matt Redman]], [[Paul Oakley]], and [[Sarah Sadler]]. This album includes "There Is One" performed by [[Michael W. Smith]], which was an unfinished work completed by [[Michael W. Smith]] and [[Martin Smith (songwriter)|Martin Smith]].

===Last Days Ministries===

[[Image:TM-GreenHall.jpg|thumb|right|Green Hall building, originally part of LDM property, named after Keith Green when Teen Mania bought the property]]
The LDM property was sold in 1996 and is now occupied by [[Teen Mania Ministries]].<ref name=LDMer1/> Teen Mania has dedicated one of its dormitories, Green Hall, in memory of Keith. Melody Green continues to operate Last Days Ministries from [[Oceanside, California]], and is a well-known speaker and author. With David Hazard she authored a biography of Keith, ''No Compromise: The Life Story of Keith Green'' (Harvest House Publishers, 1989; revised and expanded in 2000; also on the Compact Disc version of [[The Ministry Years, Volume Two (1980-1982)|The Ministry Years, Volume Two]] album).

===Honors===

On November 27, 2001, Keith Green was inducted into the [[Gospel Music Hall of Fame]].

He was honored with the ASCAP Crescendo Award at the 28th annual ASCAP Christian Music Awards presentation dinner on April 3, 2006.<ref>[http://www.ascap.com/eventsawards/awards/christianawards/2006/index.html ASCAP Christian Music Awards presentation]</ref> Melody was present to receive the award.

==Quotes==
<blockquote>''"It's time to quit playing church and start being the Church (Matt. 18:20)"'' — Keith Green, as quoted by Melody Green in the introduction to ''A Cry in the Wilderness'', Sparrow Press, 1993.</blockquote>

<blockquote>''"I repent of ever having recorded one single song, and ever having performed one concert, if my music, and more importantly, my life has not provoked you into Godly jealousy or to sell out more completely to Jesus!"'' — Keith Green</blockquote>

<blockquote>''"You shouldn't go to college unless God has definitely called you to go."'' — Keith Green, 'Why YOU should go to the mission field', 1982</blockquote>

<blockquote>''"No Compromise is what the whole Gospel of Jesus is all about... 'For I tell you...no man can serve two masters...' (Matt. 6:24). In a day when believers seem to be trying to please both the world and the Lord (which is an impossible thing), when people are far more concerned about offending their friends than offending God, there is only one answer...Deny yourself, take up your cross and follow Him!"'' — Keith Green, [[No Compromise]] album, 1978.</blockquote>

<blockquote>''"He, being dead, yet speaketh."'' — [[Leonard Ravenhill]], Keith's mentor, borrowing from Hebrews 11:4 (KJV) in his 1990 2-page ''Memories of Keith'' tribute from a computer file, part of the [[Enhanced CD]] version of ''No Compromise'' by Melody Green with David Hazard.</blockquote>

==Discography==
===Released while living===
====Early releases====
Besides the first disc release in May 1965 (pictured above), two more Decca disc releases occurred before Donny Osmond took the spotlight.
[[Image:keith-green-girl dont tell me.jpg|thumb|left|''Girl Don't Tell Me'', Decca 31859, released October 1965. The other song was ''How To Be Your Guy''.]]
[[Image:keith-green-home town girl.jpg|thumb|none|''Home Town Girls'', Decca 31973, released July 1966. The other song was ''You're What's Happening Baby''.]]
 

====Later releases====
* ''[[For Him Who Has Ears to Hear]]'' (1977)
* ''[[No Compromise]]'' (1978)
* ''[[So You Wanna Go Back to Egypt]]'' (1980)
* ''[[The Keith Green Collection]]'' (1981)
* ''[[Songs For The Shepherd]]'' (1982)

===Released (officially) posthumously===
* ''[[The Prodigal Son (album)|The Prodigal Son]]'' (1983)
* ''[[I Only Want To See You There]]'' (1983)
* ''[[Jesus Commands Us To Go]]'' (1984)
* ''[[The Ministry Years, Volume One (1977-1979)]]'' (1987)
* ''[[The Ministry Years, Volume Two (1980-1982) (LP Album Release)]]'' (1988)
* ''[[The Ministry Years, Volume Two (1980-1982)|The Ministry Years, Volume Two (1980-1982) (CD Release)]]'' (1999)
* ''[[Ultimate Collection (Keith Green DVD)|The Ultimate Collection (DVD/CD Release)]]'' (2002)

===Tribute albums===
* ''[[No Compromise: Remembering the Music of Keith Green]]'' (1993)
* ''[[Start Right Here: Remembering the Life of Keith Green]]'' (2001)
* ''[[Your Love Broke Through: The Worship Songs Of Keith Green]]'' (2002)
==Bibliography==
''(All released posthumously)''
*''No Compromise: The Life Story of Keith Green'' (1989)
*''A Cry In The Wilderness: Twelve Bold Messages About Uncompromising Faith'' (1993)
*''If You Love The Lord'' (2000)
*''Make My Life A Prayer'' (2001)

== External links ==
* [http://www.lastdaysministries.org/ Last Days Ministries]
* [http://www.bl3nder.com/music/rhapsody/playlists/KeithGreen_Good_Christian_Music.rpl Keith Green's Music] ([[Rhapsody (online music service)|Rhapsody Playlist]])
* [http://www.lastdaysministries.org/articles/articleindex.html Index of Articles from the Last Days Newsletter]
* [http://launch.groups.yahoo.com/group/memoriesofkeithgreen/ Memories of Keith Green Yahoo! Group]
* [http://www.ntsb.gov/ntsb/brief.asp?ev_id=20020917X03242&key=1 NTSB Report of Crash]
* [http://www.aircraftone.com/aircraft/accidents/20020917X03242.asp Aircraft Incident and Accident report] (contains text of above NTSB report and a great deal more information)
* [http://www.planecrashinfo.com/famous1980s.htm Famous People Who Died in Aviation Accidents, 1980s] (This ties Keith Green to the Aircraft Registration Number in the NTSB report)
* [http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=5826090 Keith Green's Burial Site]
* [http://ldmer.com/images/Various/GV-1995.htm High Altitude Aerial Photo of Garden Valley], with a view of private runway inside the Last Days Ministries property (1995 satellite photo)

==References==
<references/>

[[Category:1953 births|Green, Keith]]
[[Category:1982 deaths|Green, Keith]]
[[Category:Christian musicians|Green, Keith]]
[[Category:Christian songwriters|Green, Keith]]
[[Category:American Christians|Green, Keith]]
[[Category:Plane crash victims|Green, Keith]]

[[de:Keith Green]]
[[sv:Keith Green]]

Steve Camp

2007-03-04T17:13:07Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

{{Infobox musical artist 
| Name = Steve Camp
| Img =
| Img_capt =
| Img_size = 
| Landscape =
| Background =
| Birth_name =
| Alias =
| Born = [[April 13]], [[1955]], [[Wheaton, Illinois]]
| Died =
| Origin =
| Instrument =
| Genre = [[Contemporary Christian music]]
| Occupation =
| Years_active = [[1978]] – present
| Label = [[Myrrh Records]][[Sparrow Records]][[Warner Bros. Records|Warner Alliance]]Ministry Audience One
| Associated_acts =
| URL =
| Current_members =
| Past_members =
| Notable_instruments =
}}

'''Steve Camp''' (born [[April 13]], [[1955]] in [[Wheaton, Illinois]]) is a [[contemporary Christian music]] artist with an adult contemporary pop sound. He was very popular in the late 1980s and early 1990s, however to date his popularity now continues mostly in his [[Christian]] writing addressing current trends and matters of [[Reformed Theology]]. He started Audience One Ministries, and his [[blog]] covering Christian music, biblical study, reformation, and revival.

He is well-known for his strong views that Christian musicians are called to make direct, uncompromising music that confronts the world with the message of the Scriptures. Following [[Martin Luther]]'s [[The 95 Theses|95 theses]], on [[Reformation Day]] ([[October 31]]), [[1998]] he sent out the 107 theses calling for a reformation in contemporary Christian music.

Camp was introduced once as the "[[Keith Green]] with theology" by [[John F. MacArthur]].

==Discography==
* ''Sayin' It With Love'' (1978, [[Myrrh Records|Myrrh]])
* ''Start Believin''' (1980, [[Sparrow Records|Sparrow]])
* ''For Every Man'' (1981, Sparrow)
* ''Only The Very Best'' (1983, Sparrow)
* ''Fire and Ice'' (1983, Sparrow)
* ''It's A Dying World'' (1984, Myrrh)
* ''Shake Me To Wake Me'' (1985, Sparrow)
* ''One on One'' (1986, Sparrow)
* ''After God's Own Heart'' (1987, Sparrow)
* ''Compact Favorites'' (1988, Sparrow)
* ''Justice'' (1989, Sparrow)
* ''Doing My Best'' (1990, Sparrow)
* ''Consider The Cost'' (1991, Sparrow)
* ''Doing My Best Volume 2'' (1991, Sparrow)
* ''Taking Heaven by Storm'' (1993, [[Warner Bros. Records|Warner Alliance]])
* ''Mercy in the Wilderness'' (1994, Warner Alliance)
* ''The Steve Camp Collection'' (1995, Sparrow)
* ''The Best of Steve Camp: My Utmost for His Highest'' (1995, Sparrow)
* ''Abandoned to God'' (1999, Ministry)
* ''Desiring God'' (2002, Audience One)

== External links ==
*[http://www.a1m.org Audience One Ministries]
*[http://stevenjcamp.blogspot.com CampOnThis - Steve Camp's Blog]
*[http://www.christianmusicarchive.com/artist.php?id=111 Complete Discography @ Christian Music Archive]
*[http://www.worship.com/steve_camp_107_theses.htm 107 Theses - Call for Reformation in Contemporary Christian Music Industry]

[[Category:1955 births|Camp, Steve]]
[[Category:Living people|Camp, Steve]]
[[Category:American male singers|Camp, Steve]]
[[Category:Christian musicians|Camp, Steve]]
[[Category:People from Illinois|Camp, Steve]]

Contemporary Christian Music

2007-03-04T17:11:08Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

{{christian music}}
'''Contemporary Christian Music''' (or '''CCM''') is a genre of [[popular music]] which is lyrically focused on matters concerned with the [[Christianity|Christian faith]]. The term is typically used to refer to the [[Nashville, Tennessee]]-based [[pop music|pop]], [[Rock music|rock]], and [[worship music|worship]] Christian music industry, currently represented by artists such as
[[Steven Curtis Chapman]], [[Skillet (band)|Skillet]], [[Pillar (band)|Pillar]], [[Amy Grant]], [[Jars of Clay]], [[MercyMe]], [[Third Day]], [[Relient K]], [[Jeremy Camp]], [[Hillsong United]], [[Shawn McDonald]], and a host of others. The industry is represented in [[Billboard Magazine]]'s "Top Christian Albums" and "Hot Christian Songs" charts,<ref name="BB_Main">{{cite web |url=http://www.billboard.com/bbcom/charts/christian_gospel_index.jsp |title=Best Selling Christian Singles and Albums |accessdate=2007-02-28 |publisher=''[[Billboard Magazine]]'' }}</ref> as well as the [[iTunes Music Store]]'s "Christian & Gospel" genre.

The term "Contemporary Christian Music" originated in the late [[1960s]] in reference to the emerging [[pop music|pop]] and [[rock music|rock]] "[[Jesus music]]", the musical outpouring of the [[hippie]] [[Jesus Movement]] of the time.<ref name="Powell_Fe">{{cite book |last=Powell |first=Mark Allan |title=Encyclopedia of Contemporary Christian Music |year=2002 |publisher=Hendrickson Publishers |location=[[Peabody, Massachusetts|Peabody]], [[Massachusetts]] |isbn=1-56563-679-1 |edition=First printing |pages=10-13}}</ref> Artists such as [[Larry Norman]], [[2nd Chapter of Acts]], and [[Love Song (band)|Love Song]] were among the first to express their [[Christianity|Christian]] faith in the form of popular music.

There is also a great deal of [[popular music]] which lyrically identifies with [[Christianity]] but is not normally considered Contemporary Christian Music.<ref name="Powell_Fe"/> For example, many underground [[Christian punk|punk]] and [[Christian hardcore|hardcore]] bands deal explicitly with issues of faith but are not a part of the Nashville industry (e.g., [[Seattle]]-based [[Tooth and Nail Records]]). Also, several mainstream music artists sometimes deal with Christian themes in their work, such as [[Bob Dylan]] and [[U2]], but fall outside of the CCM genre.<ref name="Powell_Fe"/>

==Controversy==
Contemporary Christian Music has been a topic of controversy in various ways since its beginnings in the 1960s.<ref name="Powell_Fe"/>

Some conservative Christians feel that the medium of popular music is unholy, and thus unfit for Christian participation. For example, [[Bob Jones University]] prohibits its dormitory students from listening to CCM.<ref name="BJU_Hall">{{cite web |url=http://www.bju.edu/prospective/expect/rhall.html |title=BJU ~ Residence Hall Life |accessdate=2007-02-28 |publisher=[[Bob Jones University]] }}</ref> Other noted Christian critics of CCM include [[John F. MacArthur|John MacArthur]], Dan Lucarini (the author of the book ''Why I Left the Contemporary Christian Music Movement''), and Kimberly Smith (author of the books ''Oh Be Careful Little Ears'' and ''Let Those Who Have Ears to Hear'').

CCM also draws criticism from those who feel it is simply a "Christianized" imitation of mainstream music, thus lacking originality and creativity. On [[Reformation Day]] ([[October 31]]), [[1998]], in homage to [[Martin Luther]]'s [[95 theses]], CCM artist [[Steve Camp]] sent out 107 theses calling for a "Reformation" in contemporary Christian music,<ref name="Camp_107">{{cite web |url=http://www.worship.com/steve_camp_107_theses.htm |title=A Call For Reformation in the Contemporary Christian Music Industry |accessdate=2007-02-28 |last=Camp |first=Steven John |authorlink=Steve Camp |year=1997 |publisher=[http://www.worship.com Worship.com]}}</ref> challenging Christian artists to "recover Biblical Christianity in the arts"<ref name="Camp_107"/> and bring a new level of excellence to the field.

Also, oftentimes CCM draws criticism from those who simply find the concept of Christian pop/rock music to be an unusual phenomenon, since rock music has historically been associated with themes such as sexual [[promiscuity]], [[rebellion]], [[drug]] and [[alcohol]] use, and other topics normally considered antithetical to the teachings of Christianity.<ref name="Powell_Fe"/> (For more on this topic, see: [[Social effects of rock and roll]].) Perhaps the most well-known (and humorous) defense to this criticism is a quote from a 19th century Methodist minister [[Rowland Hill]]: "Why should the devil have all the good music?" (Note: this quote is often incorrectly attributed to [[Martin Luther]]).

==Further reading==
* Alfonso, Barry. ''The Billboard Guide to Contemporary Christian Music''. Billboard Books, 2002.
* Beaujon, Andrew. ''Body Piercing Saved My Life: Inside the Phenomenon of Christian Rock''. Da Capo Press, 2006.
* Di Sabatino, David. ''The Jesus People Movement: An Annotated Bibliography and General Resource''. Westport, Conn.: Greenwood, 1999.
* Flux, Chris. ''Music Evangelism: Spreading the Gospel through Music''. Bloomington, IN: AuthorHouse, 2006. [http://www.musicevangelism.com http://www.musicevangelism.com]
* Granger, Thom. ''[[CCM Presents: The 100 Greatest Albums in Christian Music]]''. Nashville: CCM Books, 2001.
* Howard, Jay R and John M Streck. ''Apostles of Rock: The Splintered World of Contemporary Christian Music''. Lexington: The University of Kentucky Press, 1999.
* Joseph, Mark. ''The Rock and Roll Rebellion: Why People of Faith Abandoned Rock Music-- And Why They're Coming Back''. Nashville: Broadman & Holman, 1999.
* {{cite book |last=Mount |first=Daniel J. |title=A City on a Hilltop? The History of Contemporary Christian Music |year=2005 |url=http://www.danielmount.net/ccm.html |accessdate=2007-02-12}}
* {{cite book |last=Powell |first=Mark Allan |title=Encyclopedia of Contemporary Christian Music |year=2002 |publisher=Hendrickson Publishers |location=[[Peabody, Massachusetts|Peabody]], [[Massachusetts]] |isbn=1-56563-679-1}}
* Romanowski, William D. ''Eyes Wide Open: Looking for God in Popular Culture''. Brazos Press, 2001.
* Pruitt, Jim. ''Contemporary Christian Musician's Survival Manual''. Lulu, 2003. http://www.cyshift.com/jarc/ccmsm.html
* Young, Shawn David, M.A., Hippies, Jesus Freaks, and Music (Ann Arbor: Xanedu/Copley Original Works, 2005.ISBN 1-59399-201-7

==Notes==
<div class="references-small"><references/></div>

==See also==
*[[GMA Music Awards]]
*[[Korean Contemporary Christian music]]
*[[List of Contemporary Christian music artists]]

==External links==
* Steve Camp's [http://www.worship.com/steve_camp_107_theses.htm 107 Theses: A call for Reformation in Contemporary Christian Music Industry]
* [http://www.christianitytoday.com/music Christian Music Today]
* [http://www.christianmusicmonthly.com Christian Music Monthly]
* [http://www.jesusfreakhideout.com/ Jesus Freak Hideout]
* [http://www.cmcentral.com Christian Music Central]
* [http://www.ccmcom.com Contemporary Christian Music (CCM) Magazine]

[[Category:Contemporary Christian music]]
[[Category:Christian music genres]]
[[Category:Popular music]]

[[de:Christliche Popmusik]]
[[pl:Contemporary Christian music]]
[[es:Música cristiana]]
[[pt:Música Cristã Contemporânea]]
[[zh:当代基督教音乐]]

Michael W. Smith

2007-03-04T17:09:24Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

{{Infobox musical artist
|Name = Michael W. Smith
|Img = Michael W. Smith.jpg
|Img_capt = Michael W. Smith
|Background = solo_singer
|Birth_name = Michael Whitaker Smith
|Alias = Smitty
|Born = [[October 7]], [[1957]][[Kenova, West Virginia|Kenova]], [[West Virginia]]
|Died =
|Origin = {{flagicon|USA}} [[USA]]
|Instrument = [[Piano]][[Guitar]]
|Genre = [[Contemporary Christian music|CCM]][[Worship music|Worship]][[Pop music|Pop]]
|Occupation = [[Musician]][[Songwriter]][[Composer]]
|Years_active = 1983 – present (Solo)
|Label = [[Reunion Records]]
|Associated_acts = [[Amy Grant]]
|URL = [http://www.michaelwsmith.com/ www.michaelwsmith.com]
|Current_members =
|Past_members =
}}

{{TOCright}}

'''Michael Whitaker Smith''' (born [[October 7]], [[1957]], to Paul and Barbara Smith in [[Kenova, West Virginia|Kenova]], [[West Virginia]]), often nicknamed "Smitty", is a [[Christian]] [[singer]], [[songwriter]], [[guitarist]], and [[keyboardist]].

Since his first solo project in 1983, Smith has become one of the most popular artists in the [[Contemporary Christian music]] world, while also finding considerable success in the mainstream. Smith himself is hesitant to put a label on his music and states that he "doesn't make a record for the Christian market or for the Pop market, [he] just makes a record." <ref>''Change Your World Live'' video</ref> Smith has frequently topped both Christian radio and [[Billboard magazine|Billboard]] charts and is often listed as one of the top keyboardists in rock and roll in Keyboard Magazine. Smith has sold more than 13 million records and has had 29 #1 hit songs. By 2005, he had garnered 14 gold records and 5 platinum records, 40 Dove Awards, an American Music Award and 3 [[Grammy Award]]s. He was also named one of [[People magazine]]'s most beautiful people.

By the time Smith graduated from high school, he had found himself with serious drug and alcohol abuse problems. He attended [[Marshall University]] for a brief period while developing his songwriting skills with various local bands around [[Huntington, West Virginia]]. Smith dropped out of college and moved to [[Nashville]] to pursue a professional music career. In November of 1979, he suffered an emotional and mental breakdown that awakened a re-commitment to [[Christianity]]. He cleaned up his substance abuse problem and began playing keyboards for the CCM group, Higher Ground.<ref>[http://www.christianitytoday.com/cl/1988/003/1.56.html| Christianity Today, 1988]</ref>

In 1981, Smith was signed as a writer to Meadowgreen Music, where he racked up a number of highly successful gospel hits penned for artists like [[Sandi Patty]], [[Kathy Troccoli]], [[Bill Gaither]], and [[Amy Grant]]. The following year, Smith began touring as a keyboardist for Grant on her ''[[Age to Age]]'' tour. He would eventually become Grant's opening act and recorded his first [[Grammy]] nominated solo album: ''[[The Michael W. Smith Project]]'' (which he also produced), in 1983, on the [[Reunion Records]] label; a label started by Grant's brother-in-law, Dan Harrell, along with Michael Blanton. This album contained the first recording of his hit ''Friends'' which he co-wrote with his wife Deborah. Incidentally, the song that is most associated with him, probably took him the least amount of time to write, as they wrote it one afternoon for a friend who was moving away, never thinking it would become the hit it has.

By the time Smith's second pop album was released in 1984, he was headlining his own tours. In 1986, Smith released the critically acclaimed rock album ''[[The Big Picture (Michael W. Smith album)|The Big Picture]]'', with well known [[record producer]] Johnny Potoker ([[Brian Eno]], [[Genesis (band)|Genesis]], [[Madonna (entertainer)|Madonna]], [[No Doubt]], [[Talking Heads]], etc).

After the release of his 1988 effort, ''[[i 2 (EYE)]]'', Smith once again teamed up with [[Amy Grant]] for her "[[Lead Me On]] World Tour". The following year, Smith recorded his first Christmas album.

==In the mainstream==

In 1990, Michael W. Smith released ''[[Go West Young Man]]'', which was his first real mainstream effort, including the mainstream [[crossover (music)|crossover]] hit "Place In This World". That album was followed by 1992s ''[[Change Your World (Michael W. Smith album)|Change Your World]]'' (which included the #1 adult contemporary hit "I Will Be Here For You"), 1995s ''[[I'll Lead You Home]]'', and 1998s ''[[Live The Life]]''. Also in 1998, Smith released his second Christmas effort, ''[[Christmastime]]''. In 1999, Smith released ''[[This Is Your Time]]'', written by Smith and [[Wes King]], the brother-in-law of Florida Secretary of State [[Katherine Harris]], which was inspired by the [[Columbine High School massacre|Columbine]] shootings. Smith had been asked to perform at some of the memorial services that were held in honor of the victims, which made a huge impression on him.

In 1996, Smith opened his own record label (although he does not record on it), [[Rocketown Records]], named for a song on ''The Big Picture''. He states the label is driven by the artists, and the first artist signed was [[Chris Rice]], who had written "Go Light Your World", a #1 hit song by [[Kathy Troccoli]], in 1995.

Nearly all of Smith's albums contain at least one instrumental track, and in 2000, Smith recorded his first all instrumental album, ''[[Freedom (Michael W. Smith album)|Freedom]]'', after many years of wanting to create an instrumental album. The following year, Smith released an all praise and worship album, called ''[[Worship (2001 album)|Worship]]'', interestingly on [[September 11]]. This album was followed by a sequel, ''[[Worship Again]]'' in 2002. Both albums were recorded live in concert. (Both are also the only two albums to be comprised almost entirely of songs he did not write himself). A ''Worship'' DVD, which comprised a selection of songs from both albums, was recorded live in [[Edmonton]], [[Alberta]] at a youth conference and released in 2002. It immediately topped the Billboard video charts and became a Gold seller in both the U.S. and [[Canada]].

After two decades, Smith finally won the Male Vocalist of the Year award at the [[GMA Music Awards]] in 2003.

Smith wrote a song entitled "There She Stands", prompted by the [[September 11, 2001 attacks|9/11]] terrorist attacks. He performed this song live for the 2004 [[Republican National Convention]]. In introducing the song before he performed it, he made remarks about meeting personally with President [[George W. Bush]] in the [[Oval Office]] in October of 2001, a short time after the attacks. Smith mentioned that the President, a personal fan (as is the President's father), and family friend of the artist, had asked him to attempt to write a song about the attacks. The song is about America's ability to rise from the ashes and remain strong even after such horrific events.

Smith became a good friend of [[U2 (band)|U2]] frontman [[Bono]]. The two have joined forces on a number of occasions for performances and in connection to Bono's DATA Organization. While U2 was recording its album ''[[How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb]]'', Bono even invited Smith to jam with them in the studio. The song that the group worked on with Smith did not end up making it onto the record, but might surface in the future on another project.

Smith's album, ''[[Healing Rain]]'', was released in 2004 and debuted at #11 on the Billboard Hot 200 Chart. The title track rose to #1 on the Radio & Records Charts and a music video for the song was released. The album nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Pop/Contemporary Gospel Album, combines the pop style of his previous recordings with the praise and worship feel of his two releases in that genre. A new album, ''[[Stand (Michael W. Smith album)|Stand]]'', was released in November, 2006.

Smith and his wife have written the theme songs for [[Kanakuk Kamps]] for the past two decades. The theme songs have birthed such notable hits as "Love Crusade", "Live the Life", and "Straight to the Heart". The [[Christian]] youth at this camp give Smith access to a steady, young audience even as his original fans age.

== Other ventures ==

In 1994, Smith opened a teen club, named Rocketown, in Franklin, Tennessee. Later in early 2003, the club was moved to a new location--a renovated warehouse in downtown Nashville. The venue offers a large dance floor, extensive indoor skate park, and a cafe hosting live acoustic music. Rocketown is located on 401 6th Ave. S. Quoting a [http://www.christianactivities.com/youth/story.asp?ID=2469 Christian Activities] article, ''Rocketown's mission is to create culturally relevant environments that foster vital relationships between disenfranchised adolescents and Christian mentors in order to meet their physical, social, and spiritual needs.''

Smith is actively involved in volunteer service and is vice chair of the [[President's Council on Service and Civic Participation]], which is chaired by [[Jean Case]] of the [[Case Foundation]].

Smith finished work on a film directed by [[Steve Taylor]] entitled ''[[The Second Chance]]'' which was released on [[February 17]], [[2006]] in selected theatres. In the movie, he stars as a pastor assigned to work in the inner city. The film also stars [[Jeff Obafemi Carr]], and features a soundtrack now available from [[Reunion Records]]. The DVD of the movie was released on July 18, 2006.

==Discography==
===Albums===
{| border=1 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=2 class="wikitable"
!align="center" valign="top"|Album Cover
!align="center" valign="top"|Title
!align="center" valign="top"|Release Date
!align="center" valign="top"|The [[Billboard magazine|Billboard]] 200 Chart Position
!align="center" valign="top"|[[RIAA Certification]]
!align="center" valign="top"|[[CRIA]] Certification Canada
|-
|align="center"| [[Image:Project.jpg|50px|]]
|align="left" valign="top"| ''[[The Michael W. Smith Project]]''
|align="center" valign="top"| 1983
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|align="center" valign="top"| Gold
|-
|align="center"| [[Image:Mws2.jpg|50px|]]
|align="left" valign="top"| ''[[Michael W. Smith 2]]''
|align="center" valign="top"| 1984
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|align="center" valign="top"|
|-
|align="center"| [[Image:Bigpicture.jpg|50px|]]
|align="left" valign="top"| ''[[The Big Picture (Michael W. Smith album)|The Big Picture]]''
|align="center" valign="top"| Feb. 1, 1986
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|align="center" valign="top"|
|-
|align="center"| [[Image:Liveset.jpg|50px|]]
|align="left" valign="top"| ''[[The Live Set]]''
|align="center" valign="top"| Mar. 1, 1987
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|align="center" valign="top"|
|-
|align="center"| [[Image:I2eye.jpg|50px|]]
|align="left" valign="top"| ''[[i 2 (EYE)]]''
|align="center" valign="top"| 1988
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|align="center" valign="top"| Gold
|-
|align="center"| [[Image:Christmas_%28album%29.jpg|50px|]]
|align="left" valign="top"| ''[[Christmas (Michael W. Smith album)|Christmas]]''
|align="center" valign="top"| June 1989
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|align="center" valign="top"|
|-
|align="center"| [[Image:Gowestyoungman.jpg|50px|]]
|align="left" valign="top"| ''[[Go West Young Man]]''
|align="center" valign="top"| 1990
|align="center" valign="top"| 74
|align="center" valign="top"| Platinum
|-
|align="center"| [[Image:Changeyourworld.jpg|50px|]]
|align="left" valign="top"| ''[[Change Your World (Michael W. Smith album)|Change Your World]]''
|align="center" valign="top"| Jan. 1, 1992
|align="center" valign="top"| 86
|align="center" valign="top"| Platinum
|-
|align="center"| [[Image:Firstdecade.jpg|50px|]]
|align="left" valign="top"| ''[[The First Decade (1983-1993)]]''
|align="center" valign="top"| Oct. 12, 1993
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|align="center" valign="top"|
|-
|align="center"| [[Image:Illleadyouhome.jpg|50px|]]
|align="left" valign="top"| ''[[I'll Lead You Home]]''
|align="center" valign="top"| Aug. 29, 1995
|align="center" valign="top"| 16
|align="center" valign="top"| Platinum
|-
|align="center"| [[Image:Livethelife.jpg|50px|]]
|align="left" valign="top"| ''[[Live The Life]]''
|align="center" valign="top"| Apr. 28, 1998
|align="center" valign="top"| 23
|align="center" valign="top"| Gold
|-
|align="center"| [[Image:Christmastime.jpg|50px|]]
|align="left" valign="top"| ''[[Christmastime]]''
|align="center" valign="top"| Oct. 13, 1998
|align="center" valign="top"| 90
|align="center" valign="top"|
|-
|align="center"| [[Image:Thisisyourtime.jpg|50px|]]
|align="left" valign="top"| ''[[This Is Your Time]]''
|align="center" valign="top"| Nov. 23, 1999
|align="center" valign="top"| 21
|align="center" valign="top"| Gold
|-
|align="center"| [[Image:Freedom_%28album%29.jpg|50px|]]
|align="left" valign="top"| ''[[Freedom (Michael W. Smith album)|Freedom]]''
|align="center" valign="top"| Nov. 21, 2000
|align="center" valign="top"| 70
|align="center" valign="top"|
|-
|align="center"| [[Image:MWSWorship.jpg|50px|]]
|align="left" valign="top"| ''[[Worship (2001 album)|Worship]]''
|align="center" valign="top"| Sep. 11, 2001
|align="center" valign="top"| 20
|align="center" valign="top"| Platinum
|align="center" valign="top"| Gold
|-
|align="center"| [[Image:Cdmichaelwsmith_worshipagain.jpg|50px|]]
|align="left" valign="top"| ''[[Worship Again]]''
|align="center" valign="top"| Oct. 22, 2002
|align="center" valign="top"| 14
|align="center" valign="top"| Gold
|-
|align="center"| [[Image:G05929g9eqg.jpg|50px|]]
|align="left" valign="top"| ''[[The Second Decade|The Second Decade (1993-2003)]]''
|align="center" valign="top"| Oct. 7, 2003
|align="center" valign="top"| 38
|align="center" valign="top"|
|-
|align="center"| [[Image:MwsHealing_Rain.jpg|50px|]]
|align="left" valign="top"| ''[[Healing Rain]]''
|align="center" valign="top"| Oct. 26, 2004
|align="center" valign="top"| 11
|align="center" valign="top"| Gold
|-
|align="center"| [[Image:Stand.jpg|50px|]]
|align="left" valign="top"| ''[[Stand (Michael W. Smith album)|Stand]]''
|align="center" valign="top"| ''Nov 7. 2006''
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|align="center" valign="top"|
|}

===Imports===
{| border=1 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=2 class="wikitable"
!align="center" valign="top"|Album
!align="center" valign="top"|Release Year
!align="center" valign="top"|The [[Billboard magazine|Billboard]] 200 Chart Position
!align="center" valign="top"|[[RIAA Certification]]
|-
|align="left" valign="top"| ''Live the Life (w/bonus tracks - Japanese Import)''
|align="center" valign="top"| 1998
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|-
|align="left" valign="top"| ''Freedom''
|align="center" valign="top"| 2000
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|-
|}

===Collaborative Albums===
{| border=1 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=2 class="wikitable"
!align="center" valign="top"|Album
!align="center" valign="top"|Release Year
!align="center" valign="top"|The [[Billboard magazine|Billboard]] 200 Chart Position
!align="center" valign="top"|[[RIAA Certification]]
|-
| ''Our Hymns''
|align="center" valign="top"| 1991
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|-
| ''My Utmost for His Highest''
|align="center" valign="top"| 1995
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|-
| ''My Utmost for His Highest: The Covenant''
|align="center" valign="top"| 1996
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|-
| ''Emmanuel''
|align="center" valign="top"| 1996
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|-
| ''Tribute: The Songs Of Andrae' Crouch''
|align="center" valign="top"| 1996
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|-
| ''[[The Jesus Record]]''
|align="center" valign="top"| 1997
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|-
| ''Exodus''
|align="center" valign="top"| 1999
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|-
| ''The McCaughey Septuplets: Sweet Dreams''
|align="center" valign="top"| 2000
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|-
| ''Your Love Broke Through: The Worship Songs of Keith Green''
|align="center" valign="top"| 2002
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|-
| ''Roaring Lambs''
|align="center" valign="top"| 2005
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|-
| ''Ultimate Music Makeover: The Songs of Michael W. Smith''
|align="center" valign="top"| 2005
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|}

===Singles/Specialty/EP's===
{| border=1 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=2 class="wikitable"
!align="center" valign="top"|Album
!align="center" valign="top"|Release Year
!align="center" valign="top"|The [[Billboard magazine|Billboard]] 200 Chart Position
!align="center" valign="top"|[[RIAA Certification]]
|-
| ''Live The Life (Remix EP)''
|align="center" valign="top"| 1997
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|-
| ''The Acoustic Set: A Live Recording''
|align="center" valign="top"| 2000
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|-
| ''Devotions''
|align="center" valign="top"| 2001
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|}

===Singles===
{| class="wikitable"
!rowspan="2"|'''Year'''
!rowspan="2"| '''Title'''
!colspan="2"| '''Chart positions'''
|-
|[[Billboard magazine|Billboard]] Adult Contemporary
|Billboard Hot 100
|-
| 1991
| "Place In This World"
|align="center" valign="top"| 5
|align="center" valign="top"| 6
|-
| 1991
| "For You"
|align="center" valign="top"| 20
|align="center" valign="top"| 60
|-
| 1992
| "I Will Be Here For You"
|align="center" valign="top"| 1
|align="center" valign="top"| 27
|-
| 1993
| "Somebody Love Me"
|align="center" valign="top"| 10
|align="center" valign="top"| 71
|-
| 1998
| "Love Me Good"
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|align="center" valign="top"| 61
|-
| 1999
| "This Is Your Time"
|align="center" valign="top"| 25
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|-
| 2005
| "Bridge Over Troubled Water"
|align="center" valign="top"| 28
|align="center" valign="top"| -
|}

=== Video (DVD/VHS) ===
*''Live in Concert – A 20 Year Celebration'' (DVD) (2003)
*''Worship'' (DVD) (2002)[[CRIA]] Gold in Canada
*''Change Your World Live'' (VHS) (1993)
*''The Big Picture Tour'' (VHS) (1987)
*''Michael W. Smith In Concert'' (VHS) (1985)

=== Soundtrack (CD) ===
*''The Second Chance'' (CD) (2006)

=== Motion picture (DVD) ===
*''[[Joshua]]'' (DVD) (2002)
*''[http://www.thesecondchancemovie.com/_site/mediaplayer/index.php?id=28dcf5b6b1e4da21f4c6de1029dec85a] [[The Second Chance]]'' (DVD) (2006)

== Notes ==
<div class="references-small">
<references />
</div>

==External links==
*[http://www.michaelwsmith.com Michael W. Smith's official website]
*[http://www.michaelwsmith.de/ Michael W. Smith's archive] (contains one-minute samples of all tracks)
*[http://www.reunionrecords.com Reunion Records' website]
*[http://www.rocketownrecords.com Rocketown Records]

*[http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0809363 Michael W. Smith] at the [[Internet Movie Database]]
*[http://www.casefoundation.org/web/guest/spotlight/youthservice/council/michael_w_smith Interview about his charitable work]
*[http://www.christianguitar.org/csongs467/Michael-W.-Smith Michael W. Smith guitar tabs]
*[http://transcripts.cnn.com/TRANSCRIPTS/0602/10/lkl.01.html Transcript of February 10, 2006 interview with [[Larry King]]]

[[Category:1957 births|Smith, Michael W.]]
[[Category:Living people|Smith, Michael W.]]
[[Category:American musicians|Smith, Michael W.]]
[[Category:American songwriters|Smith, Michael W.]]
[[Category:Christian musicians|Smith, Michael W.]]
[[Category:Dove Award winners|Smith, Michael W.]]
[[Category:People from Huntington, West Virginia|Smith, Michael W.]]
[[Category:People from Nashville|Smith, Michael W.]]
[[Category:American Christians|Smith, Michael W.]]
[[Category:Grammy Award winners|Smith, Michael W.]]
[[Category:People from Nashville, Tennessee]]

[[cs:Michael W. Smith]]
[[de:Michael W. Smith]]
[[fr:Michael W. Smith]]
[[hu:Michael W. Smith]]
[[nl:Michael W. Smith]]
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[[zh:米高·維塔克·史密夫]]

Amy Grant

2007-03-04T17:07:23Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

{{Unreferenced|date=September 2006}}
{{Infobox musical artist
| Name = [[Image:Amy Grant logo.PNG|150px|Amy Grant's logo during the early 1980s.]]
| Img = Amygrant2005promo.jpg
| Img_capt = Amy Grant in 2005, shortly after the release of her album ''Rock of Ages''.
| Background = khaki
| Birth_name = Amy Lee Grant
| Born = {{birth date and age|1960| 11|25}}
| Origin = {{flagicon|USA}}[[Augusta, Georgia]], [[United States]]
| Genre = [[Contemporary Christian music|Christian]], [[Pop music|pop]], [[Adult contemporary music|Adult contemporary]]
| Years_active = 1977–present
| Label = [[Myrrh Records|Myrrh]] (1977–1997) [[Word Records|Word]] (1977–present) [[A&M Records|A&M]] (1985–2004) [[Warner Music Group|Warner/Curb]] (2005–)
| URL = [http://www.amygrant.com Amygrant.com]
}}
'''Amy Lee Grant''' (born [[November 25]] [[1960]]) is an [[United States|America]]n [[Contemporary Christian music|Christian]] and [[Pop music|pop]] [[singer-songwriter]] and occasional [[actor|actress]] and [[author]].

Grant made her debut in [[1977]] as a teenager, and scored her first number-one Christian radio hit two years later. In [[1982]], she released her breakthrough album, ''[[Age to Age]]'', which would become the first Contemporary Christian music album to be certified platinum.

By [[1985]], her music began to reach a wider audience, as her album ''[[Unguarded]]'' crossed over onto mainstream charts. This feat was reproduced in [[1991]] when her album ''[[Heart in Motion|Heart In Motion]]'' became a best-seller and the single "[[Baby Baby]]" became a number one pop hit.

Throughout the [[1990s]] and early [[2000s]], Grant continued to record pop-oriented albums, and did not make a full-fledged return to gospel music until [[2002]], with the record ''[[Legacy...Hymns and Faith]]''. In [[2006]], Grant hosted her own reality television show on [[NBC]], called ''[[Three Wishes]]''.

As of [[2007]], Grant remains the best-selling [[Contemporary Christian music]] singer, having sold over 25 million records worldwide, and ''Heart in Motion'' is the best-selling Christian music album as well, matching sales of 5 million.

==Career==
===Beginnings===
After she signed to a record company at the age of sixteen, Amy Grant's first, self-titled [[Amy Grant (album)|album]] (largely self-composed) in [[1977]], was a runaway success in terms of the Christian music market of the time. A graduate of [[Harpeth Hall School]] and then an [[English language|English]] major at [[Furman University]] and later [[Vanderbilt University]], Grant made a few more albums before dropping out of college to pursue a career in music. These albums included [[1979]]'s ''[[My Father's Eyes]]'' (the title track written by Grant's future first husband, singer-songwriter [[Gary Chapman (musician)|Gary Chapman]]) and ''[[Never Alone]]'' in [[1980]].

The year [[1982]] marked a turning point in both Grant's career and her personal life. After she married Chapman in June, her album ''[[Age to Age]]'' forced critics to sit up and take notice. The breakthrough album contained the now signature track, "[[El Shaddai (song)|El Shaddai]]" (written by [[Michael Card]]) and the Grant-Chapman penned song, "In A Little While". Now a star, Grant received her first [[Grammy Award]] for Best Contemporary Gospel Performance, as well as two [[GMA Dove Awards]] for Gospel Artist of the Year and Pop/Contemporary Album of the Year. ''Age to Age'' would later become the first Christian album by a solo artist to be certified gold ([[1983]]) and the first ever Christian album to be certified platinum ([[1985]]).

It was around this time that Grant began touring and recording with young up-and-coming songwriter [[Michael W. Smith]]. To this day, Grant and Smith continue to have a strong friendship and creative relationship, often writing songs for or contributing vocals to each other's albums. "[[El Shaddai (song)|El Shaddai]]" would later be awarded one of the "[[Songs of the Century]]" by the [[RIAA]] in 2001.

Grant followed up this album with the first of her Christmas albums - albums that later would be the basis for her trademark holiday shows. [[1984]] saw the release of another pop-oriented Christian hit, ''[[Straight Ahead (Amy Grant album)|Straight Ahead]],'' earning Grant her first appearance at the Grammy Awards show.

===Widening audience===
[[Image:Find A Way single.jpg|thumb|left|185px|The cover of the single "Find a Way"]]
Hardly had Grant established herself as the "Queen of Christian Pop", however, when she changed directions to widen her fan base (and hence her musical message). Her goal was to become the first Christian singer-songwriter who was also successful as a contemporary pop singer. [[1985]]'s ''[[Unguarded]]'' shocked some fans for its very mainstream sound (and Grant's leopard-print jacket, in four poses for four different covers). "[[Find a Way]]," from ''Unguarded'', became the first Christian song to hit [[The Billboard Hot 100|Billboard's Top 40]] list, also reaching #7 on the Adult Contemporary chart. Amy Grant scored her first Billboard Number One hit in 1986 with "[[The Next Time I Fall]]", a breezy duet with former [[Chicago (band)|Chicago]] singer/bassist [[Peter Cetera]]. That year, she also recorded a duet with singer [[Randy Stonehill]] for his ''[[Love Beyond Reason]]'' album, entitled "I Could Never Say Goodbye".

[[1988]]'s ''[[Lead Me On]]'' contained many songs that were about Christianity and love relationships, but some interpreted it as not being an obviously "Christian" record, although the album's title track is now considered a CCM classic. Years later, ''Lead Me On'' would be chosen as the greatest Contemporary Christian album of all time by ''[[CCM Magazine]]''.[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CCM_Presents:_The_100_Greatest_Albums_in_Christian_Music] The mainstream song "Saved by Love" was a minor hit, receiving airplay on radio stations featuring the newly emerging [[Adult Contemporary]] format. The album's title song received some pop radio airplay and crossed over to #96 on the Billboard Hot 100, and "1974 (We Were Young)" and "Saved By Love" also charted as Adult Contemporary songs.

===1990s===
[[Image:Heart_In_Motion.jpg|frame|right|150px|The cover of '''Heart In Motion,''' Amy Grant's (and Christian music's) biggest album.]]

Nevertheless, when ''[[Heart in Motion]]'' was released three years later, many fans were shocked and outraged that the album was so clearly one of contemporary [[pop music]]. Amy's desire to widen her audience was frowned upon by the confines of the popular definitions of "ministry" at the time. The track "[[Baby Baby]]" (written for Grant's newborn daughter, Millie, whose "six week old face was my inspiration,") however, became a massive hit (hitting number 1 on the ''Billboard'' Hot 100 pop chart), and Grant was established as a name in the mainstream music world. The music video created outrage in the industry,{{Fact|date=February 2007}} for in it, Grant dances and playfully flirts with model [[Jme Stein]], not her husband. When interviewed about the theme of the video, she said she thought the song was more relatable to others when seen in a romantic light.{{Fact|date=February 2007}} Grant has also said that her original vision for the song's video clip involved many small babies in one room; however, A&M executives nixed the idea.{{Fact|date=February 2007}} "Baby Baby" received Grammy nominations for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance and Record and Song of the Year (although it failed to win in any of those categories). Four other hits from the album made the Pop top 20: "Every Heartbeat" (#2), "That's What Love Is For" (#7), "Good For Me" (#8), and "I Will Remember You" (#20). On the Adult Contemporary chart, all five songs were top 10 hits with two of the five ("Baby Baby" and "That's What Love Is For") making it all the way to #1. Many Christian fans remained loyal, as the album also topped the Billboard's Contemporary Christian Chart for 32 weeks. ''Heart in Motion'' is her best-selling album and one of the best selling albums of all time according to the [[RIAA]], having sold over 5 million copies. She followed this album with her second Christmas album, [[Home For Christmas]], in 1992, containing "[[Breath of Heaven (Mary's Song)]]", which would later be covered by many artists, including [[Donna Summer]], [[Jessica Simpson]] (who would acknowledge Amy as one of her favorite artists), [[Vince Gill]], [[Sara Groves]], and [[Point of Grace]].

''[[House of Love (album)|House of Love]]'' in [[1994]] continued in the same vein, boasting catchy pop songs mingled with spiritual lyrics. The album was a multi-platinum success and produced the pop hit "Lucky One" (#18 pop and #2 AC; #1 on [[Radio & Records]]) as well as the title track (a duet with country music star and future husband [[Vince Gill]]) (#37 pop) and a cover of Joni Mitchell's frequently-covered "[[Big Yellow Taxi]]" (#67 pop).

In 1995, Amy expressed a desire to create more guitar-driven, rock-oriented music, pointing to [[Hootie & The Blowfish]] and [[Sheryl Crow]] as influences.{{Fact|date=February 2007}} As part of this newfound direction, she participated in Lifetime's 1st Annual "[[Girls & Guitars]]" benefit, singing a number of songs, including a duet with [[Melissa Etheridge]] on "You Sleep While I Drive".

After she covered the [[10cc]] song "The Things We Do For Love" for the ''[[Mr. Wrong]]'' soundtrack, [[1997]]'s ''[[Behind the Eyes]]'' was released in September. The album struck a much darker note, leaning more towards downtempo, acoustic soft-rock songs with more mature (yet still optimistic) lyrics (such as the radio hit "Takes A Little Time"). She called it her "razor blades and [[Prozac]]" album. The video for "Takes A Little Time" was certainly a new direction for Grant; with a blue light filter, acoustic guitar, the streets and characters of New York City, and a plot, Amy was re-cast as an adult light rocker. She followed up "Behind The Eyes" with ''[[A Christmas To Remember]]'', her third Christmas album, in [[1999]].

Grant and Chapman separated and [[divorce|divorced]] in [[1999]]. In [[2000]] Grant married [[Vince Gill]], who had divorced country singer [[Janis Gill]] of [[Sweethearts of the Rodeo]].

===2000s===
After giving birth to her fourth child Corinna Grant Gill, Grant returned to her [[gospel music]] roots with the [[2002]] release of ''[[Legacy...Hymns and Faith]]''. The album featured a Vince Gill-influenced mix of bluegrass and gospel and marked Grant's 25th anniversary in the music industry. Grant followed this up with the pop release ''[[Simple Things (Amy Grant album)|Simple Things]]'' in [[2003]]. The album did not see the success of her previous pop efforts, however. Soon after ''Simple Things'', Grant and [[Interscope]]/A&M parted ways. True to all of her work, spiritual themes weave in and out of the everyday experience. The same year, Grant got inducted into the [[Gospel Music Hall of Fame]] by the [[Gospel Music Association]], an industry trade organization of which she is a longstanding member, in her first year of eligibility.

Grant released a sequel to her [[hymns]] collection in [[2005]] titled ''[[Rock of Ages...Hymns and Faith|Rock of Ages... Hymns & Faith]]''. Despite publicly musing that life would be easier if she weren't working,{{Fact|date=February 2007}} Grant joined the [[reality television]] phenomenon by hosting ''[[Three Wishes]]'', a show in which she and a team of helpers make wishes come true for small-town residents. The show debuted on [[NBC]] in the fall of 2005 and was cancelled at the end of its first season due to high production costs. After ''Three Wishes'' was cancelled, Grant won her 6th [[Grammy Award]] for ''[[Rock of Ages...Hymns and Faith|Rock of Ages... Hymns & Faith]]''. In a February, [[2006]] webchat, Amy stated she believes her "best music is still ahead".

In April of 2006, a live CD/DVD entitled ''[[Time Again...Amy Grant Live]]'' [http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000I0QJKW] was recorded in [[Fort Worth, TX]], at [[Bass Performance Hall]]. (Amy's first paid public performance was at the Will Rogers Auditorium in Fort Worth, TX.) The concert was released on [[September 26]], [[2006]]. (The CD and DVD are sold separately). In addition to receiving a star on the [[Hollywood Walk of Fame]], media appearances include write-ups in ''[[Contemporary Christian Music Magazine]]'' [http://www.ccmmagazine.com/features/3592.aspx] and a performance on [[The View]].

In a February 2007 web chat on her website, Amy discussed a book she is working on entitled "Mosaic": "It’s not an autobiography, but more a collection of memories, song lyrics, poetry and a few pictures." The book is scheduled to release in Fall 2007. In the same web chat, Amy noted that she is "anxious to get back in the studio after the book is finished and reinvent myself as an almost 50 performing woman."

== Trivia ==
{{toomuchtrivia}}
* Grant has appeared on the cover of [[CCM Magazine]] more than any other person, including a special "All Amy" issue.
* [[Michael W. Smith]] and [[MercyMe]] are among the artists who credit Amy at least in part for helping to launch their careers.
* Grant is known for her very successful semi-annual Christmas tour, which is often co-headlined by her husband, [[Vince Gill]]
* "[[Tennessee Christmas]]" is one of the most-covered original Christmas songs of the 20th Century
* [[MercyMe]]'s "[[I Can Only Imagine]]" was originally written for Grant, who revised the lyrics and recorded it as "Imagine". Grant decided to delay her release of the song (which later appeared on "[[Legacy...Hymns and Faith]]") to allow [[MercyMe]] to release it as their own single.
* A platform at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center is named in her honor. Amy raised and/or donated one million dollars to support the center in Nashville, TN. [http://www.gallatinnewsexaminer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060911/ENTERTAINMENT0501/609110375]
* Grant is notable for her very large and dedicated fan base, which are sometimes referred to as "[[Grantheads]]" or "[[Friends of Amy]]."
* Grant was the first [[Christian music]] artist to have a #1 pop song, the first to sell a [[Platinum record]], the first to perform live at the [[Grammys]], and the first to receive a star on the [[Hollywood Walk of Fame]].
* Grant was asked to be one of the lead acts in the original [[VH1 Divas]] concert but turned it down, not wanting to label herself a "[[diva]]".
* Following the [[9/11]] attacks, Grant's "[[I Will Remember You]]" saw a resurgence in popularity as many radio DJs mixed a special tribute version of the song.
* In 2005, Grant released one of the first and most popular [[iTunes Originals]] albums.
* Some [[Christian denominations]] have officially adopted several Amy Grant songs as hymns, including "[[Thy Word]]", "[[El Shaddai (song)|El Shaddai]]" (by Michael Card), "[[Sing Your Praise to the Lord]]", and others.
* Grant's managers reportedly turned down an offer for Grant to play the female lead in a 1990s [[Tom Hanks]] film (rumored to be "[[Sleepless in Seattle]]").
* [[Kevin Costner]] recorded a duet with Grant for his 1997 film, "[[The Postman]]", titled "You Didn't Have To Be So Nice". It plays during the end credits.
* In 1999, CBS aired a primetime Christmas special starring Grant, entitled "Amy Grant: A Christmas To Remember". Artists [[Tony Bennett]], [[98 Degrees]], and [[CeCe Winans]] also appeared to perform with Grant.
* In 2001, Grant won $125,000 for charity on the "Rock Star Edition" of "[[Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?]]".
* Hollywood often recognizes Grant's exceptional [[philanthropy]].
* A particular breed of [[rose]] was bred in the [[United States]] and named the "Amy Grant" after the singer.
* Grant has been a spokesperson for [[Target]] and [[Land O'Lakes]] Butter, among others.
* Grant performed at the [[World Series]] in 2004 and the [[Major League Baseball]] [[All-Star Game]] in 2003.
* Grant shares her birthdate with [[John F. Kennedy, Jr]] - November 25, 1960.

== Popular culture ==
* A 2006 episode of "[[Family Guy]]" parodied "[[Three Wishes]]" and featured an animated Amy Grant.
* [[The Young Fresh Fellows]] wrote a comical song about the singer titled "Amy Grant", which went #1 on [[College Radio]] and remains [[The Young Fresh Fellows]]' biggest hit.
* The 2004 film, "[[Harold & Kumar Go To White Castle]]" features "[[Baby Baby]]" as part of its [[diegetic]] soundtrack.
* A cover of "Baby Baby" by [[Alana D]] plays in the 2005 film "[[Mr. & Mrs. Smith]]".
* The character "[[Rachel Jordan]]" in [[The Simpsons]], lead singer for the Christian rock group "Kovenant", is thought to be a composite of [[Amy Grant]] and [[Sara Evans]].
* The cover for the comic book ''Doctor Strange: Sorcerer Supreme #15'' (March 1990) featured an unauthorized image of Grant, leading to a lawsuit against publisher [[Marvel Comics]] ("Amy Grant Sues Marvel" ''[[The Comics Journal]]'', No. 136, July 1990).
* A day time soap opera played "Our Love" in the backround of a scene.
* A 1995 episode of the sitcom "[[The Nanny]]" (titled "A Kiss Is Just a Kiss") features a storyline in which a record store holds a contest for a kiss from country singer [[Billy Ray Cyrus]]. The record store prominently features promotional displays for Grant's 1994 album, [[House of Love]], in most of the shots.
* A 2002 episode of the sitcom "[[Still Standing]]" (titled "Still Reading") references Amy Grant.
* A 2004 episode of "[[Wonderfalls]]" (titled "Pink Flamingos") references Amy Grant and [[Vince Gill]]'s marriage.
* In a [[Saturday Night Live]] skit, [[John Goodman]]'s character tells [[Cheri Oteri]]'s character that she makes "[[Courtney Love]] look like Amy Grant," a reference to Love's wild antics and Grant's conservative reputation.
* In another [[Saturday Night Live]] skit, [[Cheri Oteri]]'s character talks with [[Chevy Chase]]'s character about Amy Grant and sings part of "[[Lucky One]]". Both skits are available on the [[Best of Cheri Oteri]] DVD.

==Discography==
{{main|Amy Grant discography}}

==References==
* Ruhlmann, William (2005). [http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?p=amg&sql=11:n9x8b5p4tsqe~T1 allmusic ((( Amy Grant > Biography )))]. Retrieved Sept. 21, 2006.

==See also==
* [[CCM Magazine]]
* [[Best selling music artists]]

==External links==
*[http://www.amygrant.com/ Official Amy Grant website]
*[http://www.amy-grant.com/ German/English Amy Grant archive website]
*[http://amygrantchristmas.alegroit.de/ Official Amy Grant Christmas website]
*[http://behindtheeyes.alegroit.de/ Official Amy Grant Behind The Eyes website]
*{{imdb name | id=0004973 | name=Amy Grant}}
*{{amg | id=11:rzadqj1bojja | label=Amy Grant}}

==Overview==

{{Amy Grant}}

[[Category:1960 births|Grant, Amy]]
[[Category:Kappa Alpha Theta sisters|Grant, Amy]]
[[Category:Living people|Grant, Amy]]
[[Category:Christian musicians|Grant, Amy]]
[[Category:American female singers|Grant, Amy]]
[[Category:American pop singers|Grant, Amy]]
[[Category:Amy Grant|Grant, Amy]]
[[Category:People from Augusta, Georgia|Grant, Amy]]
[[Category:Georgia (U.S. state) musicians|Grant, Amy]]
[[Category:American Christians|Grant, Amy]]
[[Category:Hollywood Walk of Fame|Grant, Amy]]
[[Category:Grammy Award winners|Grant, Amy]]
[[Category:Dove Award winners|Grant, Amy]]
[[Category:People from Franklin, Tennessee|Grant Amy]]
[[Category:People from Nashville, Tennessee]]

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[[simple:Amy Grant]]

{{topics}}
* [[El Shaddai]] | [[Thy Word (song)|Thy Word]]

{{opinions}}

{{quotes}}

{{returnto}} [[Song writers]] | [[Christian music]]

CCM Magazine

2007-03-04T17:01:42Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

'''''CCM Magazine''''' is a monthly [[magazine]] published by [[Salem Publishing]], a division of [[Salem Communications]].

It was first published in July 1978. It covers [[Contemporary Christian music]].

In 2001 ''CCM Magazine'' ranked the best albums of the genre; this became the book ''[[CCM Presents: The 100 Greatest Albums in Christian Music]]'' (Harvest House Publishers, 2001) edited by Thom Granger. The top-ranked album was ''[[Lead Me On]]'' by [[Amy Grant]].

[[Amy Grant]] has appeared on the cover of "CCM Magazine" more than any other person. Around the time of her "[[Rock of Ages...Hymns and Faith]]" release and the magazine's 25th anniversary, a special "Amy Issue" of the magazine was released, for which Grant served as the guest editor, chief writer, and primary subject.

==External links==
*[http://www.ccmmagazine.com CCM Magazine]

{{music-publication-stub}}
[[Category:Christian magazines]]
[[Category:Monthly magazines]]
[[Category:Music magazines]]

[[de:CCM Magazine]]

Steve Taylor

2007-03-04T16:57:09Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

{{Infobox musical artist 
| Name = Steve Taylor
| Img = SteveTaylor3.jpg
| Img_capt = Director Steve Taylor
| Img_size = 
| Landscape =
| Background = solo_singer
| Birth_name = Roland Stephen Taylor
| Alias =
| Born = [[December 9]], [[1957]] [[Brawley, California|Brawley]], [[California]]
| Died =
| Origin =
| Instrument =
| Genre =
| Occupation = [[singer]], [[songwriter]], [[record producer]], [[film director]]
| Years_active = 1982 – present
| Label =
| Associated_acts = [[Chagall Guevara]]
| URL =
| Current_members =
| Past_members =
| Notable_instruments =
}}

:''For other people with a similar name, see [[Steven Taylor]].''

'''Roland Stephen Taylor''' (born [[December 9]], [[1957]]) is an American [[singer]], [[songwriter]], [[record producer]] and [[film director]] born in [[Brawley, California|Brawley]], [[California]], and reared in [[Denver, Colorado|Denver]], [[Colorado]].

== Biography ==
Taylor's life took an unusual turn in [[1979]] when he was first of the 100 chosen, from 20,000 applicants, to spend the summer at [[John Davidson (entertainer)|John Davidson]]'s summer camp. At the camp, Taylor spent time learning from singers like [[Tony Orlando]], [[Florence Henderson]], and [[John Davidson (entertainer)|John Davidson]]. Also that year, Taylor heard one of his biggest influences, [[The Clash]]'s ''[[London Calling]]''. "It saved my life, musically," said Taylor.

Taylor recorded a demo of original songs that took the [[Contemporary Christian music]] world by surprise. Taylor first began to write for the musical group [[The Continentals]], then recorded his debut solo project ''[[I Want To Be A Clone]]'' in [[1982]] and released it in January, [[1983]].

Taylor quickly gained a reputation as a "controversial" artist, using his lyrical ability to sharply criticize other Christian beliefs and practices that he believed were incompatible with Biblical Christianity. However, his lyrics would also prove to be quite humorous as well.

In [[1984]], Taylor recorded his first full length album, ''[[Meltdown (Steve Taylor album)|Meltdown]]'' with some of the demo material that was not included on ''Clone'' plus some new material. His video single of the title track, "Meltdown (at [[Madame Tussaud's]])" was widely played on [[MTV]], which was unusual for a [[Christian music|Christian]] artist at the time. The video featured an appearance by actress [[Lisa Whelchel]], from [[NBC]]'s ''[[The Facts of Life (TV series)|The Facts of Life]]'' television series. The album also included the sharp, anti-racist anthem, "We Don't Need No Colour Code", directed in part at [[South Carolina]]'s [[Bob Jones University]] and its anti-interracial dating policy (Bob Jones University abandoned this rule in [[2000]].). "Guilty By Association", one of the recycled demo songs, includes a jab, with an impression in the [[middle eight]], at [[televangelist]] [[Jimmy Swaggart]]: "'It's of a worldly design / God's music should be divine! / Try buying records like mine! / Avoid temptation!' Guilty by association.". Swaggart struck back later by devoting part of a chapter of ''Religious Rock 'N' Roll, a Wolf in Sheep's Clothing'' (ISBN 0-935113-05-3) to Taylor, whom he saw as playing evil rock music.

Taylor followed that release with ''[[On The Fritz]]'', produced by [[Foreigner (band)|Foreigner]]'s [[Ian McDonald (musician)|Ian McDonald]]. ''Fritz'', keeping with Taylor tradition, took aim once again at Religious leaders. This time, his targets included [[Bill Gothard]] ("I Manipulate"), greedy TV evangelists (again) ("You Don't Owe Me Nothing"), politicians using religion or avoiding questions of morality in order to get votes ("It's A Personal Thing"), and public schools teaching "values clarification" to children, asking them to determine who should be thrown overboard in an overcrowded lifeboat ("Lifeboat").

[[Image:IPredict1990.jpg|thumb|200px|left|The Controversial '''''I Predict 1990''''']]
In [[1987]], Taylor once again lived up to his controversial reputation with a song called "I Blew Up The Clinic Real Good". The song criticizes anyone who claims to be a [[pro-life]] activist who would blow up abortion clinics or kill doctors. Like much of his music, it was meant as a [[satire]]. Unfortunately, the point of the song was lost on many and resulted in Taylor's album, ''[[I Predict 1990]]'', being pulled from the shelves at some [[Contemporary Christian Music|Christian]] record stores. Taylor himself would occasionally call those stores to explain the song to them. With ''1990'', Taylor's targets included mainstream Universities ("Since I Gave Up Hope I Feel A Lot Better", featuring fiddle work from [[Papa John Creech]] of [[Jefferson Airplane]] and [[Hot Tuna]]). The video for "Since I Gave Up Hope..." was filmed on the campus of [[Biola University]], a Christian university in Southern California. Other standout tracks included "[[Jim Morrison]]'s Grave", which once again brought Taylor some [[MTV]] exposure, and the [[Flannery O'Connor]] inspired "Harder to Believe Than Not To". Some stores also pulled the album as they thought the cover looked like a [[Tarot]] Card.

Taylor then took a break from music, until [[1990]] when he returned as the lead singer of [[Chagall Guevara]]. The first recording by Chagall Guevara was "Tale o'the Twister," which appeared on the soundtrack to the 1990 film ''[[Pump Up the Volume (film)|Pump Up the Volume]]''. The band released their only album, the self titled ''[[Chagall Guevara (album)|Chagall Guevara]]'', in [[1991]] on [[MCA records]] that year. A follow up album was begun, but due to label restructuring the band was released from its contract.

Taylor returned with another solo album, ''[[Squint (album)|Squint]]'', and a live CD, ''Liver'', in the mid [[1990]]'s. ''Squint'' included the track "Smug", which takes aim equally at both sides of the political spectrum, [[Rush Limbaugh]] and [[Barbra Streisand]], both of which are praised as the masters of smugness. The album also included the song "Cash Cow", which criticizes our money desiring society while giving an additional jab at one more [[televangelist]] ("The golden Cash Cow had a body like the great cows of ancient [[Egypt]]/And a face like the face of [[Robert Tilton]]... without the horns").

A [[tribute album|tribute]] to Taylor entitled ''[[I Predict A Clone]]'' was released in [[1994]], which features performances by [[Sixpence None the Richer]], [[Fleming and John]], [[Starflyer 59]] and others.

In the years following those releases, Taylor focused his efforts on running a [[record label]], [[Squint Entertainment]], and producing projects for other artists, including [[Sixpence None the Richer]]'s self titled [[1997]] release that featured the hit singles "Kiss Me" and a cover of [[The La's]] "There She Goes". He would be most noted for his work with [[Newsboys]]. Squint Entertainment lost its financial backing in [[2001]] and Taylor was forced out of the company.

Taylor is currently working full time as a film maker and has directed [[music videos]] for [[Fleming and John]], [[Rich Mullins]], [[Sixpence None the Richer]], [[Newsboys]], [[Guardian (band)|Guardian]], and two video albums for himself. While still running Squint, Taylor had begun work on a major film project called ''St. Gimp'', co-written with [[Ben Pearson]] and [[Willie Williams (lighting designer)]]. That film was abandoned with the company. He co-wrote and directed the feature film ''[[The Second Chance]]'' starring [[Michael W. Smith]], released [[February 17]], [[2006]]. He also directed the relatively little known Newsboys movie "Down Under The Big Top" in which the band stars.

Taylor appears in the documentary film ''Why Should the Devil Have All the Good Music?'' (released on DVD in 2006), in interview segments and performing part of "We Don't Need No Colour Code".

== Discography ==
* ''[[I Want To Be a Clone]]'', 1982 debut EP
* ''[[Meltdown (Steve Taylor album)|Meltdown]]'', 1983 album
* ''[[On the Fritz]]'', 1985 album
* ''[[I Predict 1990]]'', 1987 album
* ''[[Squint (album)|Squint]]'', 1993 album

===With Chagall Guevara===
* ''[[Chagall Guevara (album)|Chagall Guevara]]'', [[Chagall Guevara]], 1991 album

===Live Albums===
* ''Limelight'', 1986 live album
* ''[[Liver (album)|Liver]]'', 1995 live album

===Compilations===
* ''The Best We Could Find (+3 That Never Escaped)'', 1988 album
* ''Now The Truth Can Be Told'', 1994 two-disc box set
* ''Roaring Lambs'' Various Artists, 2000 compilation (one track by Taylor)

===Video Collections===
* ''Limelight'', 1986 live video
* ''Videoworks'', 1985 video collection
* ''I Predict 1990: The Video Album'', 1987 video collection
* ''Squint: Movies From the Soundtrack'', 1993 video collection
* ''Now The Truth Can Be Told'', 1994 video collection

==Filmography==
{{DirectingFilmography}}
{{Filmography-movie |
Title = [[The Second Chance]] |
Year = 2006
}}
{{Filmography-end}}

== External links ==
*[http://www.renc.igs.net/~adt/qrstuv/ QRSTUV - The Quantitative Roland Stephen Taylor Ubiquitous Volume]
*[http://www.sockheaven.net/ Sock Heaven]
*[http://www.onfritz.com/ On The Fritz] - Includes free album downloads
*[http://www.gweep.ca/~edmonds/music/SteveTaylor/mailing-list.html The steve-taylor Mailing List]
*[http://www.dosswerks.com/andrew/steve_taylor/ Andrew's Steve Taylor Resource]
*[http://listen.to/stevetaylor/ Tale o' the Web Page]
*[http://www.stevetaylor.tk/ The Steve Taylor Resource]
*[http://www.thesecondchancemovie.com/ Official Website for ''The Second Chance'']

[[Category:Living people|Taylor, Steve]]
[[Category:1957 births|Taylor, Steve]]
[[Category:Christian musicians|Taylor, Steve]]
[[Category:People from Nashville|Taylor, Steve]]
[[Category:American songwriters|Taylor, Steve]]

Whitecross

2007-03-01T08:53:28Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

{{dablink|For other uses, including places named Whitecross, see [[Whitecross (disambiguation)]]}}
[[Image:Whitecross.jpg|right|thumb|250px|Whitecross circa 1988. Left-to-right are Jon Sproule, Rex Carroll, Scott Wenzel and Mark Hedl.]]

Whitecross is a [[Christian metal]] band that formed in [[1986]] in [[Chicago]], releasing their first recording the following year. Their early albums, which often invite comparisons to [[Ratt]], are laced with fast, technical [[electric guitar|guitar]] work. With the departure of guitarist [[Rex Carroll]] in [[1992]], the band's sound underwent a drastic change; so much so that many Whitecross fans show a strong preference for either the earlier or later work exclusively.

Whitecross has won three [[Dove Award]]s: two for "Hard music album of the year" with ''Triumphant Return'' (in [[1990]]) and ''In the Kingdom'' (in [[1992]]); and one for "Come unto the Light" from the ''Unveiled'' album, which won "Hard music recorded song of the year" in [[1995]].

In [[1998]], singer Scott Wenzel took a two-year break to do [[missionary|mission]] work in [[South America]], and Whitecross was placed on hiatus. Little happened with the band for seven years, except for a couple of reunion [[gig]]s featuring both Wenzel and Carroll in [[2002]].

In 2005, Scott and Rex reunited to record ''Nineteen Eighty Seven'', which featured re-recordings of nine of the ten songs from their self-titled debut (''You're Mine'' being the exclusion), as well as a re-recording of the song ''Love on the Line'' (previously unavailable on CD) and a new guitar instrumental song by Rex Carroll.

There are plans to record new material for CD release as well as a possibility of Rex doing a guitar solo CD.
==Albums==
===With Rex Carroll===
{| class="wikitable"
!width="20%" align="left"|Cover
!width="40%" align="left"|Album
!width="20%" align="left"|Year
|-
|align="center"|[[Image:NoImage.PNG|150px|]]
|align="left"|'''''Whitecross'''''
|align="center"|[[1987]]
|-
|align="center"|[[Image:NoImage.PNG|150px]]
|align="left"|'''''Love on the Line''''' (EP)
|align="center"|[[1988]]
|-
|align="center"|[[Image:WhitecrossHammerAndNail.jpg|150px]]
|align="left"|'''''Hammer and Nail'''''
|align="center"|[[1988]]
|-
|align="center"|[[Image:WhitecrossTriumphantReturn.jpg|150px]]
|align="left"|'''''Triumphant Return'''''
|align="center"|[[1989]]
|-
|align="center"|[[Image:WhitecrossInTheKingdom.jpg|150px]]
|align="left"|'''''In The Kingdom'''''
|align="center"|[[1991]]
|-
|align="center"|[[Image:WhitecrossHighGear.jpg|150px]]
|align="left"|'''''High Gear'''''
|align="center"|[[1992]]
|-
|align="center"|[[Image:NoImage.PNG|150px]]
|align="left"|'''''To The Limit: The Best of Whitecross'''''
|align="center"|[[1993]]
|-
|align="center"|[[Image:WhitecrossNineteenEightySeven.jpg|150px]]
|align="left"|'''''Nineteen Eighty Seven'''''
|align="center"|[[2005]]
|}

===Without Rex Carroll===
{| class="wikitable"
!width="20%" align="left"|Cover
!width="40%" align="left"|Album
!width="20%" align="left"|Year
|-
|align="center"|[[Image:WhitecrossUnveiled.jpg|150px|]]
|align="left"|'''''Unveiled'''''
|align="center"|[[1994]]
|-
|align="center"|[[Image:WhitecrossEquilibrium.jpg|150px]]
|align="left"|'''''Equilibrium'''''
|align="center"|[[1995]]
|-
|align="center"|[[Image:WhitecrossFlytrap.jpg|150px]]
|align="left"|'''''Flytrap'''''
|align="center"|[[1996]]
|-
|align="center"|[[Image:NoImage.PNG|150px]]
|align="left"|'''''One More Encore'''''
|align="center"|[[1998]]
|}

==Members of Whitecross==
===Current Members===
*Scott Wenzel - [[vocals]]
*Rex Carroll - [[electric guitar|guitar]] ([[1987]] - [[1992]], [[2005]] - present)
*Mike Feighan - [[drums]] ([[1991]] - [[1995]], [[2005]] - present)

===Former members===
====Guitars====
*[[Barry Graul]] ([[MercyMe]]) - [[guitar]] ([[1994]] - [[1995]])
*[[Quinton Gibson]] - [[guitar]] ([[1996]])

====Drums====
*Mark Hedl - [[drummer|drums]] ([[1987]] - [[1988]])
*Mike Elliott - [[drums]] ([[1989]])
*Troy Stone - [[drums]] ([[1996]])

====Bass====
*Jon Sproule - [[bass guitar|bass]] ([[1987]] - [[1988]])
*Rick Armstrong - [[bass guitar|bass]] ([[1989]])
*Butch Dillon - [[bass guitar|bass]] ([[1991]])
*Scott Harper - [[bass guitar|bass]] ([[1992]])
*[[Tracy Ferrie]] - [[bass guitar|bass]] ([[1994]] - [[1995]])
*Brent Denny - [[bass guitar|bass]] ([[1996]])




<table border="1" width="100%" id="table1">
<tr>
<td align="center" bgcolor="#808080"> </td>
<td align="center" width="99" bgcolor="#808080">'''Whitecross'''</td>
<td width="102" align="center" bgcolor="#808080">'''Hammer & Nail'''</td>
<td width="115" align="center" bgcolor="#808080">'''Triumphant Return'''</td>
<td align="center" width="117" bgcolor="#808080">'''In The Kingdom'''</td>
<td align="center" width="117" bgcolor="#808080">'''High Gear'''</td>
<td align="center" width="90" bgcolor="#808080">'''Unveiled'''</td>
<td align="center" width="86" bgcolor="#808080">'''Equilibrium'''</td>
<td align="center" width="100" bgcolor="#808080">'''Flytrap'''</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td bgcolor="#808080">'''Vocals'''</td>
<td width="826" colspan="8">
Scott Wenzel</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td bgcolor="#808080">'''Guitars'''</td>
<td width="550" colspan="5">
Rex Carroll</td>
<td width="182" colspan="2" align="center">Barry Graul</td>
<td width="100">
Quinton Gibson</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td bgcolor="#808080">'''Drums'''</td>
<td width="201" colspan="2" align="center">Mark Hedl</td>
<td width="115" align="center">Mike Elliott</td>
<td width="428" colspan="4" align="center">Mike Feighan</td>
<td width="100">
Troy Stone</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td bgcolor="#808080">'''Bass'''</td>
<td width="201" colspan="2" align="center">Jon Sproule</td>
<td width="115" align="center">Rick Armstrong</td>
<td width="117">
Butch Dillon</td>
<td width="117">
Scott Harper</td>
<td width="182" colspan="2" align="center">Tracy Ferrie</td>
<td width="100">
Brent Denny</td>
</tr>
</table>

==See also==
*[[Contemporary Christian music]]
*[[Hair metal]]
*[[Heavy metal music|Heavy metal]]
*[[Ratt]]

==External links==
*[http://www.whitecrossmusic.com/ Official Whitecross website]
*[http://www.allium-sativum.com/c2k2/Whitecross/content.html Pictures from the reunion gig at Cornerstone 2002]
*[http://www.guitarjams.net/Whitecross.html Interview with Rex Carroll, including reasons for leaving the band]
*[http://rocklinemag.com/interviews.php 2003 Interview with Scott Wenzel in Rockline]
*[http://rockhole.bravepages.com/whitecross.html Whitecross — the best of rock, the worst of rock]
*[http://www.80sretromusic.com/biography/W/whitecross.htm Brief Whitecross biography]

[[Category:Christian metal]]
[[Category:Christian rock groups]]

[[de:Whitecross]]
[[es:Whitecross]]
[[fr:Whitecross]]
[[pt:Whitecross]]

Oz Fox

2007-03-01T08:46:04Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

{{Infobox musical artist | 
| Name = Oz Fox
| Img =
| Img_capt =
| Img_size = 
| Landscape = yes
| Background =
| Birth_name = Richard Alfonso Martínez
| Alias =
| Born =
| Died =
| Origin = [[Image:Flag of the United States.svg|25px]] [[USA]]
| Instrument = [[vocals]], [[guitar]]
| Genre = [[Rock music|Rock]]
| Occupation = singer, guitarist, songwriter, producer
| Years_active = 1984-present
| Label =
| Associated_acts = [[Stryper]] [[Sindizzy]]
| URL = [http://www.ozfox.com/ www.ozfox.com]
}}
'''Oz Fox''' (born '''Richard Alfonso Martinez''') is the lead [[guitarist]] of the [[Christian metal]] band [[Stryper]]. Martinez claimed the name ''Oz Fox'' in honor of [[Ozzy Osbourne]] due to being able to emulate the vocals of the Osbourne while playing [[Black Sabbath]] covers in his pre-Stryper days. He was recruited by the Sweet brothers in [[1983]] to form what would become Stryper. As a founding member of the band, Fox recorded and toured with Stryper until the band's first break up in [[1993]].

Having been influenced by artists from many styles of music including country, Fox's style can best be described as having been heavily influenced by the style pioneered by [[Edward Van Halen]]. In fact, it is a little known fact that Fox would often warm up by playing [[Van Halen]]'s "I'm On Fire" note for note before Stryper shows. He led the trend in LA guitarists to heavily incorporate tapping, sweeping, string skipping and wild tremolo use along with peers such as [[George Lynch (musician)|George Lynch]], [[Warren DeMartini]], [[Jake E. Lee]], [[Mick Mars]], and [[Tony Palacios]]. Fox recorded the majority of the guitar solos with Stryper while additionally providing background vocals for the group. He later took up the main vocal duties for a periord of four months in [[1992]] after founding member [[Michael Sweet]] decided to leave the band and pursue a solo career.

After Stryper, Fox played in several projects, including his own band, [[Sindizzy]] where he played rhythm guitar and sang lead vocals. SinDizzy, which released an album in [[1998]] titled ''He's Not Dead'', included former Stryper bassist [[Tim Gaines]], drummer [[John Bocanegra]] and LA guitarist [[Bobby MacNeil]]. SinDizzy was a departure for Fox as it allowed him to explore his writing and playing from a much different perspective than in his prior work. SinDizzy would be put on hiatus however due to Fox and Gaines being asked to rejoin Stryper for their reunion in [[2003]] in support of the album ''7'' after the widespread accpetance and excitement generated by the first 'Stryper Expo'. Though Gaines would elect to leave the band, Fox, together with brothers Robert and Michael Sweet and new comer bassist [[Tracy Ferrie]], is still recording and touring with the group.

Fox has hosted Rewind on JCTV.

He recently joined the band [[Bloodgood]].

==See also==
* [[Stryper]]
* [[Sindizzy]]
* [[Christian Rock]]

==External links==
*[http://www.ozfox.com OzFox.com]

[[Category:American rock guitarists]]
[[Category:American heavy metal guitarists]]

[[nl:Oz Fox]]
[[no:Oz Fox]]
[[pt:Oz Fox]]

Rex Carroll

2007-03-01T08:43:20Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

'''Rex Carroll''' is a [[Christian metal]] guitarist and was well known for his work in the band [[Whitecross]]. Rex Carroll has also been a part of other famous bands like Fierce Heart, King James and The Rex Carroll Band. He not only appeared as the lead guitarist but also served as songwriter and producer for six U.S. and world tours. His band, Whitecross, won two Dove Awards as Metal Album of the Year.

His playing has been heard on commercials for the Milwaukee Bucks, and he was recently a soloist featured at the Harley-Davidson 100th anniversary celebration. In June, 2004, he place third in the North American Rock Guitar Competition sponsored by [[Guitar Player]] magazine and WNED/New York. Rex holds a Bachelors degree in classical guitar performance from Northern Illinois University.

[[Category:Christian musicians|Carroll, Rex]]
[[Category:American heavy metal guitarists|Carroll, Rex]]

{{US-guitarist-stub}}

Robert Sweet

2007-03-01T08:42:12Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

{{Infobox musical artist | 
| Name = Robert Sweet
| Img =
| Img_capt =
| Img_size = 
| Landscape = yes
| Background =
| Birth_name = Robert Lee Sweet
| Alias =
| Born = {{Birth date and age|1960|3|21}}
| Died =
| Origin = [[Image:Flag of the United States.svg|25px]] [[USA]]
| Instrument = [[vocals]], [[drums]]
| Genre = [[Rock music|Rock]]
| Occupation = drummer, producer
| Years_active = 1984-present
| Label =
| Associated_acts = [[Stryper]] [[King James (band)|King James]] [[Blissed (band)|Blissed]]
| URL = [http://www.stryper.com www.stryper.com]
}}
'''Robert Lee Sweet''' (born [[March 21]], [[1960]] in [[Lynwood, California]]) is the [[drummer]] of the [[Christian Metal]] band [[Stryper]]. He and his brother [[Michael Sweet|Michael]], originally founded the band as 'Roxx' or 'Roxx Regime'. Robert became known as the "Visual Time Keeper" for his wild drumming and eye captivating drum kits. (Unlike most drummers, Sweet faces to stage left or right while playing, not straight ahead, so that the audience can see him and not have their view of him obscured by his drumkit.) Sweet also played a key role in the visual direction of the band itself as well as being a significant contributor to the group.

After Stryper broke up in [[1992]], Sweet went on to play in a variety of different acts and projects largely Christian-oriented ([[King James (band)|King James]] with former Stryper bassist [[Tim Gaines]] and former [[Whitecross]] guitarist [[Rex Caroll]]), to studio spots in projects such as [[Shameless]] and [[Titannic]] to name a few. Sweet went on to record a solo album titled ''Love Trash'' which demonstrated an eclectic side of his writing and performing capabilities. Later, Sweet co-founded [[Blissed (band)|Blissed]].

Sweet played a key role in the reappearance of Stryper by taking part in [[2000]]'s "Stryper Expo" and a reunion show in [[Costa Rica]]. The successful reception led Sweet to push for a reunion of the band which came in the form of a request by [[Hollywood Records]] for a new ''Best of'' collection. The band decided that rather than simply doing another compilation, that they would record two new songs and then tour behind it. [[2003]] saw Sweet tour with a re-formed Stryper. In [[2004]], Stryper returned to the studio to begin working on their new release ''[[Reborn (album)|Reborn]]''. Sweet is currently working with the group on a follow-up release, tentatively due sometime in 2007.

==Discography (except Stryper)==
*''King James'' (1994)
*''Love Trash'' (1998)
*''Blissed, Waking Up The Dead'' (2002)
Other bands include dbeality, Final Axe, and The Seventh Power.

==See also==
* [[Stryper]]
* [[King James (band)]]

==External links==
*[http://www.newreleasetuesday.com/features/interview_blissed.shtml Interview with NewReleaseTuesday.com]

[[Category:1960 births|Sweet]]
[[Category:Living people|Sweet]]
[[Category:American drummers|Sweet]]

{{drummer-stub}}

[[nl:Robert Sweet]]
[[no:Robert Sweet]]

Michael Sweet

2007-03-01T08:41:21Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

{{Infobox musical artist | 
| Name = Michael Sweet
| Img =
| Img_capt =
| Img_size = 
| Landscape = yes
| Background =
| Birth_name = Michael Harrison Sweet
| Alias =
| Born = {{Birth date and age|1963|7|4}}
| Died =
| Origin = [[Image:Flag of the United States.svg|25px]] [[USA]]
| Instrument = [[vocals]], [[guitar]], [[piano]]
| Genre = [[Rock music|Rock]]
| Occupation = singer, guitarist, songwriter, producer
| Years_active = 1984-present
| Label =
| Associated_acts = [[Stryper]]
| URL = [http://www.michaelsweet.com www.michaelsweet.com]
}}
'''Michael Harrison Sweet''' (born [[4 July]], [[1963]]) is a [[Christian rock]] singer from the [[United States]]. Sweet is best known as co-founder, writer and [[frontman]] of the [[Christian metal]] band [[Stryper]]. His brother, [[Robert Sweet]] is the [[drummer]] of the band.

==Biography==
===Youth===
His voice has a range of about 3 and a half octaves. He began his musical career at age 5 playing [[guitar]] and at age 12 he began to sing. Sweet also learned to play the [[drums]], [[piano]] and [[bass guitar]].

===Stryper===
:''Main article: [[Stryper]]''

In the early 80s, Sweet and his brother started a band called '''Roxx Regime''' and started playing in small venues. This band would later became '''[[Stryper]]'''. The band challenged the stereotype of [[heavy metal]] being satanic and took [[Christian rock]] fully into mainstream.

With the band, Sweet recorded five succesful studio albums that reached gold and platinum status and won him many awards, plus worldwide fame. However, in the early [[90s]], rock music was facing serious shifts in itself and the band fell into a steep decline.

===Solo===
After 11 years as frontman of Stryper, Sweet decided to leave the band in [[1992]] in order to pursue a solo career. He first released a demo album titled ''[[Unstryped]]'' which featured several songs that were allegedly intended to be songs for the band. Sweet later featured some of this in his first full-length album.

His [[Michael Sweet (album)|self-titled debut album]] was released in [[1994]] and sold over 250,000 copies. He followed it with a slightly softer album titled ''[[Real (album)|Real]]'' in [[1996]] which garnered him a nomination for a [[Dove Award]]. However, he left the Benson label with which he had released those two albums.

During this time, Sweet and his wife moved to [[Massachusetts]], where Sweet worked as a park ranger in his father-in-law campground called ''Maple Park''.

In [[1998]], he released an independent demo album titled ''[[Truth (demo version)|Truth]]'' which received critical acclaim. He was signed to [[Restless Records]] and re-released the album in [[2000]] with a new song-list and new artwork (see ''[[Truth (2000 version)|Truth]]'').

===Stryper Reunited===
In [[1999]], Sweet reunited with former Stryper friends, Oz Fox and Tim Gaines during a concert in [[Puerto Rico]]. The concert featured Fox and Gaines' band at the moment, [[Sindizzy]], while Sweet was invited as a solo artist. The three of them got together for a brief set of four songs that showed that they still had the same intenstity as before. The next year, the first [[Stryper Expo]] was held in [[New Jersey]] and the whole line-up was reunited again.

The band has continued to work together releasing a new album titled ''[[Reborn (album)|Reborn]]'' in [[2005]]. However, Michael has continued with his solo career as well. In [[August 1]], [[2006]], he released a new solo album titled ''[[Him (album)|Him]]''. The album features traditional [[hymns]] re-written and arranged by Sweet.

==Solo Discography==
<gallery>
Image:Msweet-unstryped.jpg|<center>'''''[[Unstryped]]''''' ([[EP]])<center>[[1992]]
Image:Michael Sweet - Self-titled.jpg|<center>'''''[[Michael Sweet (album)|Michael Sweet]]'''''<center>[[July 26]], [[1994]]
Image:Michael Sweet - Real.jpg|<center>'''''[[Real (album)|Real]]'''''<center>[[October]], [[1995]]
Image:Msweet-truth.jpg|<center>'''''[[Truth (demo version)|Truth]]''''' ([[demo]])<center>[[1998]]
Image:Msweet-truth2.jpg|<center>'''''[[Truth (2000 version)|Truth]]''''' (official release)<center>[[2000]]
Image:Msweet-him.jpg|<center>'''''[[Him (album)|Him]]'''''<center>[[2006]]
</gallery>

===Guest Appearances===
*''[[Mu5tard]] - Electra Glide''
*''Longday - An Explanation For My Behavior''
*''Mars Hill - Sink or Swim'' (2003)
*''[[Michael W. Smith]]''
*''[[Guardian (band)|Guardian]]''
*''[[DC Talk]]''

===Projects Produced===
*''[[Mu5tard]] - Electra Glide''
*''Longday - An Explanation For My Behavior''
*''Mars Hill - Sink or Swim'' (2003)
*''Savannah - Forever's Come and Gone"

==See also==
* [[Stryper]]

==External links==
* [http://www.stryper.com Stryper Official Site]
* [http://www.michaelsweet.com Michael Sweet Official Site]
* [http://www.stryperforum.com]
* [http://www.michaelsweetentertainment.com]
* [http://www.cmspin.com/newsmanager/anmviewer.asp?a=3963&z=51 Michael Sweet's Testimony at CMSpin]
* [http://www.newsongonline.org/michaelsweet.htm Michael Sweet Interview]

[[Category:1963 births|Sweet, Michael]]
[[Category:American rock singers|Sweet, Michael]]
[[Category:Christian musicians|Sweet, Michael]]
[[Category:Living people|Sweet, Michael]]

[[nl:Michael Sweet]]
[[no:Michael Sweet]]
[[pt:Michael Sweet]]

Stryper

2007-03-01T08:39:11Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

{{Infobox musical artist
| Name = [[Image:Stryper_logo.png|250px]]
| Img = Stryperband.jpg
| Img_capt = The classic Stryper lineup
| Background = group_or_band
| Years_active = 1982 - 1993 2003-present
| Genre = [[Heavy metal]][[Glam metal]][[Christian metal]]
| Origin = [[United States]]
| Label = [[Enigma Records|Enigma]][[Hollywood Records|Hollywood]] [[Big 3 Records|Big3]]
| Current_members = [[Michael Sweet]][[Robert Sweet (musician)|Robert Sweet]][[Tracy Ferrie]][[Oz Fox]]
| Past_members = [[Tim Gaines]]
| URL = [http://www.stryper.com Stryper.com]
}}
'''Stryper''' is a [[Christian metal]] band from [[Orange County, California]], [[United States|USA]]. Formed in [[1983]], they are pioneers in the [[mainstream]] popularization of [[Christian rock]] music.<ref name="Hale_93">{{cite book |last=Hale |first=Mark |title=Headbangers |year=1993 |publisher=Popular Culture, Ink. |location=[[Ann Arbor, Michigan|Ann Arbor]], [[Michigan]] |edition=First edition, second printing |isbn=1-56075-029-4 |chapter=2869 |pages=336}}</ref> Stryper enjoyed great success during the late [[1980s]] before breaking up in 1992, when most metal groups of the 1980s lost popularity. However, the band reunited in [[2003]] and are attempting a comeback in the [[Christian music]] world.

The name "Stryper" derives from the [[King James Version]] of [[Book of Isaiah|Isaiah]] 53:5:

''"But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his '''stripes''' we are healed."''[http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=isaiah%2053:5;&version=9; ]

The scriptural reference is also part of Stryper's logo on most of their releases. (They also incorporate stripes into most of their outfits and their logo.) In addition, the band's name has been said to stand for:

"'''S'''alvation
'''T'''hrough
'''R'''edemption,
'''Y'''ielding
'''P'''eace,
'''E'''ncouragement,
and
'''R'''ighteousness."[http://www.stryper.info/index.php?ref=history]

==History==
===Foundation and mainstream success===
Stryper was originally known as '''Roxx Regime''' and comprised brothers [[Michael Sweet]] on lead vocals and guitar and [[Robert Sweet (musician)|Robert Sweet]] on drums as well as [[Oz Fox]] on lead guitar. The name "Stryper" was adopted when bassist [[Tim Gaines]] joined the band, and shortly afterward, they released the [[Extended play|EP]] ''[[The Yellow and Black Attack]]'' on July 10, [[1984]]. During this period, Stryper opened for bands like [[Ratt]] and [[Bon Jovi]], leading some music critics to claim that they were not a true Christian band. Stryper's first full-length album, ''[[Soldiers Under Command]]'' released on May 15, 1985, was the band's first [[Music recording sales certification|gold record]], selling more than half a million copies. Capitalizing on this unexpected success and in an attempt to make up for the EP's extremely limited release (less than 20,000 copies), their record label, [[Enigma Records|Enigma]], re-released ''The Yellow and Black Attack'' on August 10, [[1986]] with two new tracks and new cover artwork.

[[Image:Reason For The Season.jpg|thumb|200px|right|Reason For The Season Single.]]
Stryper's third album, ''[[To Hell with the Devil]]'', was released on October 24, 1986 and went platinum, selling more than 2 million copies. In addition to being Stryper's most successful record, it was both the first [[contemporary Christian music]] and [[Christian metal]] album to achieve this feat. "Calling On You", "Free" and "Honestly" were hugely popular [[MTV]] hits in 1987--so much so, that "Honestly" became the most-requested song on MTV <ref name="Erickson_Sturdevant_06">{{cite book |last=Erickson, Sturdevant |title=Stryper: Loud n' Clear |year=2006 |publisher=Classic CD Books |location=[[Maryland]] |edition=unabridged audio |isbn=0976480549 }}</ref> and Stryper's best-known song. Bassist Tim Gaines did not participate in the recording of this album, and for a period of time prior to the release of the record he was replaced by another bass player, Brad Cobb. <ref name="Erickson_Sturdevant_06"/> However, when the promotional photos for the album were being shot, Gaines decided to return to the band and participated in its successful world tour. In 1987 the band headlined the [[Dynamo Open Air Festival]] in the [[Netherlands]].<ref name="Hale_93"/>

Their next album, ''[[In God We Trust (album)|In God We Trust]]'', released on June 28, 1988, also went gold, and the song "Always There for You" briefly entered the lower levels of the pop charts. However, the sound of the album was more [[Pop music|pop]]-oriented than previous releases and a number of critics, as well as Stryper fans, criticized the songs as being too commercial and over-produced. In addition, the image of the band was moving closer to the [[glam metal]] look of the era, giving fans something else to criticize. As with the previous album, Tim Gaines did not participate in the recording of ''In God We Trust'' and Brad Cobb once again played bass, but later Tim Gaines rejoined the group for another world tour.

===Decline===
On August 21, [[1990]], Stryper released the controversial album ''[[Against the Law (album)|Against the Law]]'', which drastically changed the band's image and lyrical message. While their earlier albums all had yellow and black colors in the covers and the lyrics spoke of God and [[Salvation#Christian views of salvation|salvation]], ''Against the Law'' featured the band with black leather clothes and with no mention of the word "[[God]]" in the lyrics at all.<ref name="Hale_93"/> The band's musical sound was also heavier, closer to [[classic metal]]. Drummer Robert Sweet said that the change of image and sound was in response to the criticism of the previous album and an attempt to leave behind their [[glam metal]] image. But the band's original fan base claimed that they were not being true to their roots,{{Fact|date=January 2007}} and the album sold poorly. Part of that were some rumors in the press (both mainstream and Christian) that Stryper was not only playing music which was becoming more mainstream, but also becoming less committed as Christians and caught up too much into the Rock and Roll lifestyle.{{Fact|date=January 2007}} However, many critics considered the album to be Stryper's best musical production to date.{{Fact|date=January 2007}}

On July 20, [[1991]], after being signed to [[Hollywood Records]], Stryper released a greatest hits collection called ''[[Can't Stop the Rock]]'', which featured two new songs. The band continued to tour until [[February 1992]], when [[frontman]] Michael Sweet departed the band in order to pursue a solo career.

Stryper continued as a trio for several European dates, with Oz Fox doing lead vocals. However, upon returning to the United States, the remaining members decided to go their separate ways.

Oz Fox and Tim Gaines formed their own band, [[Sindizzy]], and released the album ''He's Not Dead'' in [[1998]]. During the 1990s, Michael Sweet released four solo albums which performed well in the [[Christian music]] market. Drummer Robert Sweet played in several bands, among them [[Blissed]], who released an album in [[2002]].
Other bands include [[King James]], dbeality, Final Axe, and The Seventh Power.

===Reunion===
The former members of Stryper first reunited in [[1999]], when Michael Sweet and Sindizzy were invited to play at a summer [[rock festival]] in [[Puerto Rico]]. As an [[encore (concert)|encore]], Sweet joined Oz Fox and Tim Gaines on stage and played several Stryper songs. Later, in [[2000]], the first "Stryper Expo" was held in [[New Jersey]], and for the first time in 8 years the complete line-up of Stryper took the stage. That same year, a concert was held in [[Costa Rica]] at which the four members played together. A second "Stryper Expo" took place in [[Los Angeles]] in [[2001]].

When Hollywood Records asked the former members of Stryper to record tracks for a new [[greatest hits]] compilation in [[2003]] ''[[Seven: the Best of Stryper]]'' which also had 2 new songs, "Something" and "For You". A tour followed in support. The band played 36 shows in the United States and finished the tour in [[San Juan, Puerto Rico]]. A live album, titled ''[[7 Weeks: Live in America, 2004]]'', was released the following year, and the concert in Puerto Rico was filmed for a live [[DVD]]. However, that show in Puerto Rico proved to be the last for the original line-up of Stryper. Tim left the band in 2004 before they were slated to play Disney's Night of Joy In Orlando. Michael's bassist on his previous solo tours, Tracy Ferrie replaced him.

After the Night of Joy show and with new found energy Stryper decided to go back into the studio to record a new CD. Reborn and another tour followed in the fall of 2004.

Despite their reunion, controversy continued to follow the band. In December 2004, Stryper was scheduled to play in Mexico City at the [[Palacio de los Deportes]]. The band cancelled the show, which led to a major disagreement between the band and the promoter. Stryper and their management claimed the promoter was too inexperienced to stage an event of this magnitude, but a group of well-known Christian rock bands, including [[Saviour Machine]], [[Narnia (band)|Narnia]] and [[Mortification (band)|Mortification]], sided with the promoter. The promoter demanded that Stryper return all the money they had received related to their appearance, but the band refused. Later, Stryper began selling items on their website in part to refund this promoter.

Stryper's latest album, ''[[Reborn (album)|Reborn]]'', was released on August 16, [[2005]], and was the band's first recording of original material in 15 years. The new album received a positive response from fans and critics, some of whom labeled ''Reborn'' as one of the best albums of that year [http://msnbc.msn.com/id/10709926/page/2/ (2)]. With a more modern sound incorporating aspects of [[Alternative rock|alternative]] and [[grunge]], along with fewer guitar solos, the new record updates their style while keeping the Stryper identity. The lyrics also have returned to the band's familiar themes of God and salvation.

In 2006, the band released the DVD ''[[Greatest Hits: Live in Puerto Rico]]'' after two years in production.

In November of 2006, Stryper announced new management. They also announced a follow up to Reborn tentatively due in Spring/Summer 07.

==Legacy==
Stryper is recognized as the first openly Christian heavy metal band to gain recognition in the mainstream music world.<ref name="Hale_93"/> Their hit ballad "Honestly" is often ranked among the greatest ballads of the 1980s. Their message of salvation and religion has also made them popular with some elements of the media.

However, Stryper has not been free of controversy. Many conservative religious groups criticized the group for being members of the heavy metal industry, which some of them saw as being close to [[Satanic]] music. Many of their peers in the metal music world recognized them as a great musical group, but some argued that their message was incompatible with heavy metal.{{Fact|date=January 2007}} In fact, this argument is generally used in [[pop culture]] when referring to the music of Stryper.{{Fact|date=January 2007}} Stryper has sold over 8 million recordings worldwide. <ref name="Erickson_Sturdevant_06"/>

==Current members==
*[[Michael Sweet]] - guitars and vocals (1983 - 1992, 2003 - present)
*[[Oz Fox]] - lead guitars (1983 - 1992, 2003 - present)
*[[Robert Sweet (musician)|Robert Sweet]] - drums, "Visual Time Keeper" (1983 - 1992, 2003 - present)
*[[Tracy Ferrie]] - bass (2004 - present)

===Past members===
*[[Tim Gaines]] - bass (1983 - 1992, 2003 - 2004)

==Discography==
===Studio Albums===
<gallery>
Image:Stryper-TYABA1984.jpg|<center>'''''[[The Yellow and Black Attack]]''''' ([[EP]])<center>[[July 10]], [[1984]]
Image:Soldiersundercommand.jpg|<center>'''''[[Soldiers Under Command]]'''''<center>[[May 15]], [[1985]]<center>'''Certified:''' US - Platinum
Image:Yellowandblack.jpg|<center>'''''[[The Yellow and Black Attack]]''''' (re-release)<center>[[August 10]], [[1986]]
Image:Album-thwtd.jpg|<center>'''''[[To Hell with the Devil]]'''''<center>[[October 24]], [[1986]]<center>'''Certified:''' US - Platinum
Image:Ingodwetrustsmall.jpg|<center>'''''[[In God We Trust (album)|In God We Trust]]'''''<center>[[June 28]], [[1988]]<center>'''Certified:''' US - Gold
Image:Stryper-ATL.jpg|<center>'''''[[Against the Law (album)|Against the Law]]'''''<center>[[August 21]], [[1990]]
Image:Rebornstryper.jpg|<center>'''''[[Reborn (album)|Reborn]]'''''<center>[[August 16]], [[2005]]
</gallery>

===Live Albums===
<gallery>
Image:Livealbumstryper.jpg|<center>'''''[[7 Weeks: Live in America, 2003]]'''''<center>[[May 18]], [[2004]]
</gallery>

===Compilations===
<gallery>
Image:Cantstoptherock.jpg|<center>'''''[[Can't Stop the Rock]]'''''<center>[[July 20]], [[1991]]
Image:Sevenstryper.jpg|<center>'''''[[Seven: the Best of Stryper]]'''''<center>[[March 26]], [[2003]]
Image:Stryper - Extended Versions.jpg|<center>'''''[[Extended Versions (Stryper album)|Extended Versions]]'''''<center>[[October 31]], [[2006]]
</gallery>

==Home videos==
* ''[[Stryper Live in Japan|Live in Japan]]'' (1985)
* ''[[Stryper In The Beginning|In The Beginning]]'' (1987)
* ''[[Stryper Expo 2000|Stryper Expo]]'' (2000)
* ''[[Stryper Expo II: West Side Story]]'' (2001)
* ''[[Stryper Greatest Hits: Live in Puerto Rico|Greatest Hits: Live in Puerto Rico]]'' (2006)

==References==
<div class="references-small"><references/></div>

==External links==
*[http://www.stryper.com Official Homepage]
*[http://80srockvideos.blogspot.com/2006/04/stryper-calling-on-you.html Stryper - Calling on You] Music Video
*[http://www.myspace.com/stryper Stryper] at [[MySpace]]
*[http://www.metal-archives.com/band.php?id=81757 Stryper] at [[Metal Archives]]

[[Category:Glam metal groups]]
[[Category:Christian rock groups]]
[[Category:Christian metal groups]]
[[Category:Reunited musical groups]]
[[Category:Heavy metal musical groups]]
[[Category:American heavy metal musical groups]]
[[Category:California heavy metal musical groups]]
[[Category:1980s music groups]]
[[Category:American musical groups]]

[[de:Stryper]]
[[es:Stryper]]
[[fr:Stryper]]
[[id:Stryper]]
[[it:Stryper]]
[[nl:Stryper]]
[[ja:ストライパー]]
[[no:Stryper]]
[[pt:Stryper]]
[[fi:Stryper]]
[[sv:Stryper]]

HM Magazine

2007-03-01T08:36:29Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

{{Infobox Magazine|
title = HM: The Hard Music Magazine |
image_file = HM_Magazine.gif |
image_size = 200px |
image_caption = ''HM Magazine'', Issue #117, Jan/Feb 2006 |
editor = Doug Van Pelt |
frequency = [[Bimonthly]] |
category = [[Christian metal]] |
company = HM |
firstdate = Summer 1985 |
country = {{flag|United States}} |
language = [[American English]] |
website = [http://www.hmmagazine.com hmmagazine.com] |
issn = 1066-6923 |
}}

'''''HM: The Hard Music Magazine''''' is an American bimonthly publication focusing on both [[Christianity]] and [[hard rock]]. Articles include news, reviews and interviews with Christian artists. The recurring "So and So Sez" interviews focus on artists who are often are not Christians who play in secular bands, in order to discuss their music, upcoming tours, albums, and to determine their views on [[Jesus Christ]] and other spiritual matters.

== History ==
[[Image:HeavensMetlCover.jpg|left|thumb|180px|Heaven's Metal Fanzine]]
[[Doug Van Pelt]] began the publication in the summer of [[1985]] under the name ''Heaven's Metal''. The name was changed to ''HM Magazine'' in [[1995]], where the HM can also represent "Hard Music". Despite name and format changes over its history, the magazine's spiritual focus remains identifiably Christian, as it follows both the [[Christian Rock]] and the [[Christian Metal]] movement.

On [[October 2004]], Van Pelt brought back the ''Heaven's Metal'' name by starting a new [[fanzine]] under that title. Christianity and hard music are also themes of this venture, but produced in a smaller, less formal format. The ''Heaven's Metal'' fanzine also focuses on the more tradional styles of heavy metal and bands that are not as mainstream as those featured in the ''HM Magazine''. The ''Heaven's Metal'' fanzine is released between issues of the primary ''HM Magazine''.

Van Pelt currently remains the editor and publisher of both the ''HM Magazine'' and ''Heaven's Metal Fanzine''.

== External links ==
* [http://www.hmmagazine.com HM Magazine (official)]
* [http://weeklywire.com/ww/08-07-00/austin_music_feature2.html Austin Chronicle: HM Editor/Publisher Doug Van Pelt's Hard-Rocking Christian Empire] [[7 August]] [[2000]]
* [http://www.tollbooth.org/news/oct4.html Phantom Tollbooth: Heaven's Metal Re-launches As A Fanzine] [[4 October]] [[2004]]

{{culture-mag-stub}}

[[Category:1985 establishments|HM Magazine]]
[[Category:Christian magazines|HM Magazine]]
[[Category:Christian metal|HM Magazine]]
[[Category:American magazines|HM Magazine]]

Tourniquet (band)

2007-03-01T08:34:11Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

{{Infobox musical artist
| Name = [[Image:Tourniquetlogo.jpg|220px]]
| Img = Tourniquetbandpic.JPG|
| Img_capt = from left to right: Ted Kirkpatrick, Aaron Guerra, Steve Andino, Luke Easter
| Img_size =
| Background = group_or_band
| Origin = [[Los Angeles]], [[California]], [[USA]] {{flagicon|USA}}
| Genre = [[Thrash metal]] [[Progressive metal]] [[Neo-classical metal]][[Christian metal]] 
| Years_active = 1989 - present
| Label = [[Metal Blade Records]]
| URL = [http://tourniquet.net/home/index.php Official Website]
| Current_members = [[Ted Kirkpatrick]][Luke Easter]][[Steve Andino]] [[Aaron Guerra]]
| Past_members = [[Gary Lenaire]]Guy Ritter Victor Macias Erik Mendez Vince Dennis
}}

:''For other uses, see [[Tourniquet (disambiguation)]].''

'''Tourniquet''' is a [[Christian metal|Christian]] [[thrash metal]] band from the [[USA]], named after the medical device called a [[tourniquet]], based out of Los Angeles, California. The current members of Tourniquet are [[Ted Kirkpatrick]] (drums), [[Luke Easter (musician)|Luke Easter]] (vocals), [[Steve Andino]] (bass) and [[Aaron Guerra]] (guitar, vocals) [http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/3147/]. One of the bands trademarks is the incorporation of classical music into their guitar riffs. The band's latest release, ''[[Where Moth and Rust Destroy]]'', features special guests [[Marty Friedman (guitarist)|Marty Friedman]], formerly of [[Megadeth]], and [[Bruce Franklin (guitarist)|Bruce Franklin]], formerly of [[Trouble (band)|Trouble]], on lead guitar.

== History ==
Tourniquet was formed in Los Angeles in 1989 by [[Gary Lenaire]], [[Guy Ritter]], and [[Ted Kirkpatrick]]. Tourniquet has been the recipient of numerous awards and accolades, including [[HM Magazine]]'s Favorite Band, two CCM magazine #1 Rock Singles, many #1 Metal Singles, and six Dove Award nominations. They have appeared in a number of magazine, newspaper, and online publications.

== Discography ==
=== Albums ===

* ''[[Stop the Bleeding]]'' (1990)
* ''[[Psycho Surgery]]'' (1991) (2001 rerelease titled ''Psychosurgery'')
* ''[[Pathogenic Ocular Dissonance]]'' (1992)
* ''[[Intense Live Series, Vol. 2]]'' (1993) (also known as ''Recorded Live, Vol. 2'')
* ''[[Vanishing Lessons]]'' (1994)
* ''[[Carry the Wounded]]'' (1995)
* ''[[The Collected Works of Tourniquet]]'' (1996)
* ''[[Crawl to China]]'' (1997)
* ''[[Acoustic Archives]]'' (1998)
* ''[[Microscopic View of a Telescopic Realm]]'' (2000)
* ''[[Where Moth and Rust Destroy]]'' (2003)

=== Videos ===
* ''[[Ark of Suffering]]'' (1991) - Music Video
* ''[[Video Biopsy]]'' (1992) - VHS
* ''[[Pushin' Broom Video]]'' (1995) - VHS
* ''[[The Unreleased Drum Solos of Ted Kirkpatrick]]'' (1997) - VHS
* ''[[Guitar Instructional Video]]'' (1998) - VHS
* ''[[Tourniquet Live in California]]'' (1998) - VHS
* ''[[Video Biopsy (re-release)]]'' (2000) - VHS
* ''[[Circadian Rhythms - The Drumming World of Ted Kirkpatrick]]'' (2003) - DVD
* ''[[Ocular Digital]]'' (2003) - DVD
* ''[[Till Sverige Med Kärlek]] (To Sweden With Love)'' (2006) - DVD

== See also ==
*[[Echo Hollow]]
*[[Christian Metal]]
*[[List of rock instrumentals]]
*[[Instrumental rock]]

== External links ==
* [http://www.tourniquet.net Official Tourniquet Website]
* [http://www.tourniquetdz.net Official Tourniquet Discussion Zone]
* [http://www.myspace.com/tourniquetrocks Tourniquet] at [[MySpace]]
* {{musicbrainz artist|id=0770a42f-10e3-4204-8459-0c6fba885852|name=Tourniquet}}
* [http://www.firestream.net/fs_rate.php?go=showcat&cat_id=19 Tourniquet at Firestream.net]
* [http://www.metal-archives.com/band.php?id=958 Tourniquet] at [[Metal Archives]]

[[Category:Christian metal groups]]
[[Category:Progressive metal musical groups]]
[[Category:Thrash metal musical groups]]
[[Category:Metal Blade Records artists]]
[[Category:Bands with only one constant member]]
[[Category:California heavy metal musical groups]]
[[Category:American heavy metal musical groups]]

[[de:Tourniquet (Band)]]
[[pt:Tourniquet]]

GMA Dove Awards

2007-03-01T08:31:44Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

The '''Gospel Music Association Dove Awards''' (shortened to '''GMA Dove Awards'''), known as the '''GMA Music Awards''' from 2004-2006, and a few years before but better known even then as the '''Dove Awards''', were created in [[1969]] by the [[Gospel Music Association]] to honor the outstanding achievements in [[contemporary Christian]] and [[gospel music]]. They are held annually in [[Nashville, Tennessee|Nashville]], [[Tennessee]].

Awards are presented honoring a wide variety of musical styles, reflecting the diversity represented in [[Christian pop]] music, including [[Christian hip hop]], [[Christian rap]], [[Christian metal]], [[Christian punk]], [[Christian rock]], [[Christian worship music]], [[Christian soft rock]] ([[Contemporary Christian music]]), and [[Christian pop rock]]. Each award features performances by a number of the industry's newest and most popular artists including [[Rebecca St. James]], [[Bethany Dillon]], and [[Kirk Franklin]]. The 38th Annual GMA Dove Awards will be presented on Wednesday, April 25, 2007.

==Location==
Until 1978, the GMA Dove Awards were held in September, during the [[National Quartet Convention]]. The Awards were not held in 1979 (except for the GMA Hall of Fame) as they were moved to April 1980, for Gospel Music Week, where it has been held annually except in 1999, when the GMA Dove Awards were moved to late March separate from GMA Week.

==Issues and criticisms==
Some critics argue that the GMA Dove Award voters tend to be musically conservative and biased in favor of traditional gospel and pop artists over other genres. Another common criticism is that most GMA Dove Awards tend to go to either well-established acts that receive heavy radio airplay, or those which fall into the aforementioned categories. Evidence for such claims includes the fact that [[Steven Curtis Chapman]] won the "Songwriter of the Year" award 9 out of 10 years and "Male Vocalist of the Year" 7 of 12 years, with some of those wins coming in years when he released no new material.

Since the voters are all GMA members and usually work in the industry, critics charge they would more than likely tend to vote for whichever bands have the most "buzz" at the moment or are associated with their area of the industry, as with most award voterships. Supporters of the GMA contend that this is likely less prevalent than in secular awards due to Christians allegedly placing a high value on "ethical" behavior. [http://www.lionofzion.com/faq/78da33320700009d006a/The+CCM+Industry.html]

===The 1971 voting scandal===
An indication that gospel music was fast approaching professionalism was a bona fide scandal over the 1971 GMA's Dove Awards. The incident involved one of gospel music's premier groups, the [[Blackwood Brothers]], who had captured nine out of fourteen awards. They were accused of having conducted an extensive campaign to enlist new members to the GMA and to encourage members to vote for particular award nominees in the Dove Award balloting. Though no specific bylaw of the organization had been broken, the tactic created an industrywide concern over "voting irregularities and ethical ballot influence and solicitation." The GMA Board voted to nullify the entire process, thereby invalidating all the awards that had been presented at the October 8, 1971 banquet held in Nashville, in which the [[GMA]] formed a committee to adjust the voting process with "safeguards to prevent any future irregularities in Dove Awards balloting." [[James Blackwood]] issued a statement in support of the organization's decision and strongly urged all other participants in the Dove Awards to subscribe and adhere to the code of ethics to be set forth by the [[Gospel Music Association]].

===The Michael English scandal===
Shortly after the 1994 show, Male Vocalist winner [[Michael English]] admitted to an extramaritial affair with Marabeth Jordon, a member of former Group winner First Call. Although English returned his awards to the GMA after news of his affair became public the week following the awards presentation, the GMA declined to reissue his awards to another winner. English's name remained on the winner's list against his stated wishes.

===Definition of Gospel Music===
In 1998, the GMA, concerned over some blatantly secular entries in their categories, enacted a new Definition of Gospel Music, intended to strengthen standards they felt too weak. Prior to the Definition of Gospel Music, the only qualified music was that sold in Christian Booksellers Association affiliated stores. The new standards resulted in complaints by some fans and artists after thirteen entries were disqualified as being too secular in the 1999 Dove Awards.

The rules were rescinded afterward, and many groups disqualified by the rulings in 1999 were winners in 2000.

The controversy grew in 2004 when [[Switchfoot]] and [[Stacie Orrico]] were major winners with music that was predominantly secular in nature. [[Switchfoot]] also drew criticism with an endorsement contract with [[Budweiser (Anheuser-Busch)|Budweiser]]. Some considered the Budweiser deal inappropriate for artists nominated for a GMA Dove Award.

This controversy continues in 2006, as top pop artists who are not in the genre won major awards, as [[Carrie Underwood]] and [[Brian Littrell]] were major GMA Dove Award winners.

===The 2004 television non-broadcast===
In 2004, a major fiasco occurred with the GMA Music Awards (the first year with the name change), with a taped broadcast that never aired. The GMA contracted to screen the awards live in selected [[Regal Cinema]] multiplexes, with [[United Paramount Network]] to broadcast taped coverage five weeks later. However, when GMAMA co-host [[Deion Sanders]] announced on May 15, 2004 that he was leaving [[Viacom]]'s ''[[The NFL Today]]'', intending to join [[ESPN]]'s ''[[NFL Countdown]]'', UPN cancelled the broadcast of the awards.

The GMA Music Awards coverage did not air for eight months, finally broadcast in late December 2004 on the [[I (TV network)|''i'' Network]].

There has not been a live national broadcast of the Dove Awards since 2002.

==Categories==
The 2004 Awards included:
* [[Song of the Year (Dove Award)|Song of the Year]]
* [[Songwriter of the Year (Dove Award)|Songwriter of the Year]]
* Male Vocalist of the Year
* Female Vocalist of the Year
* Group of the Year
* Artist of the Year
* [[New Artist of the Year (Dove Award)|New Artist of the Year]]
* Producer of the Year
* Rap/Hip Hop Recorded Song of the Year
* Modern Rock Recorded Song of the Year
* Rock Recorded Song of the Year
* Rock/Contemporary Recorded Song of the Year
* Pop/Contemporary Recorded Song of the Year
* Inspirational Recorded Song of the Year
* Southern Gospel Recorded Song of the Year
* Bluegrass Recorded Song of the Year
* Country Recorded Song of the Year
* Urban Recorded Song of the Year
* Traditional Gospel Recorded Song of the Year
* Contemporary Gospel Recorded Song of the Year
* Rap/Hip Hop Album of the Year
* Modern Rock Album of the Year
* Rock Album of the Year
* Rock/Contemporary Album of the Year
* Pop/Contemporary Album of the Year
* Inspirational Album of the Year
* Southern Gospel Album of the Year
* Bluegrass Album of the Year
* Country Album of the Year
* Urban Album of the Year
* Traditional Gospel Album of the Year
* Contemporary Gospel Album of the Year
* Praise & Worship Album of the Year
* Instrumental Album of the Year
* Children's Music Album of the Year
* Spanish Language Album of the Year
* Special Event Album of the Year
* Musical of the Year
* Youth/Children's Musical of the Year
* Choral Collection of the Year
* Worship Song of the Year
* Recorded Music Packaging of the Year
* Short Form Music Video of the Year
* Long Form Music Video of the Year

==Recipients by year==

{{Dove Award years}}

==See also==
* [[Christian pop]]
* [[Christian pop culture]]

==External links==
* [http://doveawards.com GMA Dove Awards official website]
* [http://www.thoughtquotient.com/2006/04/15/backstage-at-the-2006-dove-awards/ ThoughtQuotient.com BackStage at the 2006 GMA Music Awards]

{{Musicawards}}

[[Category:Music awards]]
[[Category:Christian music]]
[[Category:Contemporary Christian music]]
[[Category:Christian events]]
[[Category:Dove Awards| ]]

[[hu:Dove Award]]

T-Bone (rapper)

2007-03-01T08:30:16Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

'''T-Bone''' is a [[Christian]] rapper. In [[2002]], he became an ordained minister. T-Bone is of [[Hispanic]], [[Black (people)|black]], & [[White (people)|white]] descent (Reportedly, he's part Nicaraguan and part El Salvadoran). In 1991, he released his first album, ''Redeemed Hoodlum''. In 1993, he released ''The Life of A Hoodlum''. In 1995, he released ''The Hoodlum's Testimony''. In 1997, he released ''History of A Hoodlum-Compilation''. In 2000, he released: ''The Last Street Preacha'', which was nominated for a [[Grammy Award]]. In 2003, he released ''Gospelalphamegafunkyboogiediscomusic''. The same year, he played the role of a rapping prisoner in ''[[The Fighting Temptations]]'', which starred [[Beyoncé Knowles]] and [[Cuba Gooding Jr.]] In 2005 he released an album called ''[[Bone-A-Fide (album)|Bone-A-Fide]]''. He was featured as Jairus in the rock opera ''[[!Hero]]'', along with [[Michael Tait]] of [[Tait]] and [[dc Talk]], [[Rebecca St. James]], and [[Mark Stuart]] of [[Audio Adrenaline]]

==External links==
* [http://www.houseoftbone.com/ Official website]
* [http://www.rapzilla.com/ T-Bone Videos on Rapzilla.com]
[[Category:Christian rappers]]
[[Category:Dove Award winners]]
[[de:T-Bone]]

{{music-bio-stub}}

Christian hip-hop

2007-03-01T08:29:06Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

{{Christian music}}

'''Christian hip hop''' (originally '''gospel rap''', also known as '''holy hip hop''' or '''Christ hop''') is a form of [[hip hop music]] which uses [[Christianity|Christian]] lyrical themes to express the songwriter's faith. Only during the [[1990s]] did the term "Christian hip hop" become descriptive of this type of music. The audience is typically [[Christian]], but the music is also used in [[Mission (Christian)|missions]] work for the purpose of [[evangelization]]. Christian rap and hip hop artists are professed Christians in most cases, and use the fact that they are [[urban area|urban]] or [[Suburb|suburban]] as a positive issue used to spread their [[religion]]. Like all [[Christian music]], it can be experienced as Christian worship.

==History==
[[Stephen Wiley]] was the first artist with a commercially released and distributed gospel rap cassette with his [[1985]] tape ''[[Bible Break]]''. [http://www.kingdomcareers.com/about.html] Better known was the young Christian emcee [[D-Boy|Danny "D-Boy" Rodriguez]], who was murdered in [[1990]] in [[Texas]]. [http://www.christianmusicarchive.com/artist.php?id=5581] And an album has been published dedicated to him (''[[A Tribute to D-Boy]]''), featuring several underground Christian emcees.[http://www.hhhdb.com/hhhdb/index.php?id=50&mode=browse]

In the late 1980's and early 1990's, two groups emerged in this new scene that not only had the "gospel" / "Christian" part, but also had the credible skills and "street wise" artistry to make an impact in the secular or mainstream scene as well{{Fact|date=February 2007}}; [[S.F.C]] (Soldiers For Christ) and [[P.I.D.]] (Preachas In Disguise). S.F.C was lead by Californian African-American [[Chris Cooper (rapper)|Chris Cooper]] who originally rapped as Super C (short for Super Chris / Super Christian) and later became Sup the Chemist and then finally Soup the Chemist. Chris Cooper & S.F.C. were instrumental in bringing up and exposing newer gospel groups such as [[Dynamic Twins]], [[the Original Gospel Gangstas]], [[Freedom Of Soul]], and [[L.P.G]].{{Fact|date=February 2007}} Cooper retired from the industry in 2003.

The 1990's also produced [[funk|funkier]] artists such as [[Disciples of Christ (hip hop)|D.O.C.]] (Disciples of Christ) who emerged out of [[Oklahoma]] as well as the [[Gospel Gangstaz]] from [[Compton]] and [[South Central]] [[Los Angeles, California|LA]]. D.O.C. matured under the guidance of former [[Prince]] guitarist and vocalist [[Dez Dickerson]],{{Fact|date=February 2007}} while the gritty Gospel Gangstaz were ex-[[Bloods]] and ex-[[Crips]] who began ministering to gang-affiliated street youths and winning fans from [[Interscope]] to [[Snoop Dogg]].{{Fact|date=February 2007}} The Gangstaz' [[1999]] release ''[[I Can See Clearly Now (album)|I Can See Clearly Now]]'' became the biggest selling Christian hip hop record at the time and won the group a [[Grammy]] nomination.{{Fact|date=February 2007}}

In [[2003]], [[The Cross Movement]] out of [[Philadelphia, Pennsylvania]] released their breakthrough album ''[[Holy Culture]]''. A followup release to that album, ''[[Higher Definition]]'', was nominated for a Grammy.[http://www.usatoday.com/life/music/awards/grammys/2005-12-08-grammy-list-nominations_x.htm].

In October [[2006]] the second holy hip hop station, [[KHDZ]] was founded as Holy 106.3 FM was the first station to air content in Atlanta, GA 24/7 over the airwaves in 2004.[http://www.holyhiphop.com/Press/HHHPress67.htm]

== Artists and style ==

Many mainstream hip hop artists constantly make acknowledgements of their faith in songs (including [[Tupac Shakur]], [[Kanye West]] [http://www.usatoday.com/life/music/news/2005-02-10-kanye-west-main_x.htm], [[50 Cent]]{{Fact|date=February 2007}}, [[Ma$e]], [[DMX (rapper)|DMX]]{{Fact|date=February 2007}}, [[Bizzy Bone]], [[Young Buck]], [[NAS]], [[Will Smith]], and [[Chamillionaire]]{{Fact|date=February 2007}}) but are not typically considered Christian hip hop artists, as the lyrics in many of their songs contain content considered offensive or objectionable by many Christians.

Popular conventional Christian hip hop groups include [[GRITS (band)|GRITS]] (who have received some mainstream success), The Cross Movement, [[T-Bone (rapper)|T-Bone]], [[LA Symphony]], and [[Mars ILL]]. Among underground Christian rappers and hip hop groups, conventional hip hop such as [[crunk]] is generally preferred, as opposed to pop-rap and artists such as Mr. Del, Canton Jones and Ziklag are popular with this style.{{Fact|date=February 2007}} Also, Christian rappers such as Tre-9, Stikk, K-Drama, Todd Bangz, Corey Red & Precise, Sean Slaughter, Lecrae represent a group of rising Christian hip hop stylists whose music is more acceptable in mainstream and not perceived as being too churchy or wack.{{Fact|date=February 2007}}

In 2006, [[Rawsrvnt]] signed with the newly formed [[Flavor Alliance Media Group]]{{Fact|date=February 2007}} and released a first for the industry{{Fact|date=February 2007}} - an all Worship Hip Hop album entitled ''[[In Rare Form]]'' featuring the hit single "Holiness" (Raw's hip hop version of the popular worship song).{{Fact|date=February 2007}} [[Rawsrvnt]] released 2 prevoius albums with more of a crunk/dirty south style. Other releases from Flavor Alliance in 2006 includes [[Craig Nice]] - self titled; [[Beyond Skillz]] - ''Past Tense''; [[Fla.vor Alliance]] - A Little Off the Top. Pastor Tommy Kyllonen, aka, [[Urban D]] will release his 6th national release in 2007 entitled ''Un.Orthodox'', under the label. [http://www.flavoralliance.com]

Many Christian artists consider the genre superior to its secular counterpart, as evidenced by the tagline of GRITS' album ''[[Factors of the Seven]]'': "the most innovative hip hop in the industry."{{Fact|date=February 2007}} Christian hip hop also contains less [[Sampling (music)|sampling]], possibly due to legal or financial reasons.{{Fact|date=February 2007}} John Reuben's music is notable{{Fact|date=February 2007}} for its lack of sampling, with a band in place of samples. [[Mars ILL]] is a notable exception,{{Fact|date=February 2007}} using sampling regularly; their album ''[[Pro*Pain]]'' was delayed due to legal issues related to this. [http://www.christianitytoday.com/music/interviews/2005/marsill-1005.html]

While many notable studios and artists share influence in Christian hip hop, no one style dominates. Traditionally, hip hop tends to fall into such categories as [[East Coast hip hop|East Coast]], [[West Coast]] (or Left Coast), [[Dirty South]] or even [[prison rap]]. Christian hip hop features all of those styles and more, transcending geographic restrictions and commercial underpinnings. HolyHipHop.com exceeded 140,000 Digital Downloads in 2006, as the first website to offer digital downloads worldwide.{{Fact|date=February 2007}} Web stores such as DaSouth.com, RapZilla.com, 3Hmp3.com, SphereofHipHop.com, HipHopFortheSoul.com and CDBaby.com have opened the commercial market to artists not under contract with a particular record label, but whose recordings measure comparably and favorably with industry recordings.{{Fact|date=February 2007}}

Christian hip hop themed videos and DVDs are also increasing in availability and popularity. [[Christopher "Play" Martin]] (formerly of [[Kid 'N Play]]) released a DVD on [[Amen Films]]entitled ''Holy Hip Hop'' which made it to Blockbuster Video Stores in March 2006.{{Fact|date=February 2007}}

Live events such as [[RapFest]] (held annually in August in [[New York City]]) as well as conferences such as [[Flavor Fest]] (held annually in Nov at [[Crossover Church]] in [[Tampa, FL]]), the Holy Hip Hop Showcase (held annually in January in [[Atlanta, Georgia]]), and the Texas Holy Hip Hop Achievement Awards (held annually in Houston, Texas) have helped to foster the genre among evangelical youth and young adults. Other notable events include [[The Yuinon & H.P.]], based in [[Detroit, Michigan]].

==Reaction==
[[Image:Kj52 02.jpg|thumb|KJ-52 is among the most controversial Christian emcees.]]
As with many inchoate and newly formed musical genres and subgenres, Christian hip hop initially had difficulty finding an audience. Despite early rejection, Christian hip hop has managed to follow other forms of Christian music, such as [[Christian metal]], in becoming a dominant force within [[contemporary Christian music]]. For example, Christian music awards shows such as the [[GMA Dove Awards]] and [[Stellar Awards]] have added rap and hip hop categories [http://www.doveawards.com/history/browse.cfm?cid=34] [http://www.gospelflava.com/stellar/stellarresults-2007.html] and many church congregations have adopted hip hop-themed musical worship.{{Fact|date=February 2007}} 2007 Holy Hip Hop Music Awards received appearances by Kurtis Blow, GrandMaster Caz and even Ma$e walked in unannounced and went to Pastor Eddie Velez on stage in front of a packed audience to apologize for saying that Christian rap was not of God five years earlier. 2007 Holy Hip Hop Music Awards also received a written endorsement letter from the mayor of Atlanta acknowledging the event's support by the City of Atlanta and recognizing its 7th year.{{Fact|date=February 2007}}

Christian hip hop has enjoyed some crossover acceptance as well. One of the most notable mainstream reactions to Christian hip hop was to [[KJ-52]] (pronounced "five-two") and his single "Dear Slim," which was written to [[Eminem]] in an attempt reach him with the message of Christ.{{Fact|date=February 2007}} The song became famous and controversial among Eminem fans when it was featured on the hit show ''[[Total Request Live]]''.{{Fact|date=February 2007}} KJ-52 began to receive [[hate mail]] (including death threats) from Eminem's followers,{{Fact|date=February 2007}} though KJ-52 claimed that the song was not a "diss". This also led to the single being disparaged by [[VH1]],{{Fact|date=February 2007}} an issue the artist addressed in his song "Washed Up."

The [[United Kingdom]] has also recently received Christian hip hop with groups such as [[BoomboomTown]] and [[One Love]]; although their music has been increasingly played in underground Christian hip hop circles, they have yet to achieve mainstream success. The Christian hip hop scene is also growing in [[Japan]],{{Fact|date=February 2007}} with artists such as [[Yoshi Blessed]] and [[Hinds 57]] who is now in the comedic pop group [[BAD]]. In other countries Christian hip hop has been growing in recent years, for example in Germany and South Africa.{{Fact|date=February 2007}}

{{hiphop}}

[[Category:Christian hip hop|*]]

[[it:Christian hip hop]]
[[nl:Christelijke hiphop]]

Christian hip-hop

2007-03-01T08:27:55Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

{{cleanup|February 2007}}
{{Unreferenced|date=February 2007}}
{{Christian music}}

'''Christian hip hop''' (originally '''gospel rap''', also known as '''holy hip hop''' or '''Christ hop''') is a form of [[hip hop music]] which uses [[Christianity|Christian]] lyrical themes to express the songwriter's faith. Only during the [[1990s]] did the term "Christian hip hop" become descriptive of this type of music. The audience is typically [[Christian]], but the music is also used in [[Mission (Christian)|missions]] work for the purpose of [[evangelization]]. Christian rap and hip hop artists are professed Christians in most cases, and use the fact that they are [[urban area|urban]] or [[Suburb|suburban]] as a positive issue used to spread their [[religion]]. Like all [[Christian music]], it can be experienced as Christian worship.

==History==
[[Stephen Wiley]] was the first artist with a commercially released and distributed gospel rap cassette with his [[1985]] tape ''[[Bible Break]]''. [http://www.kingdomcareers.com/about.html] Better known was the young Christian emcee [[D-Boy|Danny "D-Boy" Rodriguez]], who was murdered in [[1990]] in [[Texas]]. [http://www.christianmusicarchive.com/artist.php?id=5581] And an album has been published dedicated to him (''[[A Tribute to D-Boy]]''), featuring several underground Christian emcees.[http://www.hhhdb.com/hhhdb/index.php?id=50&mode=browse]

In the late 1980's and early 1990's, two groups emerged in this new scene that not only had the "gospel" / "Christian" part, but also had the credible skills and "street wise" artistry to make an impact in the secular or mainstream scene as well{{Fact|date=February 2007}}; [[S.F.C]] (Soldiers For Christ) and [[P.I.D.]] (Preachas In Disguise). S.F.C was lead by Californian African-American [[Chris Cooper (rapper)|Chris Cooper]] who originally rapped as Super C (short for Super Chris / Super Christian) and later became Sup the Chemist and then finally Soup the Chemist. Chris Cooper & S.F.C. were instrumental in bringing up and exposing newer gospel groups such as [[Dynamic Twins]], [[the Original Gospel Gangstas]], [[Freedom Of Soul]], and [[L.P.G]].{{Fact|date=February 2007}} Cooper retired from the industry in 2003.

The 1990's also produced [[funk|funkier]] artists such as [[Disciples of Christ (hip hop)|D.O.C.]] (Disciples of Christ) who emerged out of [[Oklahoma]] as well as the [[Gospel Gangstaz]] from [[Compton]] and [[South Central]] [[Los Angeles, California|LA]]. D.O.C. matured under the guidance of former [[Prince]] guitarist and vocalist [[Dez Dickerson]],{{Fact|date=February 2007}} while the gritty Gospel Gangstaz were ex-[[Bloods]] and ex-[[Crips]] who began ministering to gang-affiliated street youths and winning fans from [[Interscope]] to [[Snoop Dogg]].{{Fact|date=February 2007}} The Gangstaz' [[1999]] release ''[[I Can See Clearly Now (album)|I Can See Clearly Now]]'' became the biggest selling Christian hip hop record at the time and won the group a [[Grammy]] nomination.{{Fact|date=February 2007}}

In [[2003]], [[The Cross Movement]] out of [[Philadelphia, Pennsylvania]] released their breakthrough album ''[[Holy Culture]]''. A followup release to that album, ''[[Higher Definition]]'', was nominated for a Grammy.[http://www.usatoday.com/life/music/awards/grammys/2005-12-08-grammy-list-nominations_x.htm].

In October [[2006]] the second holy hip hop station, [[KHDZ]] was founded as Holy 106.3 FM was the first station to air content in Atlanta, GA 24/7 over the airwaves in 2004.[http://www.holyhiphop.com/Press/HHHPress67.htm]

== Artists and style ==

Many mainstream hip hop artists constantly make acknowledgements of their faith in songs (including [[Tupac Shakur]], [[Kanye West]] [http://www.usatoday.com/life/music/news/2005-02-10-kanye-west-main_x.htm], [[50 Cent]]{{Fact|date=February 2007}}, [[Ma$e]], [[DMX (rapper)|DMX]]{{Fact|date=February 2007}}, [[Bizzy Bone]], [[Young Buck]], [[NAS]], [[Will Smith]], and [[Chamillionaire]]{{Fact|date=February 2007}}) but are not typically considered Christian hip hop artists, as the lyrics in many of their songs contain content considered offensive or objectionable by many Christians.

Popular conventional Christian hip hop groups include [[GRITS (band)|GRITS]] (who have received some mainstream success), The Cross Movement, [[T-Bone (rapper)|T-Bone]], [[LA Symphony]], and [[Mars ILL]]. Among underground Christian rappers and hip hop groups, conventional hip hop such as [[crunk]] is generally preferred, as opposed to pop-rap and artists such as Mr. Del, Canton Jones and Ziklag are popular with this style.{{Fact|date=February 2007}} Also, Christian rappers such as Tre-9, Stikk, K-Drama, Todd Bangz, Corey Red & Precise, Sean Slaughter, Lecrae represent a group of rising Christian hip hop stylists whose music is more acceptable in mainstream and not perceived as being too churchy or wack.{{Fact|date=February 2007}}

In 2006, [[Rawsrvnt]] signed with the newly formed [[Flavor Alliance Media Group]]{{Fact|date=February 2007}} and released a first for the industry{{Fact|date=February 2007}} - an all Worship Hip Hop album entitled ''[[In Rare Form]]'' featuring the hit single "Holiness" (Raw's hip hop version of the popular worship song).{{Fact|date=February 2007}} [[Rawsrvnt]] released 2 prevoius albums with more of a crunk/dirty south style. Other releases from Flavor Alliance in 2006 includes [[Craig Nice]] - self titled; [[Beyond Skillz]] - ''Past Tense''; [[Fla.vor Alliance]] - A Little Off the Top. Pastor Tommy Kyllonen, aka, [[Urban D]] will release his 6th national release in 2007 entitled ''Un.Orthodox'', under the label. [http://www.flavoralliance.com]

Many Christian artists consider the genre superior to its secular counterpart, as evidenced by the tagline of GRITS' album ''[[Factors of the Seven]]'': "the most innovative hip hop in the industry."{{Fact|date=February 2007}} Christian hip hop also contains less [[Sampling (music)|sampling]], possibly due to legal or financial reasons.{{Fact|date=February 2007}} John Reuben's music is notable{{Fact|date=February 2007}} for its lack of sampling, with a band in place of samples. [[Mars ILL]] is a notable exception,{{Fact|date=February 2007}} using sampling regularly; their album ''[[Pro*Pain]]'' was delayed due to legal issues related to this. [http://www.christianitytoday.com/music/interviews/2005/marsill-1005.html]

While many notable studios and artists share influence in Christian hip hop, no one style dominates. Traditionally, hip hop tends to fall into such categories as [[East Coast hip hop|East Coast]], [[West Coast]] (or Left Coast), [[Dirty South]] or even [[prison rap]]. Christian hip hop features all of those styles and more, transcending geographic restrictions and commercial underpinnings. HolyHipHop.com exceeded 140,000 Digital Downloads in 2006, as the first website to offer digital downloads worldwide.{{Fact|date=February 2007}} Web stores such as DaSouth.com, RapZilla.com, 3Hmp3.com, SphereofHipHop.com, HipHopFortheSoul.com and CDBaby.com have opened the commercial market to artists not under contract with a particular record label, but whose recordings measure comparably and favorably with industry recordings.{{Fact|date=February 2007}}

Christian hip hop themed videos and DVDs are also increasing in availability and popularity. [[Christopher "Play" Martin]] (formerly of [[Kid 'N Play]]) released a DVD on [[Amen Films]]entitled ''Holy Hip Hop'' which made it to Blockbuster Video Stores in March 2006.{{Fact|date=February 2007}}

Live events such as [[RapFest]] (held annually in August in [[New York City]]) as well as conferences such as [[Flavor Fest]] (held annually in Nov at [[Crossover Church]] in [[Tampa, FL]]), the Holy Hip Hop Showcase (held annually in January in [[Atlanta, Georgia]]), and the Texas Holy Hip Hop Achievement Awards (held annually in Houston, Texas) have helped to foster the genre among evangelical youth and young adults. Other notable events include [[The Yuinon & H.P.]], based in [[Detroit, Michigan]].

==Reaction==
[[Image:Kj52 02.jpg|thumb|KJ-52 is among the most controversial Christian emcees.]]
As with many inchoate and newly formed musical genres and subgenres, Christian hip hop initially had difficulty finding an audience. Despite early rejection, Christian hip hop has managed to follow other forms of Christian music, such as [[Christian metal]], in becoming a dominant force within [[contemporary Christian music]]. For example, Christian music awards shows such as the [[GMA Dove Awards]] and [[Stellar Awards]] have added rap and hip hop categories [http://www.doveawards.com/history/browse.cfm?cid=34] [http://www.gospelflava.com/stellar/stellarresults-2007.html] and many church congregations have adopted hip hop-themed musical worship.{{Fact|date=February 2007}} 2007 Holy Hip Hop Music Awards received appearances by Kurtis Blow, GrandMaster Caz and even Ma$e walked in unannounced and went to Pastor Eddie Velez on stage in front of a packed audience to apologize for saying that Christian rap was not of God five years earlier. 2007 Holy Hip Hop Music Awards also received a written endorsement letter from the mayor of Atlanta acknowledging the event's support by the City of Atlanta and recognizing its 7th year.{{Fact|date=February 2007}}

Christian hip hop has enjoyed some crossover acceptance as well. One of the most notable mainstream reactions to Christian hip hop was to [[KJ-52]] (pronounced "five-two") and his single "Dear Slim," which was written to [[Eminem]] in an attempt reach him with the message of Christ.{{Fact|date=February 2007}} The song became famous and controversial among Eminem fans when it was featured on the hit show ''[[Total Request Live]]''.{{Fact|date=February 2007}} KJ-52 began to receive [[hate mail]] (including death threats) from Eminem's followers,{{Fact|date=February 2007}} though KJ-52 claimed that the song was not a "diss". This also led to the single being disparaged by [[VH1]],{{Fact|date=February 2007}} an issue the artist addressed in his song "Washed Up."

The [[United Kingdom]] has also recently received Christian hip hop with groups such as [[BoomboomTown]] and [[One Love]]; although their music has been increasingly played in underground Christian hip hop circles, they have yet to achieve mainstream success. The Christian hip hop scene is also growing in [[Japan]],{{Fact|date=February 2007}} with artists such as [[Yoshi Blessed]] and [[Hinds 57]] who is now in the comedic pop group [[BAD]]. In other countries Christian hip hop has been growing in recent years, for example in Germany and South Africa.{{Fact|date=February 2007}}

{{hiphop}}

[[Category:Christian hip hop|*]]

[[it:Christian hip hop]]
[[nl:Christelijke hiphop]]

Jesus Freak (album)

2007-03-01T08:27:12Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

{{otheruses|Jesus Freak (disambiguation)}}
{{Infobox Album | 
| Name = Jesus Freak
| Type = [[Album]]
| Artist = [[dc Talk]]
| Cover = Jesus_freak.jpg
| Released = [[November 21]], [[1995]]
| Recorded = 1995
| Genre = [[rock and roll|Rock]]
| Length = 57:53
| Label = [[ForeFront Records|ForeFront]]
| Producer = Mark Heimermann, [[Toby McKeehan]], [[John Mark Painter]]
| Reviews = *[[All Music Guide]] {{rating-5|3}} [http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?p=amg&sql=10:2n6uak5khm3x~T1 link]
*dcTalkUnite {{rating-5|5}} [http://dctalkunite.com/dctalk/albums/jesusfreak link]
*''[[Jesus Freak Hideout]]'' {{rating-5|5}} [http://www.jesusfreakhideout.com/cdreviews/JesusFreak.asp link]
| Last album = ''[[Free at Last (dc Talk album)|Free at Last]]'' (1992)
| This album = ''Jesus Freak'' (1995)
| Next album = ''[[Welcome to the Freak Show]]'' (1997)
}}

'''''Jesus Freak''''' is the fourth [[album]] by [[dc Talk]], released in 1995 and debuting at #3 on Billboard's Top 200 album chart. It has gone on to sell over two million copies<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.christianitytoday.com/music/reviews/2006/jesusfreak.html | title=Jesus Freak: 10th Anniversary Special Edition | accessdate = 2007-01-15 | author = Farias, Andree}}</ref>. The album was listed at #14 in the 2001 book ''[[CCM Presents: The 100 Greatest Albums in Christian Music]]''.

Widely considered by many to be the greatest [[Christian rock]] album of all-time, ''Jesus Freak'' changed the genre of [[Christian hip-hop]] and [[Christian rock]] in so many ways that it still influences bands today.

==Track listing==
#"So Help Me God" – 4:39
#"Colored People" – 4:26
#"[[Jesus Freak (song)|Jesus Freak]]" – 4:49
#"What If I Stumble" – 5:06
#"Day by Day" – 4:30
#"Mrs. Morgan" – 0:57
#"Between You and Me" – 4:59
#"Like It, Love It, Need It" – 5:23
#"Jesus Freak (Reprise)" – 1:17
#"In the Light" – 5:05
#"What Have We Become?" – 6:08
#"Mind's Eye" – 5:17
#"Alas, My Love" – 5:17

==''Freaked!''==
On [[June 20]], [[2006]], [[Gotee Records]], which is headed by [[dc Talk]]'s [[Toby McKeehan]], released a ten-year anniversary CD called ''[[Freaked!]]'' This CD features artists from record labels Gotee and Mono vs Stereo remaking songs off of the original '''Jesus Freak''' album. ''Freaked!'' is not a true tenth-anniversary album, as it was released eleven-and-a-half years after ''Jesus Freak''.

==Credits==
*Joe Baldridge - Engineer
*Brent Barcus - [[Guitar]]
*George Cocchini - Guitar
*[[Todd Collins]] - [[Percussion]], [[Bongos]], [[Conga]], [[Drum]]s, Cabassa, Loops, [[Cowbell]]
*Will Denton - Drums
*Mark Heimermann - [[Bass guitar|Bass]], [[Piano]], [[Cymbals]], [[Hammond organ]], Moog [[Synthesizer]], Producer
*[[Dann Huff]] - Guitar
*David Lyndon Huff - Drums
*Ronn Huff - Arranger, Conductor
*Terry MacMillan - Percussion
*[[Toby McKeehan]] - Producer
*Jerry McPherson - Guitar
*Shaun McWilliams - [[Mandolin]], Drums
*Brent Milligan - Bass
*[[John Mark Painter]] - Bass, Guitar, [[Accordion]], Producer
*[[Charlie Peacock]] - Vocals
*[[Dave Perkins]] - Guitar
*Otto Price - Bass
*[[Chris Rodriguez]] - Guitar
*[[Jimmie Lee Sloas]] - Bass
*[[Aaron Smith (musician)|Aaron Smith]] - Drums
*Dennis Soley - Flute
*Jackie Street - Bass
*Oran Thornton - Guitar
*Sean Turner - Guitar
*Scott Williamson - Drums

==References==
<references />

== External links ==
*[http://www.dctalk.com dc Talk]
*[http://www.forefrontrecords.com ForeFront Records]
*[http://www.dctalkunite.com DcTalkUnite.com]

{{dc Talk}}

[[Category:Dc Talk albums]]
[[Category:1995 albums]]
[[Category:ForeFront Records albums]]

[[de:Jesus Freak]]

DC Talk

2007-03-01T08:25:47Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

{{lowercase}}
{{Unreferenced|date=December 2006}}
{{Infobox_band |
band_name = dc Talk |
image = [[Image:Dc Talk.jpg|200px]] |
years_active = [[1989]]–[[2000]] |
status = On hiatus |
origin = {{flagicon|USA}} [[Lynchburg, Virginia]] |
country = [[United States]] |
music_genre = [[Christian rock]][[Christian hip hop]] |
record_label = [[ForeFront Records]] |
current_members = [[Toby McKeehan]] [[Kevin Max]] [[Michael Tait]] |
}}
'''dc Talk''' (also '''''DC Talk''''' and '''''dc talk''''') was a [[Contemporary Christian music|Christian rock]] band formed in the late [[1980s]] in [[Lynchburg, Virginia]] by [[Toby McKeehan]], [[Kevin Max]], and [[Michael Tait]]. They began as a [[hip hop music|hip hop]] group, but in the mid-90s they reinvented themselves as a [[pop music|pop]]/[[rock music|rock]] group. In both instances, they found critical and commercial success in both the [[Christian music industry]] as well as the [[music industry|general market]]. In 2000, the group was put on hiatus as its members pursued their individual solo careers. 

==History==
The band's roots trace back to the late 1980s, when rapper/vocalist Toby McKeehan (tobyMac) started writing [[Contemporary Christian Music|Christian]] [[hip hop music|hip hop]] under the moniker Caucatalk. While attending [[Liberty University]], he formed dc Talk by joining up with vocalists Kevin Max Smith (Kevin Max) and Michael Tait. The name is short for ''D''ecent ''C''hristian ''Talk''; the explanation can be found in the lyrics of the song "Time Ta Jam" which is on their self-titled debut album.

In 1989, the group released their self-titled debut album on ForeFront Records. They gained some crossover success when the "Heavenbound" music video received airplay on the [[BET]] network. Their follow-up album, ''[[Nu Thang]]'' (1990), also received attention for its hip hop/pop stylings (a la [[M.C. Hammer]], [[Will Smith|Fresh Prince]] and [[Public Enemy]], whom they frequently sample on ''[[Free at Last (dc Talk album)|Free at Last]]'').

[[image:Dctalk.jpg|thumb|DC Talk, 1989]]

Their third release, 1992's ''[[Free at Last (dc Talk album)|Free at Last]]'', was a tremendous success, producing six [[Christian radio]] hits. It was notable for its innovative blending of musical genres, combining [[hip hop music|hip hop]] with [[pop music|pop]], [[rock music|rock]], and [[gospel music|gospel]].

The group's best-known achievement, however, was their fourth album, 1995's ''[[Jesus Freak (album)|Jesus Freak]]''. This time, dc Talk had reinvented themselves as a [[pop music|pop]]-[[rock music|rock]] act, with little to no [[hip hop music|hip hop]] to be found. Now their music was much more similar to a fusion of the musical stylings of [[Nirvana (band)|Nirvana]], [[U2]] or the [[Red Hot Chili Peppers]] than [[M.C. Hammer]]. The album also produced several radio hits. This album has been cited as one of the milestones in [[Christian music]], as it appealed to a much wider audience and achieved much crossover success, having sold over 2 million copies. dc Talk capitalized on this phenomenal success by headlining a tour called "Welcome To The Freak Show", with live recordings later released on [[CD]] and [[VHS]]. They also wrote two books in collaboration with [[Voice of the Martyrs|The Voice of the Martyrs]], ''[[Jesus Freaks (book)|Jesus Freaks]]'' and ''Jesus Freaks II'', each containing dozens of profiles of famous and lesser known Christians who died for their faith.

Their last all-new album, ''[[Supernatural (dc Talk album)|Supernatural]]'' (1998), was not nearly the critical or commercial success as the previous two albums, but it also churned out its share of hits. The songs "Consume Me" & "My Friend (So Long)" received their fair share of radio play on Modern Rock, Contemporary Christian and Alternative outlets. dc Talk did release one last album titled ''[[Intermission: the Greatest Hits|Intermission]]'', but it had only two new song titles, and mostly either greatest hits or remixes of previous recorded songs.

dc Talk also participated in [[Rocketown Records]]'s ''Exodus'' album in 1998 with the song "My Will."

dc Talk has been awarded four [[Grammy Awards]], as well as numerous [[GMA Dove Awards]]. The group is notable for its stances against [[racism]] (especially in "Colored People", track two of ''Jesus Freak''), as well as the uncompromised [[Christian]] message in its music. "We're very open about our [[Christian]] faith," says McKeehan, "but when we make our records we want to create a musical experience that anyone can immerse themselves in." But still, he says, "one of our goals is to encourage listeners to question themselves and to seek out truth."

==Solo Efforts==
In [[2000 in music|2000]], the trio announced that they would be producing solo projects. Since that time, Toby McKeehan, under the name "tobyMac" has released three solo records (five including remix albums), Michael Tait (with his band, Tait) has released two, and Kevin Max has released three.

In [[September 2002]], dc Talk reunited to record and release a single about the [[September 11, 2001 attacks]], entitled "[[Let's roll|Let's Roll]]."

There were rumors of a possible reunion tour, though as of September [[2005]], [[Kevin Max]] denies the rumors. He writes on his official website's message board, "DC Talk is something of the past. In order for DC Talk to be anything of the future, it will be up to each individual member to come together to create something that is lasting and substantial. There ''is'' an audience out there interested in seeing DC Talk back together as a group and as an entertaining and creative force, but I feel that the spirit of the thing is dead. I appreciated the time that we had together those many years, and I thank God many times over for allowing me to be a part of something that was so far reaching and helped so many people, but to be honest, just doing a show to do a show is not interesting to me. It must be thought out, creative and passionate."

In a recent concert with his band Tait, Michael Tait denied rumours of dc Talk's coming back, saying that he was focusing now on Tait.

In [[2005]], dc Talk reunited for a remix of tobyMac's "Atmosphere" as the final track of the ''[[Welcome to Diverse City (album)|Welcome to Diverse City]]'' album.

On [[January 12]], [[2006]], [[Gotee Records]] (founded by dc Talk's [[Toby McKeehan|Tobymac]]) announced the production of a 10th anniversary ''[[Jesus Freak (album)|Jesus Freak]]'' tribute album entitled ''[[Freaked!|FREAKED!]]''. This album, which was released in June [[2006]], features songs from such [[Gotee Records]] artists as [[Relient K]], [[Sarah Kelly]], [[House of Heroes]], [[Verbs]], [[Liquid]], and [[Family Force 5]]. It also features a reunion of the Gotee Brothers.

In 2004, Toby McKeehan and Michael Tait reunited to write a book called "[[Under God]]". The book chronicles America's struggle with racism. Featured in the book are stories about [[Rosa Parks]], [[Emmett Till]], and [[Martin Luther King, Jr.]]. They also released a sequel called "Living Under God", following the same formula.

In September 2005, dc Talk briefly reunited during a concert in [[Washington]] state. They played the songs, In the Light and [[Jesus Freak (song)|Jesus Freak]].

In August 2006, an album titled ''[[The Early Years (dc Talk album)|The Early Years]]'' was released. It is a compilation of songs from their first three albums.

On December 26, 2006, a 10th Anniversary Special Edition Jesus Freak album was released.

Despite the lack of a recent group CD, Christian radio stations continue to play the band's music heavily. As the three friends find success separately, millions of fans across the world hopefully wait for dc Talk to reunite. In a recent interview, Tobymac talked about a possible reunion tour sometime in 2007.{{Fact|date=February 2007}}

==Discography==
{| class="wikitable"
! Cover
! Title
! Year
! Label(s)
! The [[Billboard magazine|Billboard]] 200 Chart Position
! [[RIAA Certification|RIAA Certification]]
|-
| align="center" | [[Image:Dctalk.jpg|100px]]
| align="left" | ''[[DC Talk]]''
| align="center" | [[1989]]
| align="center" | [[ForeFront Records|ForeFront]]
| align="center" | N/A
| align="center" | N/A
|-
| align="center" | [[Image:DcTalkNuThang.jpg|100px]]
| align="left" | ''[[Nu Thang]]''
| align="center" | [[1990]]
| align="center" | ForeFront
| align="center" | N/A
| align="center" | [[Gold album|Gold]]
|-
| align="center" | [[Image:DcTalkFreeatLast.jpg|100px]]
| align="left" | ''[[Free at Last (dc Talk album)|Free at Last]]''
| align="center" | [[1992]]
| align="center" | ForeFront
| align="center" | N/A
| align="center" | [[Gold album|Platinum]]
|-
| align="center" | [[Image:Jesus freak.jpg|100px]]
| align="left" | ''[[Jesus Freak (album)|Jesus Freak]]''
| align="center" | [[1995]]
| align="center" | ForeFront [[Virgin Records|Virgin]]
| align="center" | 16
| align="center" | [[Gold album|2x Platinum]]
|-
| align="center" | [[Image:DcTalkWelcometotheFreakShow.jpg|100px]]
| align="left" | ''[[Welcome to the Freak Show]]''
| align="center" | [[1997]]
| align="center" | ForeFront
| align="center" | 109
| align="center" | Gold
|-
| align="center" | [[Image:DcTalkSupernatural.jpg|100px]]
| align="left" | ''[[Supernatural (dc Talk album)|Supernatural]]''
| align="center" | [[1998]]
| align="center" | ForeFront Virgin
| align="center" | 4
| align="center" | [[Gold album|Platinum]]
|-
| align="center" | [[Image:DcTalkIntermissiontheGreatestHits.jpg|100px]]
| align="left" | ''[[Intermission: the Greatest Hits]]''
| align="center" | [[2000]]
| align="center" | ForeFront
| align="center" | 81
| align="center" | Gold
|-
| align="center" | [[Image:Dc Talk Solo.jpg|100px]]
| align="left" | ''[[Solo:Special Edition]]''
| align="center" | [[2001]]
| align="center" | ForeFront
| align="center" | 142
| align="center" | N/A
|-
| align="center" | [[Image:Nocover.png|100px]]
| align="left" | ''[[The Early Years (dc Talk album)|The Early Years]]''
| align="center" | [[2006]]
| align="center" | ForeFront
| align="center" | N/A
| align="center" | N/A
|-
| align="center" | [[Image:Nocover.png|100px]]
| align="left" | ''Jesus Freak: 10th Anniversary Special Edition''
| align="center" | [[2006]]
| align="center" | ForeFront
| align="center" | N/A
| align="center" | N/A
|}

==Literature==
{| class="wikitable" width="50%"
! Title
! Year
|-
| align="left" | ''[[Jesus Freaks (book)|Jesus Freaks]]''
| align="center" | [[1999]]
|-
| align="left" | ''Live Like a Jesus Freak''
| align="center" | [[2001]]
|-
| align="left" | ''Jesus Freaks Volume II: Stories of Revolutionaries Who Changed Their World Fearing God, Not Man''
| align="center" | [[2002]]
|-
| align="left" | ''Jesus Freaks: Revolutionaries''
| align="center" | [[2005]]
|-
| align="left" | ''Jesus Freaks: Martyrs''
| align="center" | [[2005]]
|}

==Videography==
{| class="wikitable" width="50%"
! Title
! Year
! [[RIAA Certification]]
|-
| align="left" | ''[[Rap, Rock, and Soul]]''
| align="center" | [[1992]]
| align="center" |
|-
| align="left" | ''[[Narrow is the Road]]''
| align="center" | [[1994]]
| align="center" | Gold
|-
| align="left" | ''[[Welcome to the Freak Show]]''
| align="center" | [[1997]], [[2003]]
| align="center" | Gold
|-
| align="left" | ''[[The Supernatural Experience]]''
| align="center" | [[1999]], [[2003]]
|-
| align="left" | ''[[Free at Last: the Movie]]''
| align="center" | [[2002]]
|}

==Gospel Music Awards==
{| class="wikitable"
! Name
! Year
! Award Title
|-
| align="left" | ''[[Nu Thang]]''
| align="center" | [[1991]]
| align="center" | Rap/Hip-Hop Album of the Year
|-
| align="left" | ''I Love Rap Music''
| align="center" | [[1992]]
| align="center" | Rap/Hip-Hop Recorded Song of the Year
|-
| align="left" | ''Rap, Rock & Soul''
| align="center" | [[1992]]
| align="center" | Long Form Music Video of the Year
|-
| align="left" | ''Can I Get a Witness?''
| align="center" | [[1993]]
| align="center" | Rap/Hip-Hop Recorded Song of the Year
|-
| align="left" | ''Jesus Is Just Alright''
| align="center" | [[1994]]
| align="center" | Rock Recorded Song of the Year
|-
| align="left" | ''Socially Acceptable''
| align="center" | [[1994]]
| align="center" | Rap/Hip-Hop Recorded Song of the Year
|-
| align="left" | ''Luv Is A Verb''
| align="center" | [[1995]]
| align="center" | Rap/Hip-Hop Recorded Song of the Year
|-
| align="left" | ''dc Talk''
| align="center" | [[1996]]
| align="center" |Artist of the Year
|-
| align="left" | ''[[Jesus Freak (song)|Jesus Freak]]''
| align="center" | [[1996]]
| align="center" | Rock Recorded Song of the Year
|-
| align="left" | ''[[Jesus Freak (song)|Jesus Freak]]''
| align="center" | [[1996]]
| align="center" | Song of the Year
|-
| align="left" | ''Between You and Me''
| align="center" | [[1997]]
| align="center" | Pop/Contemporary Recorded Song of the Year
|-
| align="left" | ''Like It, Love It, Need It''
| align="center" | [[1997]]
| align="center" | Rock Recorded Song of the Year
|-
| align="left" | ''Jesus Freak''
| align="center" | [[1997]]
| align="center" | Short Form Music Video of the Year
|-
| align="left" | ''Colored People''
| align="center" | [[1998]]
| align="center" | Short Form Music Video of the Year
|-
| align="left" | ''Exodus''
| align="center" | [[1999]]
| align="center" | Special Event Album of the Year
|-
| align="left" | ''The Supernatural Experience''
| align="center" | [[2000]]
| align="center" | Long Form Music Video of the Year
|-
| align="left" | ''Dive''
| align="center" | [[2001]]
| align="center" | Modern Rock Recorded Song of the Year
|}

==Grammy Awards==

{| class="wikitable"
! Title
! Year
! Label(s)
! Award name
|-
| align="left" | ''[[Free at Last (dc Talk album)|Free at Last]]''
| align="center" | [[1993]]
| align="center" | [[ForeFront Records|ForeFront]]
| align="center" | Best Rock Gospel Album
|-
| align="left" | ''[[Jesus Freak (album)|Jesus Freak]]''
| align="center" | [[1996]]
| align="center" | [[ForeFront Records|ForeFront]]
| align="center" | Best Rock Gospel Album
|-
| align="left" | ''[[Welcome to the Freak Show]]''
| align="center" | [[1997]]
| align="center" | [[ForeFront Records|ForeFront]]
| align="center" | Best Rock Gospel Album
|-
| align="left" | ''[[Solo (dc Talk album)|Solo]]''
| align="center" | [[2001]]
| align="center" | [[ForeFront Records|ForeFront]][[Virgin Records|Virgin]]
| align="center" | Best Rock Gospel Album
|}

==External links==
*[http://www.dctalk.com Official website]
*[http://www.tobymac.com tobyMac]
*[http://www.taitband.com Tait]
*[http://www.kevinmax.com Kevin Max]
*[http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendID=32245920 tobyMac MySpace]
*[http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendID=89491414 Michael Tait MySpace]
*[http://profile.myspace.com/kevinmaxmusic Kevin Max MySpace]
*[http://www.dctalkunite.com DcTalkUnite.com]
*[http://www.dct3.net dct3.net]

{{dc Talk}}

[[Category:Dc Talk| ]]
[[Category:Christian rock groups]]
[[Category:Contemporary Christian music]]
[[Category:American hip hop groups]]
[[Category:ForeFront Records]]
[[Category:Christian hip hop groups]]
[[Category:Grammy Award winners]]

[[de:Dc Talk]]
[[nl:Dc Talk]]
[[ja:D.C.トーク]]
[[pt:DC Talk]]
[[fi:DC Talk]]

Kevin Max

2007-03-01T08:23:50Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

{{Infobox musical artist
|Name = Kevin Max
|Img = Kevin_Max.jpg
|Img_size =
|Background = solo_singer
|Birth_name = Kevin Max Smith
|Born = {{Birth date and age|1967|8|17}}
|Origin = [[Grand Rapids, Michigan|Grand Rapids]], [[Michigan]], [[United States|USA]]
|Genre = [[Rock music|Rock]], [[Alternative Rock]]
|Years_active = Late 1980's–Present
|Associated_acts = [[dc Talk]]
}}

'''Kevin Max''' (born [[August 17]], [[1967]]) is an [[United States|American]] [[singer]], [[songwriter]], and [[poet]]. He is best known for being the lead singer of the [[Christian]] rock group [[dc Talk]].

==Biography==
===Early years===
His birth name is ''Kevin Max Smith'', but he legally shortened it to "Kevin Max" in [[1997]], citing that there were probably too many Smiths already in the world. Kevin was himself adopted by the Smith family and grew up in [[Grand Rapids, Michigan|Grand Rapids]], [[Michigan]]. Another reason behind changing his name might be because his adoptive brother was named [[Max]]. [[Kevin]] showed incredible vocal and musical talent early in his life and his talent grew while at Grand Rapids Baptist High School and later at [[Cornerstone University]].

===dc Talk===
Later, at [[Liberty University]], he met fellow [[dc Talk]] friends: [[Toby McKeehan]] and [[Michael Tait]]. Together they formed [[dc Talk]] and went on to achieve great success in both [[Christian]] and mainstream music. The band went on to win four [[Grammy]], 16 [[Dove Awards]], and other recognitions. However, they decided to take an extended "intermission" in [[2000]].

===Spirituality===
In recent years, Kevin Max has attempted to create a name for himself apart from [[dc Talk]]. While he does not shy away from vocally defending his [[Christian]] faith, he has expressed a desire to create art with a universal appeal. He insists, "My music is for a [[Christian]] and a [[Buddhist]] to pick up and still enjoy, as well as for an [[atheist]]. But it is there to prod and ask some questions: What's my worldview? What do I believe in, and why do I believe it?"

===Stereotype Be===
The resulting solo album, ''[[Stereotype Be]]'', released on [[August 28]], [[2001]], was praised by [[All Music Guide]] for "[combining] pop, rock, and world music to create a versatile and intriguing project." Legendary artists [[Adrian Belew]], [[Larry Norman]], and [[Tony Levin]] contributed to the album.

===Further projects===
Curiously, while ''Stereotype Be'' has developed a considerable cult following, it wasn't well-received in the Christian music market, and not long after its release, Max was dropped from his Christian label, [[Forefront Records]]. Undeterred, Max began to slowly build his solo career through live shows and word-of-mouth. He released independent albums via his website, including an [[Extended play|EP]] entitled ''[[Between the Fence & the Universe]]'' and a spoken-word collaboration with Adrian Belew entitled ''[[Raven Songs 101]]'', both in 2004.

In fall of [[2004]], Max's [[word-of-mouth]] strategy finally began to pay off. He played the title role in the [[Visalia Theatre Company]] / [[Hutson-Cavale Productions]] revival of the classic [[Tim Rice]] and [[Andrew Lloyd Webber]]'s ''[[Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat]]''. Later that year, he signed a new deal with [[Northern Records]] and released a second full-length album, titled ''[[The Imposter]]'', said to "contain...a sound that recalls the passion of early [[U2]], the soul of [[Jeff Buckley]], and the ambiguity of [[Blur (band)|Blur]]"[http://kevinmax.com/v5/] on [[October 18]], [[2005]]. He released a [[Christmas]] album, titled ''Holy Night'', in time for the 2005 Holiday Season.

In [[2000]], Candlejump Productions announced their film project, ''Soupernatural'', starring Kevin Max.[http://www.soupernaturalmovie.com/news.html] After six years, filming began in [[January]] of [[2007]].[http://www.stirredwaterstudios.com/soupernatural.html]

===Poetry and writings===
Max is also a poet and an author. He has published four books, three of which are poetry books: ''[[At the Foot of Heaven]]'' ([[1994]]), ''[[The Detritus of Dorian Gray]]'' ([[2003]]) and ''PO.ET.RY'' (2005). The other is an autobiography of sorts titled ''[[Unfinished Work]]'' ([[2001]]), an in-depth look at the meaning of each of his songs from ''Stereotype Be''. In addition, Max has a spoken-word EP album that accompanies his first poetry book ''At the Foot of Heaven'', released in [[1995]] by [[Starsong]] Productions.

===Personal life===
In [[1997]], Max married Alayna Bennett. They [[Divorce|divorced]] in [[2003]] for undisclosed reasons. He remarried in April of [[2005]] to Amanda Lynn MacDonald.[http://www.crossrhythms.co.uk/articles/music/Kevin_Max_The_Imposter/21535/p1/] Their daughter, London, was born on October 7 2005.[http://www.crossrhythms.co.uk/articles/music/Kevin_Max_The_Imposter/21535/p1/],[http://www.crossrhythms.co.uk/articles/music/Kevin_Max_The_Imposter/21535/p1/] They lived in [[Hollywood]], [[California]], until July [[2006]], when Max and his family moved to [[Las Vegas, Nevada|Las Vegas]], [[Nevada]].[http://www.kevinmax.com/v5/] In December 2006, Max announced on his website that he and Amanda were expecting the birth of their second child (a boy) in June 2007.[http://www.kevinmaxmusic.com/v5/]

==Discography==
===Solo===
* ''[[At the Foot of Heaven (album)|At the Foot of Heaven]]'' (spoken word EP, [[Starsong]], 1995)
* ''[[Stereotype Be]]'' ([[Forefront Records]], 2001)
* ''[[Between the Fence & the Universe]]'' (EP, [[Northern Records]], 2004)
* ''[[The Imposter]]'' ([[Northern Records]], 2005)
* ''[[Holy Night (Kevin Max album)|Holy Night]]'' ([[Northern Records]], 2005)

===Collaborations===
* ''[[The Canticle of the Plains]]'', (musical written by Rich Mullins, 1997)
* ''[[Raven Songs 101]]'' (collaboration with [[Adrian Belew]], Blind Thief Publishing, 2003)

===Singles===
* ''Sanctuary'' (2005)
* ''Existence'' (2001)
* ''Be'' (2001)

===Filmography===
* ''Existence'' ([[ForeFront Records]], [[2001]])
* ''Seek Live'' ([[Northern Records]], [[2003]])
* ''Untitled'' (Blind Thief Publishing, [[2003]])

==Books==
* ''[[At the Foot of Heaven (book)|At the Foot of Heaven]]'' (poetry/artwork, [[Starsong]], 1994)
* ''[[Unfinished Work (book)|Unfinished Work]]'' (autobiography, T. Nelson, 2001)
* ''[[The Detritus of Dorian Gray]]'' (poetry, Blind Thief Publishing, 2003)

All three books have been compiled as part of a trilogy, PO/ET/RY. The compilation has been heralded as "literate, controversial and absolutely stunning visually."

==Guest appearances==
*[[Rich Mullins]] - '''To Tell Them'''
:from the [[1992]] album ''[[The World as Best as I Remember It, Volume Two]]''
*Kevin Max - '''Lonely Moon'''
:from the [[1994]] album ''[[Strong Hand of Love]]: A Tribute to Mark Heard''
*[[Audio Adrenaline]] - '''My World View'''
:from the [[1994]] album ''[[Don't Censor Me]]''
*[[Passafist]] - '''Louie's Solo'''
:from the [[1996]] album ''[[Never Say Dinosaur]]''
*[[SONICFLOOd]] - '''Something About That Name'''
:from the [[1999]] album ''[[SONICFLOOd]]''
*Kevin Max - '''Help Me Rhonda'''
:from the [[2002]] album ''[[Making God Smile: An Artists' Tribute to the Songs of Beach Boy Brian Wilson]]''
*[[Toby McKeehan|tobyMac]] - '''Atmosphere: Remix'''
:from the [[2004]] album ''[[Welcome to Diverse City (album)|Welcome to Diverse City]]''
*[[Playdough (rapper)|Playdough]] - '''Sandal Sole'''
:from the [[2006]] album ''[[Don't Drink the Water]]''

==Similar artists==
*[[U2]]
*[[Jeff Buckley]]
*[[Elvis Presley]]
*[[Seal]]
*[[Robbie Williams]]
*[[Bryan Duncan]]
*[[Sting]]

==See also==
*[[dc Talk]]
*[[Tait (band)|Tait]]
*[[Michael Tait]]
*[[Toby McKeehan]]
*[[Northern Records]]

==External links==
*[http://www.kevinmaxmusic.com/v5 Kevin Max]
*[http://www.kevinmaxmusic.com/v5/vanilla Kevin Max message board]
*[http://www.myspace.com/kevin_max1767 Kevin Max MySpace site]
*[http://68.123.230.73/media/the_imposter_player_host.htm The Imposter - Entire album online] (legal copy from his [http://www.provisionnational.com/kevinmax.html booking agent])
*[http://www.northernrecords.com Northern Records]
*[http://www.christianitytoday.com/music/interviews/2005/kevinmax-0505.html Christianity Today interview]
*[http://www.jesusfreakhideout.com/interviews/kevinmax.asp Interview] at ''[[Jesus Freak Hideout]]''
*[http://www.crossrhythms.co.uk/articles/music/Kevin_Max_The_Imposter/21535/p1/ crossrhythms.co.uk interview]
*[http://www.infuzemag.com/interviews/archives/2005/10/kevin_max.html Infuze Magazine interview]
*[http://www.cmspin.com/newsmanager/anmviewer.asp?a=68&z=9 Kevin Max Profile at CMSpin]

{{dc Talk}}

[[Category:1967 births|Max, Kevin]]
[[Category:Living people|Max, Kevin]]
[[Category:American male singers|Max, Kevin]]
[[Category:American poets|Max, Kevin]]
[[Category:Dc Talk members|Max, Kevin]]
[[Category:American rock singers|Max, Kevin]]
[[Category:American rock singer-songwriters|Max, Kevin]]
[[Category:Christian musicians|Max, Kevin]]
[[Category:Christian writers|Max, Kevin]]
[[Category:Dove Award winners|Max, Kevin]]
[[Category:People from Grand Rapids, Michigan|Max, Kevin]]

Toby McKeehan

2007-03-01T08:22:17Z

Jesusfreakdotcom: Redirecting to TobyMac

#REDIRECT [[TobyMac]]

TobyMac

2007-03-01T08:21:10Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

{{lowercase}}
{{Infobox musical artist 2
| Name = tobyMac
| Img = Artists_toby.jpg‎
| Img_capt =
| Background = solo_singer
| Birth_name = Toby McKeehan
| Born = {{Birth date and age|1964|10|22}}
| Country = [[USA]]
| Genre = [[Rapcore]][[Alternative Metal]][[Hard Rock]][[Alternative Rock]][[Funk]][[Nu Metal]][[Contemporary Christian]]
| Occupation = [[Singer-songwriter]]
| Years_active= 2000–present
| Label = [[ForeFront Records]]
| URL = [http://www.tobymac.com/ tobyMac.com]
}}
'''Toby McKeehan''', professionally known as "'''tobyMac'''," is best known for his role as a member of the [[Christian]] music group [[dc Talk]]. He has released five solo albums, ''[[Momentum (album)|Momentum]]'', ''[[Re:Mix Momentum]]'', ''[[Welcome to Diverse City (album)|Welcome to Diverse City]]'', ''[[Renovating Diverse City (album)|Renovating Diverse City]]'' and ''[[Portable_Sounds_(album)|Portable sounds]]''.

==Personal Life==

Toby was born '''Kevin Michael McKeehan''' on [[October 22]], [[1964]]. He got the name Toby from having been born in October. His older brother started calling him Toby before he was born. At some point in his life, his parents divorced, partly influencing the song "Stories (Down to the Bottom)".

Toby and his wife Amanda live in Franklin, TN. They have five children: Truett, Moses, Marlee, Leo, and Judah. Moses and Marlee were adopted in 2002. Leo was born in [[2004]]. Judah was born in [[2006]]. Truett appears on the albums ''Momentum'', ''Re:Mix Momentum'', ''Welcome to Diverse City'', ''Renovating Diverse City'', and ''Portable Sounds'' as emerging rap artist truDog.

==dcTalk==

He grew up in the [[Washington, D.C.]] area and met [[Kevin Max]] and [[Michael Tait]] while in college at [[Liberty University]]. The three formed the band dc Talk in [[1987]]. A unique approach to combining [[rock (music)|rock]], [[pop music|pop]], and [[hip hop music|rap]] quickly rocketed the trio to success, not only in the contemporary Christian music market, but also in the mainstream market. Their album ''[[Jesus Freak (album)|Jesus Freak]]'' was a significant milestone, selling over two million copies, making it a double [[RIAA certification|platinum]] record.

dc Talk's latest album was released in 2000. The members have each pursued individual careers since then, but caution fans that dc Talk has not split up, but has simply "taken an [[intermission]]." The album [[Intermission: the Greatest Hits]] was a dc Talk compilation put together when the group members started their "intermission."

dc Talk reunited to perform a solo on the album [[Let's Roll]] about the events on [[September 11, 2001]], and again on Toby's third album "Welcome to Diverse City." They remixed the song "Atmosphere," an original song appearing earlier on the album.

Throughout the 1990s, tobyMac achieved considerable success with his Grammy winning group dc talk, stockpiling a number of gold and platinum albums with seven million combined copies sold. As the group moved into the rear view window, tobyMac boldly stepped out on his own with his solo debut, Momentum. Earning rave reviews from Billboard to CCM Magazine, the 2001 album debuted atop the Billboard Heatseekers chart, sold over 500,000 copies, and landed two number one singles, "Extreme Days" and "Somebody's Watching." The DC born artist went on to win several Dove Awards, including Producer of the Year, and two BMI honors as Christian Songwriter of the Year.

==Solo Career==

Toby McKeehan's solo music differs from dc Talk's rock-based musical style, leaning toward a more [[urban contemporary|urban]], hip-hop/rap sound. His sound is much more reminiscent of what was heard when dc Talk originally started out, on the albums "DC TALK", "Nu Thang", and "Free At Last", their most widely known album besides "Jesus Freak".

McKeehan composed and recorded the song "Extreme Days" for the [[2001]] Truth Builder Productions film ''[[Extreme Days]]''. The song was subsequently featured on the 2001 debut tobyMac album ''[[Momentum (album)|Momentum]]'' and was used in the movie, ''Hangman's Curse'', based on the popular book by Frank Peretti. McKeehan also composed and performed the song "New World" for the album ''[[Music Inspired by the Chronicles of Narnia|Music Inspired by the Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe]]''. His song "The Slam" was featured in advertisements for the films ''[[Transporter 2]]'' and ''[[The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift]]'', as well as advertisements for the television show ''[[Prison Break]]'' . The song was also featured in car commercials, men's NCAA clips, NBA Finals (Miami Heat, 2006), [[World Wrestling Entertainment]] (WWE) programming, and "The Ultimate Highlight" on ''[[Sportscenter]]''. [[Ohio Valley Wrestling]] performer [[Matt Cappotelli]], who currently is unable to perform due to a brain tumor, uses "The Slam" as his entrance theme. Toby's songs "Atmosphere" and "Burn For You" have also been used in commercials.

"Momentum" and "Welcome to Diverse City" both were certified [[RIAA certification|Gold]] by the RIAA in December, 2006.

==Miscellaneous==

Toby has also written two books with Michael Tait titled "Under [[God]]" and "Living Under God."

Toby is also the [[President]] of [[record label]] [[Gotee Records]]. Gotee features artists such as [[DJ Maj]], [[Relient K]] and [[John Reuben]]. However, as a recording artist, he is under contract with [[ForeFront Records]].

==Discography==
* ''[[Momentum (album)|Momentum]]'' (2001) ([[ForeFront Records]]) Sales Satus: Gold (over 500,000 copies sold)
* ''[[This Christmas]]'' (2002) (single) ForeFront Records
* ''[[Re:Mix Momentum]]'' (2003) ForeFront Records
* ''[[Welcome to Diverse City (album)|Welcome to Diverse City]]'' (2004) (ForeFront Records) Sales Status: Gold (over 500,000 copies sold)
* ''[[Renovating Diverse City (album)|Renovating Diverse City]]'' (2005) ForeFront Records
* ''Top five Hits EP'' (2006) ForeFront Records (EP with 5 radio singles)
* ''[[Portable Sounds (album)|Portable Sounds]]'' (2007) ForeFront Records<ref>[http://www.tobymac.com/the_latest.aspx ''New Album Title and Release Date'']. tobyMac.com news item, [[November 3]][[2006]].</ref> (Released)

==Guest Appearances on Other Albums==
*[[Steven Curtis Chapman]] - ''[[The Great Adventure]]'' - "Got to B Tru" (1992)
*[[Michael W. Smith]] - ''[[Change Your World (Michael W. Smith album)|Change Your World]]'' - "I Wanna Tell The World" (1992)
*[[Michael McDonald (singer)|Michael McDonald]] - ''Blue Obsession'' - "Ain't That Peculiar" (1997)
*[[John Reuben]] - ''[[Are We There Yet? (John Reuben Album)|Are We There Yet?]]'' - "God is Love" (1999)
*[[The Newsboys]] - ''[[Shine: The Hits]]'' - "God is Not a Secret (Remix)" (2000)
*[[The O.C. Supertones]] - ''[[Loud and Clear]]'' - "What it Comes To" (2000)
*[[Shedaisy]] - Brand New Year - "Hark the Herald Angel Sing" (2000)
*[[Relient K]] - ''[[Relient K (album)|Relient K]]'' - "Hello McFly" (2000) (in the form of a phone call to [[Matt Thiessen]] saying that one of his songs would never be published).
*[[Damita]] - ''Damita'' - "Truth" (2000)
*[[Jennifer Knapp]] - ''The Way I Am'' - "Light of the World" (2001)
*[[Out of Eden]] - ''[[This Is Your Life (Out of Eden album)|This is Your Life]]'' - "Day Like Today" (2001)
*[[Jeff Deyo]] - ''[[Saturate (album)|Saturate]]'' - "More Love More Power" (2002)
*[[GRITS (band)|Grits]] - ''[[The Art of Translation]]'' - "Ooh Ahh" (2002)
*[[Kirk Franklin]] - ''The Rebirth of Kirk Franklin'' - "Throw Yo Hands Up!" (2002)
*[[John Reuben]] - ''[[Professional Rapper]]'' - "Life is Short" (2003)
*[[Paul Wright (rapper)|Paul Wright]] - ''Fly Away'' - "West Coast Kid" (2003) (Also featured on "[[Renovating Diverse City (album)|Renovating Diverse City]]").
*[[Charlie Peacock]] - ''Full Circle'' - "One Man Gets Around" (2004)
*Todd Collins - ''Beatmart Recordings: Best of the Submissions'' - "Yes Yes Y'all" (2004)
*[[Delirious?]] - ''[[The Mission Bell]]'' - "Solid Rock" (2005)
*[[DJ Maj]] - ''[[BoogiRoot]]'' - "Can't Take it Away" (2005)
*[[Kirk Franklin]] - ''Hero'' - "Let it Go (with [[Sonny Sandoval|Sonny]] from [[P.O.D.]])" (2005)
*[[Rebecca St. James]] - ''[[If I Had One Chance To Tell You Something]]'' - "Thank You" (2005)
*[[Superchick]] - ''[[Beauty From Pain]]'' - "Stories (Down to the Bottom) (remix)" (2005) (Original version featured on "[[Welcome to Diverse City (album)|Welcome to Diverse City]]").
*[[Ayiesha Woods]] - ''[[Introducing Ayiesha Woods (album)|Introducing Ayiesha Woods]]'' - "Big Enough" (2006)

==Filmography==
* ''Momentum DVD'' (2002)

===Music videos===
* ''Get This Party Started'' (2002)
* ''Extreme Days'' (2001)
* ''Irene'' (2001)
* ''Gone'' (2005)

===With dc Talk===
* ''The Hardway'' (1992)
* ''Jesus is Just Alright'' (1992)
* ''Luv is a verb'' (1992)
* ''Colored People'' (1995)
* ''Between You and Me'' (1995)
* ''[[Jesus Freak (album)|Jesus Freak]]'' (1995)
* ''Minds Eye'' (1995)
* ''Like it, Love it, Need it'' (1995)
* ''Since I Met You'' (1998)
* ''My Friend, So Long'' (1998)
* ''Consume Me'' (1998)

== GMA Dove Awards ==
* 2006 Rock Recorded Song of the Year for "The Slam"
* 2005 Rap/Hip Hop Album of the Year for "Welcome to Diverse City"
* 2003 Short Form Music Video of the Year for "Irene"
* 2002 Rap/Hip Hop Recorded Song of the Year for "Somebody's Watching"
* 2002 Rap/Hip Hop Album of the Year for "Momentum"

==See also==
*[[dc Talk]]
*[[Michael Tait]]
*[[Kevin Max]]
*[[ForeFront Records]]
*[[Gotee Records]]

==References==
<references />

==External links==
*[http://www.tobymac.com tobyMac] - The official tobyMac web site.
*[http://www.dctalk.com dc Talk] - The official dc Talk web site.
*[http://www.myspace.com/tobymac tobyMac's '''REAL''' MySpace site.]

*[http://www.forefrontrecords.com Forefront records] - The Official ForeFront Records Website.
**[http://www.forefrontrecords.com/artist/default.aspx?artistid=67665 Official page at forefrontrecords.com]
*[http://www.gotee.com Gotee Records] - The Official Gotee Records Website.
*[http://www.tobymac.com/music_videos.aspx Link to all four videos]
*[http://www.cmspin.com/newsmanager/anmviewer.asp?a=4073&z=32 tobyMac Interview at CMSpin]

{{dc Talk}}
[[Category:1964 births|McKeehan, Toby]]
[[Category:Living people|McKeehan, Toby]]
[[Category:American male singers|McKeehan, Toby]]
[[Category:American rappers|McKeehan, Toby]]
[[Category:Christian musicians|McKeehan, Toby]]
[[Category:Christian rappers|TobyMac]]
[[Category:Liberty University alumni|McKeehan, Toby]]
[[Category:ForeFront Records|McKeehan, Toby]]
[[Category:Gotee Records|McKeehan, Toby]]
[[Category:dc Talk members|McKeehan, Toby]]
[[Category:Dove Award winners|Mckeehan, Toby]]
[[Category:Contemporary Christian music|McKeehan, Toby]]
[[de:Toby McKeehan]]
[[nl:Toby Mac]]
[[sv:Tobymac]]

Michael Tait

2007-03-01T08:18:22Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

{{Infobox musical artist | 
| Name = Michael Tait
| Img = Michael Tait press photo.jpg
| Img_capt = Michael Tait promotional picture
| Img_size = 
| Landscape = yes
| Background = solo_singer
| Birth_name = Michael DeWayne Tait
| Alias =
| Born = {{Birth date and age|1966|5|18}}
| Died =
| Origin = [[Image:Flag of the United States.svg|25px]] [[USA]]
| Instrument = [[vocals]]
| Genre = [[CCM]][[Rock music|Rock]]
| Occupation = singer, songwriter, producer
| Years_active = 1989-present
| Label =
| Associated_acts = [[dc Talk]][[Tait (band)|Tait]]
| URL =
}}
'''Michael DeWayne Tait''' (born [[May 18]], [[1966]]) is one-third of the notable [[Christian rock]] group [[dc Talk]] and founder of the band [[Tait (band)|Tait]]. Tait is considered one of the most accomplished singers in the [[Christian music]] scene. He is also a self-taught guitar player. One of Tait's three sisters is Lynda Randle, who is a gospel singer with the [[Gaither Homecoming]] Series.

==dc Talk==

Tait met his [[dc Talk]] partners, [[Toby McKeehan]] and [[Kevin Max]], while attending [[Liberty University]] in the late 1980s. Together, they released 5 acclaimed studio albums. In [[2000]], the band decided to "[[Intermission: the Greatest Hits|take a break]]" while all three members devoted themselves to solo projects.

==Tait band and discography==

After dc Talk's hiatus was announced, Tait dedicated more time to his band [[Tait (band)|Tait]] (which he named after his father, Nathel). Tait had partially formed this band around [[1997]]. One of the original members was guitarist [[Pete Stewart]] (from the hard rock band Grammatrain), who is featured on the first album, but absent from the [[Lose This Life|second one]] due to his departing the band to work on [[The Accident Experiment|his own solo projects]].

* [[Empty (album)|Empty]] ([[2001]])
* [[Lose This Life]] ([[2003]])

==Videography==
===With dc Talk===
* ''The Hardway'' ([[1992]])
* ''Jesus is Just Alright'' ([[1992]])
* ''Luv is a verb'' ([[1992]])
* ''Colored People'' ([[1995]])
* ''Between You and Me'' ([[1995]])
* ''[[Jesus Freak (song)|Jesus Freak]]'' ([[1995]])
* ''Minds Eye'' ([[1995]])
* ''Like it, Love it, Need it'' ([[1995]])
* ''[[Supernatural (dc Talk album)|Supernatural]]'' ([[1998]])
* ''Since I Met You'' ([[1998]])
* ''My Friend, So Long'' ([[1998]])
* ''Consume Me'' ([[1998]])

===With Tait===
* Empty ([[2001]])
* [[Lose This Life]] ([[2003]])

==Other Projects==

Tait has also starred as Hero in "[[!Hero]]." He also contributed to various [[book]]s, including the popular ''[[Jesus Freaks (book)|Jesus Freaks]]'' and ''Jesus Freaks II'' books. He recently contributed to the books ''[[Under God]]'' and ''[[Living Under God]]'' with [[dc Talk]] bandmate [[Toby McKeehan|tobyMac]].

==Guest Appearances on Other Albums==
*''[[The Canticle of the Plains]]'' ([[1997]])
*[[Pete Stewart]] - Pete Stewart - "Uphill Battle" ([[1999]])
*[[Jennifer Knapp]] - The Way I Am - "Say Won't You Say" ([[2001]])
*[[Third Day]] - Offerings II: All I Have to Give - "God of Wonders" ([[2003]])
*[[tobyMac]] - [[Welcome to Diverse City (album)|Welcome to Diverse City]] - "Atmosphere Remix featuring [[dc Talk]]" (as [[dc Talk]]) ([[2004]])
*[[DJ Maj]] - Boogiroot - "H.A.N.D.S." ([[2005]])

==External links==
*[http://www.dctalk.com dc Talk]
*[http://www.taitband.com Tait]
*[http://www.dctalkunite.com DcTalkUnite.com]

{{dc Talk}}

[[Category:1966 births|Tait, Michael]]
[[Category:Living people|Tait, Michael]]
[[Category:American musicians|Tait, Michael]]
[[Category:Christian musicians|Tait, Michael]]
[[Category:Contemporary Christian music|Tait, Michael]]
[[Category:African American musicians|Tait, Michael]]
[[Category:American male singers|Tait, Michael]]
[[Category:Dove Award winners|Tait, Michael]]
[[Category:Liberty University alumni|Tait, Michael]]
[[Category:dc Talk members|Tait, Michael]]
[[Category:American Christians|Tait, Michael]]

Krystal Meyers

2007-03-01T08:12:41Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

[[Image:Krystal Meyers 1.JPG|thumb|right|Krystal Meyers performing in [[Westmoreland, Tennessee|Westmoreland, TN]].]]'''Krystal Meyers''' (born [[July 31]] [[1988]]) is a [[Christian rock]] musician signed to [[Essential Records (Christian)|Essential Records]]. She started writing songs by age 10 and was playing the acoustic guitar by 13, later releasing her self titled first album at age 16 in 2005. She wrote or co-wrote every song on the album and also plays guitar on it. Her second album, ''Dying for a Heart'', was released on September 19th, 2006. Krystal's musical style has led many music critics to describe her as "The Christian Avril Lavigne." Her music combines hard-edged rock with smooth acoustic melodies. Krystal has gathered acclaim for her ability to move from quiet soft-rock songs to fast-paced rock and roll anthems without a hitch. Aside from positive Christian messages, her songs mainly focus on problems facing teens, such as peer pressure and pre-marital sex.

== Discography ==

{| class="wikitable"
!align="left"|Album information
|-
|align="left"|'''''Krystal Meyers'''''
*Released: [[June 07]] [[2005]] (US) /[[May 30]] [[2006]] [Import]
*US [[RIAA Certification]]: 300.000 (so far)
*Japan [[RIAJ]] : Gold.
*Peak Position:
*Maxi:
** 2004 "The Way To Begin"
*Singles:
** 2004: "The Way To Begin" — '''#1''' Christian CHR Charts
** 2005: "My Savior" — #8 Christian CHR Charts
** 2005: "Anticonformity" — #8 Christian Rock Charts, '''#1''' JPN
** 2006: "Fire" — #9 Christian CHR Charts
|-
|align="left"|'''''[[Dying For A Heart]]'''''
*Released: [[September 19]] [[2006]] (US) /[[October 24]] [[2006]] [Import]
*U.S. [[RIAA Certification]]: TBA
*Peak Position: TBA
*Maxi:
**2006: "[[Beauty of Grace|The Beauty of Grace]]"
*Singles:
** 2006: "[[Collide (Krystal Meyers Song)|Collide]]" — #6 Christian Rock Charts
** 2006: "[[Beauty of Grace|The Beauty of Grace]]" — #4 Christian CHR Charts, #30* Christian AC charts, #2 JPN
** 2007: "[[Together|Together]]" — released 02/23/07
** 2007: "[[Hallelujah (Krystal Meyers song)|Hallelujah]]" — TBA
** 2007: "Love Is On The Run" — TBA
** 2007: "Stand and Scream" — TBA
** 2007: "The Situation" — TBA
|-
|align="left"|'''''Anticonformity Live CD/DVD'''''
*Released: TBA, 2007
*U.S. [[RIAA Certification]]: TBA
*Peak Position: TBA
*Singles: TBA
|-
|}
'''Music Videos'''
* 2005 "Anticonformity"
* 2006 "Fire"
* 2006 "The Beauty of Grace"
* 2007 "Hallelujah"
* 2007 "Can't Stay" '''(unconfirmed)'''
* 2007 "Stand and Scream" '''(unconfirmed)'''
* 2007 "The Situation" '''(unconfirmed)'''

'''Non-Album Tracks Songs'''
* "King of Angels (Feat. [[Josh Brown (musician)|Josh Brown]])" - from ''Come Let Us Adore Him''

Source for ''Anticonformity Live'': [http://www.anth-net.com/releases.php ANTH-NET.com]

{{Christian-music-stub}}

== External links ==
*[http://www.krystalmeyers.com/ Official Site]
*[http://www.myspace.com/krystalmeyers Myspace profile]
*[http://www.krystal-meyers.org/ Official Fan Site]
*[http://www.devoted.to/thebeautyofgrace/ The Beauty Of Grace - Fan Site]

[[Category:Pop punk groups|Meyers|Krystal]]
[[Category:Christian musicians|Meyers, Krystal]]

[[it:Krystal Meyers]]
[[nl:Krystal Meyers]]
[[ja:クリスタル・マイヤーズ]]

Krystal Meyers

2007-03-01T08:10:36Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

Showbread (band)

2007-03-01T08:09:31Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

{{Infobox_band |

band_name = Showbread |
years_active = [[1997]]–present|
status = Active |
country = [[Savannah, Georgia|Savannah]], [[Georgia (U.S. state)|Georgia]], [[USA]] |
music_genre = [[Raw Rock]][[Post-hardcore]][[Screamo]] |
record_label = [[Tooth and Nail Records]] |
current_members = [[Josh Dies]]Ivory Mobley Matt Davis Mike Jensen Patrick Porter John Giddens Justin Oblinger |
image = [[Image:Showbreadsnake.gif||250px]]
}}

'''Showbread''' is a Christian [[Post-hardcore]]/[[Alternative (music)|Alternative]] band from the [[Savannah, Georgia]] area. They are signed to [[Tooth and Nail Records]].

Showbread is one of many modern post-hardcore bands that have infused screaming into many different styles of music, but has differentiated itself from the typical post-hardcore band in many ways. The band's two vocalists, Josh Dies and Ivory Mobley, trade off in dueling vocals which alternate between yelling, screaming, and singing. This effect, combined with the band's frenetic live shows, have caused the band to occasionally be labeled as a "spazz rock" band. In addition, Showbread is one of the few post-hardcore bands that use a [[keytar]]. Furthermore, they are known for wearing matching outfits when performing, usually in red and black but more recently green replacing red in support of their new album ''[[Age of Reptiles]]''. In keeping with their campaign for originality in the music scene, the band generally does not refer to their music as a particular genre; instead, they prefer the term "raw rock." In the words of lead guitarist Matt Davis, "No one ever knew what to say when people asked what style of music we were, so rather than come up with some hyphen filled moniker, we just started saying 'raw rock' and turned it into our campaign."Showbread is also the greatest band, and puts on a spectacular show when you see them live.

==History==
The band was formed in 1997 by Patrick Porter and Travis Riner. There purpose was to create a praise and worship group fit to play Sunday mornings at the southern Baptist church they attended. The original lineup of the band that was first called showbread was Josh and Patrick Porter, Casey Belagorska, Travis Riner, and Davy Minor.

It has been mentioned by the band that during this period they worked solely on covering contemporary Christian bands like [[Third Day]], [[dc Talk]], and [[Jars Of Clay]]. When the church they attended was less than thrilled with this approach, Showbread was left with only Patrick and Josh Porter, and Ivory Mobley to pick up the pieces.

Deciding to pursue original music, the band adapted a pop-punk sound. They recruited drummer Marvin Reilly and vocalist Eddie Ortiz, moving Josh Dies to guitar and Patrick Porter to bass.
The band continued on in this direction for an extended period, playing local and regional shows and garnering the attention of musicians in other Georgia based Christian rock bands. It was through these meetings that the additions of Mike Jensen (guitar) of Rebound, Matt Davis (guitar) of Remembering Johnny, and John Giddens (synthesizer) of (shrug) took place.

Ortiz left the group in 2001 but does appear as vocalist on the independently produced and released record "The Dissonance of Discontent" and plays guitars on the album "[[Goodbye Is Forever]]", he returned briefly to tour and run merch for the band in 2004.

With their new line-up, Showbread toured independent of management, booking agents or record labels for two years before signing to to [[Tooth and Nail Records|Tooth and Nail]] / [[Solid State Records]] in 2004.

Showbread played at the [[Cornerstone Festival]] in summer of that year and quickly gained a strong following. In fall 2004, they released their debut album for [[Tooth and Nail Records]], titled ''[[No Sir, Nihilism Is Not Practical]]''. ''No Sir'' was produced by [[Sylvia Massy]], who has also worked with [[Prince (artist)|Prince]], [[Tool (band)|Tool]], and [[Johnny Cash]].

Showbread's newest album, ''[[Age of Reptiles (Showbread album)|Age of Reptiles]]'', was released on [[August 1]], [[2006]]. On this album, Showbread departed drastically from the spastic, screeching style of their previous albums.

==Strange Traits==
Showbread's lyrics are often introspective and inspire many different interpretations from different listeners, sometimes using unusual things to draw analogies to larger topics. For instance, the song "A Llama Eats A Giraffe (And Vice Versa)", the lead track for ''No, Sir, Nihilism Is Not Practical'', uses the two animals as symbols to represent conflicting views between [[Nihilism]] and [[Christianity]].

Showbread is known for being notoriously unreliable in the press. Most interviews, regardless of purpose, vary from light hearted nonsense to outright absurdity, and the band seems to become serious only when answering questions dealing with their faith. Showbread has made many absurd claims, ranging from the accusation that Tooth and Nail Records was holding their family members hostage to guarantee a softer sound in ''Age of Reptiles'' than ''No Sir, Nihilism Is Not Practical'', to blaming the [[war in Iraq]] on [[Queen Elizabeth]], to admitting to storing of weapons of mass destruction in their tour bus, to the claim that certain members of their band are space aliens and travel the country on mutant [[Manta ray]]s.

The infamous uniforms that the band dons while performing have become noticably more unusual over time. Josh Dies often dresses in outlandish get-ups that include elbow-length latex gloves, fish net stockings, cowboy boots, surgical masks and [[David Bowie]]/[[Mechanical Animals]] inspired make-up.

Very open with their Christianity, the group has even been known to point out that the only serious things they will say during their set are those that deal with their beliefs.

Showbread also give whimsical names to their headlining tours like "Kings Of Krunk" and "To'...Fo' Sho'" and even reportedly suggested that their 2006 tour with the band [[Roses Are Red (band)|Roses Are Red]] be titled "Dookie Eaters Anonymous".

In multiple interviews, singer Josh Dies and singer Ivory have laughed at the "fact" that Ivory "dookied" in his pants multiple times throughout highschool.

==Controversy==
Despite their open statements concerning their faith, Showbread has endured intense criticism from some Christians who feel certain aspects of their music to be offensive and repugnant in terms of Christian morality.

In 2006, a [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5W93Zay0dpE fan made video] for the song “Dead By Dawn” featured on [[You Tube]] was seen by the band and posted on their own site. In turn, this video was misinterpreted by some as an actual Showbread music video which brought attention to the subject matter and lyrics of “Dead By Dawn”. Certain Christian groups retaliated on web forums calling the band “satanic” and insisting that “the only reason these degenerates should be allowed in a church is if it is to get them saved”.

The album featuring the song in question, [[No Sir, Nihilism Is Not Practical]], was even briefly pulled from some Christian music retailers in the wake of the backlash. However, upon further investigation of the accusations and those that made them, the album was restocked and the controversy dismissed.

After a period of silence, on September 7th, 2006 the band reposted (after their website crashed) a [http://www.showbread.net/journal.php#1 Statement] on their site discussing the debate between Christian morality and secular media in defence of their music and the beliefs they stand for. From the [http://www.showbread.net/journal.php#1 Statement], Josh Porter concluded with:

<blockquote>"Showbread is a Christian band. As I tell you from the stage in dark musty concert venues each night, dressed in silly outfits, covered in sweat and in a tired voice. This means that we as a band believe in Jesus Christ, we believe the Bible to be the living word of God, we believe in love."</blockquote>

== Trivia ==
* The band's name comes from the Old Testament of the Bible, and refers to a continual grain offering that was made to God in the temple of Israel.

* The members of Showbread have created and maintained many slang words such as ''Raw'' (positive) and ''Shame'' (negative). Their catch-phrase "Raw Rock Kills" can sometimes be seen on the front head of their bass drum.

* Showbread uses metaphorical references to horror movies in their lyrics, as can be seen in the titles of some songs. For instance, "Welcome to Plainfield, Tobe Hooper" from ''[[No Sir, Nihilism Is Not Practical]]'' refers to American film director [[Tobe Hooper]], famous for the film ''[[The Texas Chainsaw Massacre]]''. The song "George Romero Will Be at Our Wedding" from ''[[Age of Reptiles (Showbread album)|Age of Reptiles]]'' is a reference to another American director, [[George Romero]], famous for such films as ''[[Night of the Living Dead]]''. In "Dead by Dawn" the entire song deals with the [[Evil Dead]] movies.

* Literary references are another common trait on Showbread records. Songs like "[[The Bell Jar]]", "Samsa Meets [[Kafka]]", and "[[Naked Lunch]]" all reference well-known novels.

* Almost all of the songwriting (lyrically and musically) on Showbread's records are credited to singer Josh Dies. Exceptions include the song "Diary Of A Failure" from ''[[Goodbye Is Forever]]'' featuring music written by Mike Jensen, and "Girls Torture Guys Cause They Can" from ''[[The Dissonance Of Discontent]]'' which has lyrics and music written by Eddie Ortiz. On the same record, Ivory Mobley co-wrote the lyrics to a song called "Kaboom".

* Members of Showbread are also involved in the [[Punk Rock]] band [[Knife To Meet You]].

* On the News section of their website last year, there was an entry describing a showdown at a [[P.O.D.]] concert. Being a long-time P.O.D. fan, Ivory rushed the stage during the song "Southtown" and started singing into bassist Traa's mic. The song went on as a security guard wrestled Ivory from the stage.

* Vocalist Joshua Stephen Porter (aka [[Josh Dies]]) has published a novel entitled ''[[The Spinal Cord Perception]]''. You can find more about it at his [http://www.joshuastephenporter.com/ website].

==Remembering Johnny/Rebound/Ithica==

Before joining Showbread, lead guitarist Matt Davis cut his teeth as lead singer/guitarist for Savannah-based musical group, Remembering Johnny (originally Johnny Angel), Mike Jensen fronted Jock Punk group Rebound, and John Giddens sang in the hardcore band Ithica. It was while playing with these bands that Mike, Matt and John met the raw-rockers in Showbread (the groups shared the card for a number of shows around the Low Country area).

==Members==
*[[Josh Dies]] (real name Joshua Stephen Porter)- [[vocals]] and [[guitar]]
*Ivory Mobley (real name Ivory Mobley) - [[vocals]]
*Matt Davis - [[lead guitar]]
*Mike Jensen - [[guitar]]
*Patrick Porter - [[bass guitar]]
*John Giddens - [[keytar]]
*Justin Oblinger- [[drums]]

==Former members==
*Marvin Reilly - [[drums]] (1998-2005)
*Frank Lipari - [[drums]] (2006)
*Eddie Ortiz- [[vocals]] and [[guitar]]
*Chris Nunnaly - [[synthesizer]]
*Emmett Belagorska - [[vocals]]
*Travis Riner - [[guitar]]

==Discography==
*''The Dissonance of Discontent'' ([[1998]])
*''[[Goodbye Is Forever]]'' ([[1999]])
*''[[Human Beings are too Shallow to Fall in Love]]'' ([[2000]])
*''[[Goodnight Sweetheart, The Stitches Are Coming Apart]]'' ([[2001]])
*''[[Showbread (band) Promotional EP|Promotional EP]]'' ([[2002]])
*''[[Life, Kisses, and other Wasted Efforts]]'' ([[2003]], [[Steel Roots Records]])
*''[[No Sir, Nihilism Is Not Practical]]'' ([[2004]],[[Tooth & Nail Records|Tooth & Nail]]/[[Solid State Records]])
*''[[Age of Reptiles (Showbread album)|Age of Reptiles]]'' ([[August 1]], [[2006]], [[Tooth & Nail Records]])

==External links==
*[http://www.showbread.net/ Official homepage]
*[http://www.reptilianempire.com/ The Raw "Club"]
*[http://www.toothandnail.com/artist_releaseinfo.php?id=210/ Tooth and Nail Records artist page]
*[http://www.christian-lyrics.net/artist/showbread/ Showbread Lyrics]
*[http://www.christianrocklyrics.com/showbread.php/ Complete Showbread Lyrics]
*[http://www.purevolume.com/showbread/ Purevolume Page]
*[http://www.myspace.com/showbread Myspace page]
*[http://showbread.16.forumer.com/ Showbread Forum]
*[http://www.joshuastephenporter.com/ Spinal Chord Perception (Josh's Novel)]

[[Category:2000s music groups]]
[[Category:Christian rock groups]]
[[Category:Georgia (U.S. state) musical groups]]
[[Category:Tooth and Nail Records artists]]

Thousand Foot Krutch

2007-03-01T07:39:29Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

{{Infobox musical artist 
| Name = Thousand Foot Krutch
| Img = TFK.jpg
| Img_capt = TFK (L to R) Steve, Joel, Trevor, and Jamie
| Img_size = 
| Landscape =
| Background = group_or_band
| Birth_name =
| Alias =
| Born =
| Died =
| Origin = [[Peterborough]], [[Ontario]] [[Canada]] {{flagicon|Canada}}
| Instrument =
| Genre = [[Christian Rock]], [[Alternative Rock]], [[Rock]]
| Occupation =
| Years_active = [[1998]]-present
| Label = [[Tooth & Nail Records]]
| Associated_acts = [[FM Static]]
| URL =
| Current_members = [[Trevor McNevan]][[Steve Augustine]]Joel BruyereJamie Aplin
| Past_members =
| Notable_instruments =
}}

'''Thousand Foot Krutch''' or '''TFK''' is a [[Canadian]] [[Christian rock]] band.

The band consists of:
*[[Trevor McNevan]] (lead vocals)
*[[Steve Augustine]] (drums)
*Joel Bruyere (bass/vocals)
*Jamie Aplin (guitar/vocals)

Trevor McNevan and Steve Augustine are also in another band, called [[FM Static]].

==Biography==
McNevan started the band in [[Peterborough, Ontario|Peterborough]], [[Ontario]], a city northeast of [[Toronto, Ontario|Toronto]], where he went to [[high school]]. Joel (pronounced "Joe-ell") Bruyere, was McNevan's childhood friend who had moved away but remained in contact with him. Drummer Steve Augustine is from [[Hamilton, Ontario]].

They now consider the Toronto area home when they aren't touring. McNevan (vocalist, songwriter, and band founder of Thousand Foot Krutch), came up with the band's name through his belief that God is a crutch that you can lean on, even if your problems pile a thousand feet high or that God is the crutch that fills the thousand foot void between his perfect holiness and our sinful nature.

Former members include Christian Harvey, drums (1997-1999), Dave Smith, guitar (1997-2002), Tim Baxter, Bass (1997-1999), Paul Pedasuik, Bass (1999), Geoff Laforet, Drums (2000-2002). Therefore Trevor McNevan is the only original member still performing with the group.

==Overview==
Thousand Foot Krutch's first release, ''[[That's What People Do]]'', was released independently in 1998 and is out of print. The band first made an impact on the Christian rock scene with their next release, ''[[Set It Off (album)|Set It Off]]'', in 2000. The sound of the album was distinct in its heavily hip-hop influenced rap nu-metal, and though a few songs from the record (including "Puppet" and "Supafly") impacted at Christian radio, the band gained notoriety almost entirely through self-promotion and word of mouth.

In 2003, TFK signed with [[Seattle, Washington|Seattle]]-based [[Tooth & Nail Records]] after long consideration and released their critically-acclaimed second full-length CD, ''[[Phenomenon (Thousand Foot Krutch album)|Phenomenon]]''. Though something of a departure from the rap-heavy sound of ''Set it Off'', ''Phenomenon'' still relied on McNevan's rhythmic vocals, albeit with a solid modern rock sound similar to [[Linkin Park]]. ''Phenomenon'' received almost universal praise, and spawned 4 popular radio singles, including the anthemic "Rawkfist." The CD sold over 100,000 units in under a year, making it one of the best-selling albums in Tooth & Nail's history. They continued this success with the 2004 rerelease of ''Set it Off'' through Tooth & Nail, allowing for a larger print run and adding 6 songs, including five from "That's What People Do."

On [[July 19]], [[2005]], they released their third full-length album ''[[The Art of Breaking]]'', produced by [[Arnold Lanni]]. This album makes almost a complete break from the nu-metal sound of their earlier albums, focusing more on hard rock elements. The single "Move" peaked at #16 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock chart early 2006. The band is currently in the studio with producer Ken Andrews ([[Mae]], [[Pete Yorn]]) working on their next album, entitled ''The Flame in All of Us''; the record is tentatively slated for release this summer or early fall.

Thousand Foot Krutch usually plays at least 200 concerts per year, supporting themselves and their fellow Tooth & Nail bands. TFK, and McNevan in particular, is also notable for discovering fellow Peterborough and Tooth & Nail band [[Hawk Nelson]].

McNevan and Augustine are both in a side band called [[FM Static]], which can be classified as a pop-punk or pop/rock band and is usually much more light-hearted. Unlike many side projects, FM Static has enjoyed a good deal of success in the Christian music world, scoring two #10 hits for their songs "Crazy Mary" and "Something To Believe In."

==Awards==
===Junos===
In February [[2006]], TFK was nominated for the second consecutive year for the [[Juno Awards]], Canada's top musical prize in the [[Juno Award for Contemporary Christian/Gospel Album of the Year|Contemporary Christian/Gospel Album of the year]] category. TFK was unsuccessful once again, and were not present for the awards; playing instead in [[Springfield, Illinois]].
===CGMA Covenant===
TFK has also been a winner in the Canadian Gospel Music Association's [[Covenant Awards]];
====2006====
*Video of the Year (''Move'')

====2005====
*Album of the year
*Group of the year
*Modern rock album of the year

==Discography==
===Album===
{| class="wikitable"
!align="left"|Album cover
!align="left"|Album information
|- bgcolor="#F0F8FF"
|align="left"|[[image:Peopledo.jpg|left|200px]]
|align="left"|'''''[[That's What People Do]]'''''
*Released: [[1997]]
*Label: "Independent"
|-
|align="left"|[[image:Setitoff.jpg|left|200px]]
|align="left"|'''''[[Set It Off (album)|Set It Off]]'''''
*Released: [[September 7]], [[2001]]
*Label: "[[Tooth & Nail Records]]"
|- bgcolor="#F0F8FF"
|align="left"|[[image:Phenomenon.jpg|left|200px]]
|align="left"|'''''[[Phenomenon (Thousand Foot Krutch album)|Phenomenon]]'''''
*Released: [[September 30]], [[2003]]
*Peak Chart positions: #'''18''' US [[Top Heatseekers]]
*Singles: "[[Rawkfist]]"
*Label: "[[Tooth & Nail Records]]"
|-
|align="left"|[[image:SetItOff.jpg|left|200px]]
|align="left"|'''''[[Set It Off (album)|Set It Off (Remastered)]]'''''
*Released: [[September 7]],[[2004]]
*Label: "[[Tooth & Nail Records]]"
|- bgcolor="#F0F8FF"
|align="left"|[[image:TheArtOfBreaking.jpg|left|200px]]
|align="left"|'''''[[The Art of Breaking]]'''''
*Released: [[July 19]], [[2005]]
*Peak Chart positions: #'''67''' US [[Billboard 200]]
*Singles: "[[Absolute]], [[Move]]"
*Label: "[[Tooth & Nail Records]]"
|-
|align="left"|[[image:Noalbumart.png|left|200px]]
|align="left"|'''''[[The Flame In All Of Us]]'''''
*Released: (To be released) [[2007]][http://www.jesusfreakhideout.com/features/highlights/2007/TFK.asp]
*Label: "[[Tooth & Nail Records]]"
|-
|}

=== Album charts ===
From [[Billboard magazine|Billboard]] (North America).
{| class="wikitable" cellspacing=0 cellpadding=2 width="550" align="center"
!align="left" valign="top"|Year
!align="left" valign="top"|Album
!align="left" valign="top"|Chart
!align="left" valign="top"|Position
|-
|align="center" valign="top"|2005
|align="center" valign="top"|''The Art Of Breaking''
|align="center" valign="top"|The Billboard 200
|align="center" valign="top"|#67
|-
|align="center" valign="top"|2004
|align="center" valign="top"|''Phenomenon''
|align="center" valign="top"|Top Heatseekers
|align="center" valign="top"|#19
|-
|align="center" valign="top"|2003
|align="center" valign="top"|''Phenomenon''
|align="center" valign="top"|Top Heatseekers
|align="center" valign="top"|#18
|-
|}

===Single charts===
From Billboard (North America).
{| class="wikitable" style="margin:auto;"
! width="28" rowspan="2"| Year
! width="343" rowspan="2"| Title
! colspan="1"| Chart Positions
! width="343" rowspan="2"| Album
|-

! width="86"| [[Mainstream Rock Tracks chart|US Mainstream Rock]]
|-
| 2004
|align="center"| "Rawkfist"
! #28
|align="center"| ''Phenomenon''
|-
| 2005
|align="center"| "Absolute"
! #34
|align="center"| ''The Art Of Breaking''
|-
| 2005
|align="center"| "Move"
! #16
|align="center"| ''The Art Of Breaking''
|-
| 2006
|align="center"| "The Art Of Breaking"
! -
|align="center"| ''The Art Of Breaking''
|-
| 2006
|align="center"| "Breathe You In"
! -
|align="center"| ''The Art Of Breaking''
|}

==External links==

*[http://www.thousandfootkrutch.com/ Official site]
*[http://www.purevolume.com/thousandfootkrutch TFK On Purevolume]
{{MySpace|thousandfootkrutch|Thousand Foot Krutch}}
*[http://www.toothandnail.com/front.php Tooth & Nail Records]
*[http://www.fmstatic.com FM Static]
*[http://www.billboard.com/bbcom/bio/index.jsp?pid=438426&cr=artist&or=ASCENDING&sf=length&kw=Thousand%20foot%20krutch TFK On Billboard.com]
*[http://www.firestream.net/fs_rate.php?go=showcat&cat_id=44 TFK] at [http://www.firestream.net Firestream.net]
*[http://www.cmspin.com/newsmanager/anmviewer.asp?a=119&z=12 TFK Profile at CMSpin]

{{Thousand Foot Krutch}}

[[Category:Canadian Christian musicians|Thousand Foot Krutch]]
[[Category:Canadian rock music groups]]
[[Category:Christian rock groups]]
[[Category:Tooth and Nail Records artists]]

[[pt:Thousand Foot Krutch]]

Kids in the Way

2007-03-01T07:30:13Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

{{Infobox_band |
band_name = Kids in the Way |
image = <http://www.jesusfreakhideout.com/concerts/gma/2005/pics/kidsinthewayamyjohn.jpg
-->|
years_active = [[2003]]–present |
origin = |
country = [[United States]] |
music_genre = [[Christian punk]] [[Screamo]] [[Christian Rock]] |
record_label = [[Flicker Records]] |
current_members = David Pelsue Nathan Ehman Willie Bostic Eric Carter |
past_members = Rian Flynn Nathan Hughes Austin Cobb
}}

'''Kids in the Way''' is a [[Christian rock]] group from [[Indianapolis]], [[Indiana]]. Their songs mainly have darker references, and talk about love, death, and political messages (in the song "Burt Rutan"), and often convey undertones of their collective faith as Christians.

==Bio==
Kids in the Way was created in 1997 by vocalist David Pelsue, guitarist Nathan Ehman, and the drummer Eric Carter. Before becoming known as Kids in the Way they were known as Serenity and played a considerably lighter rock sound than what they play now. Kids in the Way changed to its current form after the addition of bass player Nathan Hughes (no longer a member) and Austin Cobb (no longer a member). Kids in the Way release a [[Kids In The Way EP|self-titled EP]] which set them in place for further record releases and future shows with [[Audio Adrenaline]] which was instrumental in their signing to Flicker Records. After releasing their debut album [[Safe from the Losing Fight]] they were able to pick up spots touring with notable bands such as [[Fireflight]], [[Pillar (band)|Pillar]], and [[Relient K]].

Kids in the Way is one of the only bands to consistently frequent small, overlooked states such as Arkansas and other Southern states.

==Members==
*David "Dave" Pelsue – [[singer|lead vocal]]s [ [[1997]] – Present]
*Nathan Ehman – [[guitar]], background vocals [ [[1997]] – Present]
*Eric Carter – [[drums]], background vocals [ [[1997]] – Present]
*Wille Bostic – [[bass guitar|bass]],background vocals [ [[2005]] – Present]

==Past Members==
*Rian Flynn – [[bass guitar|bass]], background vocals [ [[2004]] – [[2005]]]
*Nathan Hughes – [[bass guitar|bass]], background vocals [ [[2002]] – [[2003]]]
*Austin Cobb – [[guitar]], [[Electronic keyboard|keyboard]], background vocals [ [[2002]] – [[2006]]]

==Discography==
{| border="2" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" style="margin: 1em 1em 1em 0; background: #f9f9f9; border: 1px #aaa solid; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 95%;"
|-
|'''Album Cover'''
|'''Date of Release'''
|'''Title'''
|'''Label'''
|'''US Billboard Peak '''
|'''US sales'''
|-
|[[Image:Kids_In_The_Way_EP.jpg|center|50px]]
|[[2002]]
|''[[Kids In The Way EP]]''
|[[Independent record label|Independent]]
| -
| -
|-
|[[Image:KidsInTheWaySafeFromTheLosingFight.jpg|center|50px]]
|[[December 26]],[[2003]]
|''[[Safe from the Losing Fight]]''
|[[Flicker Records]]
| -
| -
|-
|[[Image:Kitwapparitions.jpg|center|50px]]
|[[May 10]],[[2005]]
|''[[Apparitions of Melody]]''
|[[Flicker Records]]
| -
| -
|-
|[[Image:Apparitions_of_MelodyTDL.jpg|center|50px]]
|[[August 8]],[[2006]]
|''[[Apparitions of Melody: The Dead Letters Edition]]''
|[[Flicker Records]]
| -
| -
|-
|}

== External links ==
*[http://www.kidsintheway.com/ Kids in the Way]
*[http://www.flickerrecords.com/ Flicker Records]

{{Unreferenced|date=February 2007}}

[[Category:American musical groups]]
[[Category:Indiana musical groups]]
[[Category:Christian rock groups]]

The Benjamin Gate

2007-03-01T07:25:38Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

{{Infobox_band |
| band_name = The Benjamin Gate
| years_active = [[1998]]-[[2003]]
| status = Not Active
| country = [[South Africa]]
| music_genre = [[Christian Rock]]
| record_label = [[Forefront Records]] (2001-2003)
| current_members = Costa Balamatsias [[Adrienne Camp|Adrienne Liesching]] Brett Palmer Marc "Mac" Pautz Chris Poisat Nick Volsteedt 
}}

'''The Benjamin Gate''' was a [[South Africa]]n band formed in [[1998 in music|1998]] following the motor vehicle accident and subsequent death of a mutual friend and fellow musician, [[Benjamin Herbert]]. Their name, which was also the name of one the entrances into the original city of [[Jerusalem]], was chosen as a tribute to him.

==History==
The band, along with their manager and co-songwriter Marc "Thux" Theodosiou, left [[Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape|Port Elizabeth]] and came to the United States in [[2001 in music|2001]] after David Bach at [[Forefront Records]] heard their demo that they had sent to Nashville for mastering.

The Benjamin Gate released two local independent albums while in South Africa, ''Spinning Head'' and ''comeputyourheadupinmyheart''. Many of the songs of ''comeputyourheadupinmyheart'' were retooled and rereleased on their first major-label record, ''Untitled''. The Benjamin Gate released two critically-acclaimed albums on [[Forefront Records]] (''Untitled'' and ''Contact''), were nominated for four [[Dove Awards]], produced two #1 and one #2 singles, and toured the United States and Europe.

The group parted ways in 2003 due to Adrienne's engagement to Christian artist, [[Jeremy Camp]]. It was noted that Adrienne felt that with her new family starting, that she could not handle the duties required of her both as a rockstar and as a wife. Since then [[Adrienne Camp|Adrienne]] has married musician [[Jeremy Camp]], and they have two daughters, Isabella Rose Camp ([[September 25]], 2004) and Arianne Mae Camp ([[April 5]], 2006). Mac and his wife and children have relocated to southern England to be closer to his mother-in-law. Costa Balamatsias remained in Nashville playing with various artists until early 2006 when he relocated back to South Africa. Nick Volsteedt went to Los Angeles to pursue a modeling career. Marc Theodosiou initially worked for the [[Newsboys]] after The Benjamin Gate ended and is currently the marketing director at [[Selectric Records]].

==Band members==
* Costa Balamatsias - [[bass (guitar)|bass]]
* [[Adrienne Camp|Adrienne Liesching]] - [[vocals]]
* Brett Palmer - [[drums]] (later replaced by Nick Volsteedt)
* Marc "Mac" Pautz - [[guitar]]
* Chris Poisat - [[guitar]]
* Nick Volsteedt - [[drums]]

==Trivia==
* Their merchandise was easily recognized by their [[gasmask]] logo.
* The band was endorsed by [[Oakley, Inc.]].
* They were included on the supertour [[Festival Con Dios]] three times.
* Nick Volsteedt was a former Mr. [[South Africa]] title holder.

==Discography==
* ''Spinning Head EP'' ([[1999]])
* ''comeputyourheadupinmyheart'' ([[1999]])
* ''Untitled'' ([[2001]])
* ''demographics'' ([[2002]])
* ''Contact'' ([[2002]])

==External links==
* [http://www.benjamingate.com/ Official Web Site]
* [http://www.thebenjamingate.net/ TheBenjaminGate.net]
* [http://www.myspace.com/thebenjamingate/ Myspace]

[[Category:2000s music groups|Benjamin Gate, The]]
[[Category:Christian musical groups|Benjamin Gate, The]]
[[Category:South African musical groups|Benjamin Gate, The]]
[[Category:Bands with female lead singers|Benjamin Gate, The]]

Underoath

2007-03-01T07:15:35Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

{{Infobox musical artist
|Name = [[Image:Underoathlogo.png|250px]]
|Img = Underoath_sm.jpg
|Img_capt =
|Img_size =
|Background = group_or_band
|Origin = [[Ocala, Florida]]
|Genre = [[Post-hardcore]][[Metalcore]][[Christian rock]]
|Years_active = [[1998]]-present
|Label = Current: [[Tooth & Nail Records]]/[[Solid State Records]]Former: [[Takehold Records]]Distributed by: [[EMI Christian Music Group]]
|Associated_acts = [[This Runs Through]][[The Almost]][[Maylene and the Sons of Disaster]]
|URL = [http://www.underoath777.com underøath official site]|Current_members = [[Spencer Chamberlain]][[Aaron Gillespie]][[Timothy McTague]][[Grant Brandell]][[Christopher Dudley]][[James Smith (musician)|James Smith]]
|Past_members = [[Dallas Taylor]] Corey StegerMatthew ClarkOctavio FernandezBilly NottkeScott Nunn}}
'''Underoath''' is an [[United States|American]] [[Rock (music)|Rock]] band based in [[Tampa, Florida]]; they are currently signed to [[Tooth & Nail Records|Tooth & Nail]]/[[Solid State Records]]. Though the band's musical style has changed substantially since its inception in [[1998]], it may be said that currently the sextet plays a brand of hard music which combines elements of [[post-hardcore]], [[metalcore]], and [[Emo (music)|emo]]. Underoath is also a [[Christian metal|Christian]] band, <ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.hatesomethingbeautiful.com/chat/viewtopic.php?t=416 | title=We’re a Christian band. | author=Spencer Chamberlain | work=Hate Something Beautiful}}</ref> <ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.drivenfaroff.com/2006/05/07/underoath-interview-may-4th-2006 | title=We’re a Christian band. | author=Chris Dudley | work=Driven Far Off}}</ref> <ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.musicfaith.com/Interviews/7 | title=We're a Christian heavy rock band. | author=Grant Brandell | work=Music Faith}}</ref> <ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.solidstaterecords.com/artist_bio.php?id=208&expand=1 | title=I feel like I want people to know we’re a Christian band. | author=Spencer Chamberlain | work=Solid State Records}}</ref> though they are popular among both Christian and secular audiences. <ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.christianitytoday.com/music/reviews/2006/definethegreatline.html | title=(Underoath has sold) well over 350,000 copies of their 2004 breakthrough ''They're Only Chasing Safety'' … only 20,000 of those CDs were sold in the Christian marketplace. | author=Andree Farias | work=Christian Music Today}}</ref>

Underoath could be considered a poster child for the success of hard music in the early 21st century; despite limited airplay on radio and television outlets such as [[MTV]] and [[VH1]], the band has achieved [[Gold Album|Gold]] status because of constant touring and popularity on internet sites such as [[MySpace]] and [[PureVolume]].
==History==
===Early Years===
Underoath formed in 1998 in then-vocalist [[Dallas Taylor]]'s bedroom in [[Ocala, Florida]]. The band was signed to [[Takehold Records]] in [[1999]] and that year released their debut, ''[[Act of Depression]]''. This album was followed a year later by the five-song, forty-minute ''[[Cries of the Past]]''; both albums are currently out of print. The band's lineup during this time changed frequently and bore little resemblance to the current band. Likewise, the band's music was far heavier in those days, dabbling in [[grindcore]] and [[melodic death metal]], along with periodic structure and time changes and electronic elements. These first albums brought Underoath a small but devoted fanbase.

In [[2001]], Takehold Records was bought out by Tooth & Nail Records; Underoath was subsequently signed to Tooth & Nail's heavier subsidiary, Solid State Records. The band, which was now a sextet, worked with ''Cries of the Past'' producer James Paul Wisner ([[Further Seems Forever]], [[New Found Glory]]) on their Solid State debut, ''[[The Changing of Times]]'', which was released on [[February 26]], [[2002]]. Frequent lineup changes were the main cause of a slightly more accessible sound for the band; shorter songs and more melodic, verse-chorus oriented song structures replaced the epic twists and turns of their earlier records. Though the change in style caused some long-time fans of the band to criticize the album, ''The Changing of Times'' went on to outsell both of their previous albums combined.

In [[2003]], Underoath supported ''The Changing of Times'' through their first stint on the [[Vans]] [[Warped Tour]], but their participation in the tour came to a screeching halt when lead singer Dallas Taylor controversially left the band. Reasons for Dallas leaving the band are explained in Alternative Press [#219]. Taylor was asked to leave Underoath by guitarist [[Timothy McTague]] after a disagreement within the band. Taylor is now the lead singer for [[Southern rock|Southern]] [[metalcore]] outfit [[Maylene and the Sons of Disaster]].

Underoath dropped off the rest of the Warped Tour and the band's future was in considerable doubt. However, the band then went on a supporting tour with [[Atreyu (band) | Atreyu]] that fall with [[Winter Solstice (band) | Winter Solstice]] vocalist Matt Tarpey as the temporary vocalist. Then later in the year, at the CMJ Fest in New York City, the band reappeared with new lead vocalist [[Spencer Chamberlain]], formerly of [[This Runs Through]].

===''They're Only Chasing Safety''===
During the early months of 2004, the band hit the studio again with Wisner to record their first album with Spencer Chamberlain on vocals and their second record for Solid State. ''[[They're Only Chasing Safety]]'' proved to be a breakout success for the band, going on to sell about 350,000 copies to date. Far more melodic than past efforts, Underoath moved even further away from their metal roots; drummer Gillespie arguably made as much of an impact with his singing on the record as Chamberlain did with his screaming. "Reinventing Your Exit" and "It's Dangerous Business Walking Out Your Front Door" were the album's singles; both songs spawned music videos that received airplay on [[MTV2]] and [[Fuse TV|Fuse]].

''They're Only Chasing Safety'' debuted at #1 on the [[Billboard]] Heatseekers Chart and later charted well into the [[Billboard 200]]. Following the release of the album, the band played a number of Warped Tour dates. In the Spring of 2005 the band was asked to participate on the inaugural Taste of Chaos tour. Shortly after the tour, the band embarked on its first headlining tour. The band premièred two brand-new songs during the length of the tour.

The band landed on the cover of [[Alternative Press]] magazine for the first time in [[September]] of 2005, and in October of 2005, ''They're Only Chasing Safety'' was re-released in a two-disc set with four unreleased songs, new artwork by [[Converge]]'s [[Jacob Bannon]], and a DVD with over two hours worth of footage of the band touring in support of the album.

===''Define the Great Line''===
Underoath entered the studio in January 2006 to record their fifth album. Matt Goldman, a founding member of [[Blue Man Group]], and [[Adam Dutkiewicz]], guitarist for [[Killswitch Engage]], worked with the band in producing the album, which would come to be titled ''[[Define the Great Line]]''. The album combined the intricate melodies of ''They're Only Chasing Safety'' with a partial return to the band's metalcore roots.

An unfinished version of the album was leaked onto [[BitTorrent]] websites and [[P2P]] services months before the release date. Members of the band released a statement saying that the leaked version was an unmixed & unmastered, raw copy of the album which lacked certain elements and the finished product would sound much different.

The band flew to Sweden in the spring of 2006 to make videos for the new songs "In Regards to Myself" and "Writing on the Walls"; the latter was chosen as the lead single for the album and was later nominated for the 2007 [[Grammy]] Award for [[Best Short Form Music Video]]. When ''Define the Great Line'' released on June 20, 2006, it sold 98,000 copies in its first week and made it's début on the [[Billboard 200]] Chart at #2
<ref name="ap5">[http://www.billboard.com/bbcom/retrieve_chart_history.do?model.chartFormatGroupName=Albums&model.vnuArtistId=477820&model.vnuAlbumId=785760 Billboard Artist Chart] Billboard Chart History</ref>, the highest debut for a Christian album since 1997 <ref name="ap6">[http://www.billboard.com/bbcom/search/google/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1002763472 Furtado Scores First Chart-Topping Album] Billboard, June 26, 2006</ref>. In its first four weeks on the chart, it stayed in the top 50. It debuted at #1 on the Christian, Christian/Gospel, and Rock charts.

With the debut of ''Define the Great Line'', Underoath simultaneously released a special edition version of the album featuring special artwork and a DVD that includes another behind-the-scenes movie and a "making of" video.

''Define the Great Line'' was certified [[Gold Album|Gold]] by the [[RIAA]] on [[November 11]], 2006, representing 500,000 shipped units of the album. It is the first album in Solid State history to reach that distinction.

The band toured extensively throughout Europe, Australia, and Asia in the fall of 2006 and is scheduled to tour with [[Taking Back Sunday]] and [[Armor for Sleep]] from February to April in 2007. Underoath is currently shooting videos for the songs "You're Ever So Inviting" and "A Moment Suspended in Time"; the former will be released in March, the latter some time later in the year. [http://www.absolutepunk.net/showthread.php?t=206869]

Multiple rumors have flown around by word of mouth and through the internet of Underoath breaking up, members leaving, and rehab stories. Underoath released a statement confirming none of this was true and they followed through by doing their Canadian tour followed by the 'Taste of Chaos World Tour'. It has now been confirmed that Underoath will be playing again on Warped Tour 2007 from July 24th to August 7th.

==Departure from Warped Tour and alleged NOFX controversy==
Underoath was scheduled to spend the summer of 2006 on the main stage of the Warped Tour, but on [[July 28]], [[2006]], it was announced that Underoath was dropping off the remaining dates of the tour. A statement from the band stated that the members "felt it necessary to take some immediate time to focus on our friendship, as that’s more important than risking it for the sake of touring at this time."<ref name="ap1">[http://www.punknews.org/article/18890 Underoath drops off Warped Tour], PunkNews.org, July 29, 2006</ref>.

Rumors to the contrary, however, flew that the band had actually left because [[NOFX]] frontman [[Fat Mike|Michael "Fat Mike" Burkett]] had made fun of Underoath and their religious beliefs on-stage. These rumors were debunked when Burkett told PunkNews.org in a statement of his own that Underoath's claim of needing a break was indeed true.<ref name="fat_mike">[http://www.punknews.org/article/18930 Fat Mike addresses Underoath rumors], PunkNews.org, July 31, 2006.</ref> Burkett did admit to poking fun at the band and criticizing their stance on [[gay marriage]], but emphasised that he befriended Underoath's band members at the start of the tour, had very civilized conversations with various members right up to the band's departure, that he had a personal policy of not making jokes on-stage about anyone he wasn't friends with or didn't like personally, and that there were never any hard feelings between himself and Underoath's band members.<ref name="fat_mike" /> Burkett also revealed on the August 2006 ''Fat Wreck Chords Podcast'' that internal troubles amongst the members of Underoath started after [[Spencer Chamberlain]] had indulged in a couple of cans of [[Bud Light]] with Burkett backstage a few nights prior to Underoath's sudden departure.<ref name="fat_podcast">[http://www.fatwreck.com/community/ "Bi-Costal Broadcast"], ''Fat Wreck Chords Podcast'', August 4, 2006</ref>

In an ''[[Alternative Press]]'' cover story on Underoath, Burkett told the magazine that Spencer Chamberlain had confided in him that Underoath's band members had been "having a lot of arguments over their religious beliefs."<ref name="ap2">Staddon, Tristan. "Sometimes You Walk the Line, Sometimes the Line Walks You", ''Alternative Press'', Issue #219, October 2006, pp.180-186.</ref>. In a sidebar of the same article, Burkett stated that he was "not calling Underoath homophobic, but they're against homosexual people having the same rights that straight people do. I find that to be bigoted."<ref name="ap3">Staddon, Tristan. "Cross Fire", ''Alternative Press'', Issue #219, October 2006, p.186.</ref>

Tim McTague admitted that "90 percent of what [Fat Mike] believes in and thinks is wrong about our country and our government, I agree with... [my] opinion doesn't align with the conservative church or the extreme leftist liberal side, either."<ref name="ap3"/>

In a January 2007 interview with Ultimate-guitar.net, Tim McTague stated the following when asked about Fat Mike's involvement in Underoath's departure,

''"That wasn’t an issue. I mean, that was an issue on the tour in the sense of like there were some things that were said that probably shouldn’t have been said by him. But it never really got to the point where it affected us. That wasn’t the breaking point really for us at all. I think he definitely played a role in making a lot of our stuff public and exaggerating a lot of our beliefs and a lot of our conversations that we had to him. So he definitely loves to stir the pot, and I’ll give him that. But beyond that, we shouldn’t have been on Warped Tour to begin with. It definitely wasn’t a Fat Mike thing."''
[http://ultimate-guitar.com/interviews/interviews/underoaths_tim_mctague_its_been_a_struggle.html Interview with Tim McTague]

In continuation of the 'drama,' Fat Mike, in an interview with Australian youth radio station Triple J on the 23rd February 2007, stated that, whether or not it was the reason that Underoath left the tour, Nofx did ridicule Underoath. In the rare interview, Fat Mike poked fun at the members of Underoath for their beliefs, particularly their nonacceptance of homosexuality and that they did not believe that dinosaurs once existed.

== Members ==

*[[Spencer Chamberlain]] - [[Vocals]]
*[[Aaron Gillespie]] - [[Drums]], [[Vocals]]
*[[Timothy McTague]] - [[Guitar]]
*[[James Smith (musician)|James Smith]] - [[Guitar]]
*[[Grant Brandell]] - [[bass guitar|Bass]]
*[[Christopher Dudley]] - [[Keyboard instrument|Keyboard]], [[Sampling (music)|Sampling]]

==Former members==

*[[Dallas Taylor]] - Vocals (currently in [[Maylene and the Sons of Disaster]])
*Luke Morton - Guitar
*Corey Steger - Guitar
*Matthew Clark - Bass (currently in [[Sleeping By The Riverside]])
*Samm Shuffler - Guitar (currently in The Milanos)
*Octavio Fernandez - Bass/Guitar (currently in At The Wake)
*Billy Nottke - Bass
*Scott (Kelly) Nunn - Drums and guitar (currently in  Malayne)

==Discography==
{| border="2" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" style="margin: 1em 1em 1em 0; background: #f9f9f9; border: 1px #aaa solid; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 95%;"
| '''Album Cover'''
| '''Title'''
| '''Release Date'''
| '''Label'''
|-
| [[Image:Underoath-Act of Depression.jpg|50px]]
| ''[[Act of Depression]]''
| [[July 4]], [[1999]]
| [[Takehold Records]]
|-
| [[Image:Underoath-Cries of the Past.jpg|50px]]
| ''[[Cries of the Past]]''
| [[July 4]], [[2000]]
| [[Takehold Records]]
|-
| [[Image:Underoath-The Changing of Times.jpg|50px]]
| ''[[The Changing of Times]]''
| [[February 26]], [[2002]]
| [[Solid State Records]]
|-
| [[Image:Underoath-Theyre Only Chasing Safety.jpg|50px]]
| ''[[They're Only Chasing Safety]]''
| [[June 15]], [[2004]]
| [[Solid State Records]]
|-
| [[Image:Chasing Safety-special edition.jpg|50px]]
| ''[[They're Only Chasing Safety|They're Only Chasing Safety (Special Edition)]]''
| [[October 4]], [[2005]]
| [[Solid State Records]]
|-
| [[Image:Underoath-Defineregular.jpg|50px]]
| ''[[Define the Great Line]]''
| [[June 20]], [[2006]]
| [[Solid State Records]]
|}
===Singles===
{| class="wikitable" style="margin:auto;"
! width="28" rowspan="2"| Year
! width="300" rowspan="2"| Title
! colspan="3"| Chart Positions
! width="300" rowspan="2"| Album
|-
! width="86"| [[Billboard Hot 100|US Hot 100]]
! width="86"| [[Modern Rock Tracks chart|US Modern Rock]]
! width="86"| [[Mainstream Rock Tracks chart|US Mainstream Rock]]
|-
| [[2002 in music|2002]]
| "When the Sun Sleeps"
!
!
!
| ''[[The Changing of Times]]''
|-
| [[2004 in music|2004]]
| "Reinventing Your Exit"
!
!
!
| ''[[They're Only Chasing Safety]]''
|-
| [[2005 in music|2005]]
| "It's Dangerous Business Walking out Your Front Door"
!
!
!
| ''[[They're Only Chasing Safety]]''
|-
| [[2006 in music|2006]]
| "Writing on the Walls"
!
! #39
!
| ''[[Define the Great Line]]''
|-
| [[2006 in music|2006]]
| "In Regards to Myself"
!
!
!
| ''[[Define the Great Line]]''
|-
| [[2007 in music|2007]]
| "You're Ever So Inviting"
!
!
!
| ''[[Define the Great Line]]''
|-
| [[2007 in music|2007]]
| "A Moment Suspended In Time"
!
!
!
| ''[[Define the Great Line]]''
|-
|}

===Non-album tracks===
''"Wrapped Around Your Finger" ([[The Police]] cover)'' – released on ''[[Policia! - A Tribute to the Police]]'' ([[2005 in music|2005]])

==References and footnotes==
<div class="references-small">
<references />
</div>

== External links ==
* [http://www.underoath777.com/ Official Web site]
* [http://www.definethegreatline.com/ ''Define The Great Line'' mini-site]
* [http://www.chasingsafety.com/ ''They're Only Chasing Safety'' mini-site]
* [http://www.myspace.com/underoath MySpace Profile]
* [http://www.purevolume.com/underoath Underoath] at [[PureVolume]]
* [http://www.underoathfan.com/ Unofficial Fan Site]
*[http://www.hatesomethingbeautiful.com/chat/viewtopic.php?t=416 Interview with Spencer]
* [http://www.drivenfaroff.com/2006/05/07/underoath-interview-may-4th-2006 Underoath Interview - May 4th, 2006]
{{Underoath}}

[[Category:2000s music groups]]
[[Category:Alternative musical groups]]
[[Category:Christian musical groups]]
[[Category:Florida musical groups]]
[[Category:American heavy metal musical groups]]
[[Category:Christian metal groups]]
[[Category:Hardcore punk groups]]
[[Category:Christian hardcore]]
[[Category:Post-hardcore groups]]
[[Category:Christian rock groups]]

[[de:Underoath]]
[[es:Underoath]]
[[fr:Underoath]]
[[pl:Underoath]]
[[pt:Underoath]]
[[sv:Underoath]]

Building 429

2007-03-01T07:02:00Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

{{Infobox musical artist 
| Name = Building 429
| Img = B429.jpg
| Img_capt = L-R: Scotty Beshears, Jesse Garcia, Michael Anderson, Jason Roy
| Img_size = 
| Landscape =
| Background = group_or_band
| Birth_name =
| Alias =
| Born =
| Died =
| Origin = {{flagicon|USA}} [[Raleigh, NC]]
| Instrument =
| Genre = [[Contemporary Christian Music|Christian rock]]
| Occupation =
| Years_active = 2000-Present
| Label = [[Word Records]]
| Associated_acts =
| URL = http://www.building429.com
| Current_members = Michael AndersonJesse GarciaJason Roy
| Past_members = Scotty BeshearsPaul BowdenChristian FuhrerSaul Johnson
| Notable_instruments =
}}

'''Building 429''' is a [[Contemporary Christian Music|Christian rock]] band signed to [[Word Records]]. They were the [[Gospel Music Association]] [[2005]] [[New Artist of the Year (Dove Award)|New Artist of the Year]]. Their name is derived from Ephesians 4:29 – NIV "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen". They have headlined one tour, called the Rise tour, which promoted their second album, ''Rise''. They were joined on this tour by [[Tait (band)|TAIT]], the solo project of [[dc Talk]] member [[Michael Tait]]. They will be joining another dc Talk member, [[toby Mac]] for his "Portable Sounds Tour" in the sring of 2007, along with [[Thousand Foot Krutch]] and [[Family Force 5]].

==Band members==
===Current===
* Jason Roy - Lead Singer & Guitarist ([[2000]]-Present)
* Michael Anderson - Drums ([[2003]]-Present)
* Jesse Garcia - Keyboards & Guitar ([[2005]]-Present)

===Past===
* Christian Fuhrer - Drums ([[2000]]-[[2002]])
* Saul Johnson - Drums ([[2002]]-[[2003]])
* Paul Bowden - Guitars ([[2001]]-[[2006]])
* Scotty Beshears - Bass ([[2000]]-[[2007]])

==History==
In late [[1999]], bassist Scotty Beshears and guitarist/vocalist Jason Roy met in North Carolina at the final performance of Roy's band All Too Familiar. Beshears had formerly been involved with Elijah's Ride, another independent band. They teamed up with drummer Christian Fuhrer to form a new band which blended modern pop-rock music with Christian-themed lyrics. The trio began to perform under the name "Building 429."

According to Jason Roy, the band's name originated from a youth group. Roy's wife Cortni had once belonged to a group called "429 Challenge," based on Ephesians 4:29.<ref>http://www.soulshine.ca/features/featuresarticle.php?fid=155</ref> Whenever someone in the group spoke negatively about another, others were allowed to issue a verbal "four twenty-nine." This resulted in the offender having to say something nice to the person that was offended. The band members took this challenge and created a name around it - building one another up, hence, "Building 429."

Throughout the year [[2000]] Building 429 held a relentless touring schedule, with over 100 shows played and 3,000 of their first (self-titled) CD sold. For [[2001]] they deepened their sound by adding a second guitarist, Paul Bowden, to their lineup. Further success saw them place number 1 on [[Flicker Records]]' A&R online website and forum (no longer online). Much of the band's early success can be attributed to their extensive touring schedule and tendency to write and perform upbeat, commercially-friendly pop-rock songs.

In the summer of [[2002]], Building 429 released the EP ''Preflight'', featuring three rough-mixed recordings from their forthcoming second independent release, plus four acoustic demos. This EP was only available at live shows and on the band's website. In the fall of 2002, their second full-length independent album, entitled ''Flight'', was released. Initially packaged as a CD-R in a sleeve with no artwork (save for a thermal printed disc label), the album was sold at shows and through the band's website. In [[2003]], the album was re-titled ''Building 429'' and professionally pressed and repackaged in a full-sized jewel case with complete artwork. 2002 ended with Saul Johnson replacing Chris Fuhrer as drummer.

In 2003, Building 429 joined rock worship band [[Sonicflood]] on tour. This experience would garner the band national exposure, leading to a record deal with [[Warner Music Group]] label [[Word Records]]. Also in 2003, Saul Johnson left Building 429 to pursue other interests, and Michael Anderson (formerly of Remember Jonah) joined as drummer. Studio work immediately began on the band's major-label debut album.

"Glory Defined," Building 429's first nationally serviced radio single, rose to number 1 on eight combined Christian [[Adult contemporary music|AC]] and [[Contemporary hit radio|CHR]] charts in early [[2004]], remaining number 1 on Christian Radio Weekly's (CRW) AC chart for ten consecutive weeks, claiming the spot faster than any single in the history of the publication. <ref> http://www.cmcentral.com/artists/875.html </ref> The song was the title track from the ''Glory Defined EP'', released [[April 6]], [[2004]]. The EP featured three full-mix tracks (the title track, "Free" and "Show Me Love") and two "unplugged" songs, "The Space In Between Us" and "All You Ask Of Me." A second, AC mix version of "Glory Defined" was also on the EP. On [[July 27]], [[2004]], Building 429's national debut ''Space In Between'' was released. Produced by [[Jim Cooper (musician)|Jim Cooper]], the album gave three more radio hits, including "Above It All," "The Space In Between Us" and "No One Else Knows." The release of the album was followed by major touring with artists such as [[Jeremy Camp]], [[Tree63]] and Sonicflood.

Building 429 received four [[Dove Award]] nominations and won New Artist of the Year by the [[Gospel Music Association]] in [[2005]]. Touring also continued alongside artists [[Todd Agnew]], [[Barlowgirl]], [[Casting Crowns]] and [[Paul Colman]]. <ref>http://www.building429.com/?content=biography</ref> An expanded edition of ''Space In Between'' was released in August 2005, which included the full original album plus two tracks from the ''Glory Defined EP'' ("All You Ask of Me" and "Free"), the AC mix of "Glory Defined," a radio mix of "No One Else Knows" and a cover of [[Chris Tomlin]]'s "Famous One." Early in 2005 Jesse Garcia (formerly of Afterglo) was asked to fill in for guitarist Paul Bowden, after Bowden suffered an elbow injury during an autograph session. When Bowden returned, the band decided to keep Garcia on as a third guitarist and keyboardist, allowing lead vocalist Jason Roy to concentrate more on singing during concerts.<ref>http://www.soulshine.ca/features/featuresarticle.php?fid=155</ref> By the fall of 2005 the band was back in the studio to record their sophomore album ''Rise''.

Produced by Monroe Jones, ''Rise'' (released [[March 14]], [[2006]]) featured a heavier sound more in line with the band's live performances. The first singles to be released from the record included "Searching For a Savior," "Fearless" and "I Belong to You." The album also included guest vocals from former [[dc Talk]] member [[Michael Tait]] and a cover of [[Blessid Union of Souls]]' hit "I Believe." In January of 2006 it was announced that guitarist Paul Bowden would be leaving the band at the end of the month to pursue other areas of ministry. As of this writing the band has shown no public desire to replace Bowden.

Following the release of ''Rise'', Building 429 headlined their own tour with [[Tait (band)|TAIT]], the band fronted by former dc Talk member Michael Tait. Parts of the tour also featured Travel the Road <ref>http://www.traveltheroad.com</ref> missionaries Tim Scott and Will Decker. In September 2006 the band returned to the studio to begin recording for the follow up album to ''Rise''. The end of 2006 saw Building 429 travel to Germany for their first overseas tour. Shows were performed in Heidelburg, Hanau, Baumholder, and Denmark.

In January [[2007]] the band officially announced through its e-mail list, website and MySpace page that bassist and band founder Scotty Beshears had left the band to pursue "another chapter" in his life.<ref>http://www.building429.com</ref> Recording continued throughout January for Building 429's third major studio release, entitled ''Iris to Iris.''

==Discography==
===Independent releases===
*''[[Building 429 (album)|Building 429]]'' (2000)
*''[[Preflight (Building 429)|Preflight]]'' (2002)
*''[[Building 429/Flight]]'' (2002)

===Word/Warner Label Group releases===
*''[[Glory Defined]]'' EP (2004)
*''[[Space in Between Us]]'' (2004)
*''Space In Between Us Expanded Edition'' (2005)
*''[[Rise (Building 429)|Rise]]'' (2006)

===Other recordings===
* "All We Are" ([[2001]] demo)
* "Prodigal" ([[2001]] demo)
* "Believe" ([[2001]] demo)
* "The Spirit Lives On" ([[2001]]) - Original acoustic long version
* "The Heart of Worship" ([[2001]]) - Online worship session recording
* "My Desire" ([[2003]]?) - ''Submerge'' independent compilation
* "With My Hands" ([[2003]]?) - ''Submerge'' independent compilation
* "Grace Greater" ([[2007]]) - ''WOW Hymns 2007'' compilation

==External links==
* [http://www.building429.com Official Site]
* [http://www.purevolume.com/building429 Building 429 on Purevolume]
* [http://www.myspace.com/building429 Building 429 @ Myspace.com]
* [http://www.christian-lyrics.net/artist/building-429 Building 429 Lyrics]

==References==
<references/>

[[Category:Christian rock groups]]
[[Category:Dove Award winners]]
[[Category:North Carolina musical groups]]

Project 86

2007-03-01T06:53:04Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

Project 86 is a Christian alternative rock, rap metal band from Orange County, California consisting of Andrew "Macabre" Schwab (vocals), Randy "Randeath" Torres (guitar), Stephen "Dail" Dail (bass), and Alex "The Hatchet" Albert (drums).

== Biography ==

In 1998, Project 86 released its self-titled debut on [[BEC Recordings]], a sublabel of [[Tooth & Nail Records]]. Immediately the band was labeled "[[rapcore]]". Though Schwab's vocals could barely be called rapping, it was a convenient label due to the popularity of that genre of music at the time. After putting out their second album ''[[Drawing Black Lines]]'' (2000), the band was taken on by [[Atlantic Records]]. However, the promised re-release of ''Drawing Black Lines'' went from being a full-fledged reissue with new artwork and three new songs to nothing more than a bare bones repackaging of the exact same album.

At the outset of its career, Project 86 shared the stage with [[P.O.D.]] and [[Blindside]] on the Warriors Tour. Project (as the band is often referred to by its fans) has played mainstage at both Christian and secular festivals, and has shared the stage with other well known bands such as [[Queensrÿche]], [[Linkin Park]], [[Dead Poetic]], and [[Stavesacre]].

The next two years saw Project 86's addition of a second guitarist ([[Cory Edelman]], formerly of [[No Innocent Victim]]) and his subsequent departure just a few months later. Also, influential rocker [[Marilyn Manson (person)|Marilyn Manson]] took interest in the band and had the song "P.S.", originally released on ''[[Drawing Black Lines]]'', added to the ''[[Blair Witch 2]]'' soundtrack. Probably due to this interest, Project 86 became a higher priority for Atlantic. Atlantic poured over half a million into Project's next musical foray, entitled ''[[Truthless Heroes]]'' (2002), which, though proving to be the band's most popular outing yet, was released amidst some turmoil.

Over the course of recording ''Truthless Heroes'' (which took around a year to complete) Project 86 had increasing difficulty with its management, as well as both record labels (Tooth & Nail still had rights to release their music to the Christian market). This wore the band down immensely, but by the time the album was finished, the difficulty seemed to have worked out in Project's favor - Atlantic bought all of Tooth & Nail's remaining rights to the band and released "[[Hollow Again]]", the first single from the album, on mainstream radio. Word came out that the band would be shooting a video for the song shortly, but it never materialized as Atlantic ran into troubles of its own and liquidated some of its assets - including Project 86. In 2003, finding themselves cut loose by both label and management, Project started its own independent label.

Project 86's fourth album, ''[[Songs To Burn Your Bridges By]]'', was released independently in the fall of 2003 and went on to sell relatively well despite being sold only at shows and online. Come 2004, they re-signed to Tooth & Nail and ''Songs To Burn Your Bridges By'' was re-issued with three new songs and completely new artwork.

In February 2005, Project 86 announced that they were working on a new album. The title was later announced as ''[[...And The Rest Will Follow]]''. The band spent several weeks in the studio with [[Garth Richardson]] over the summer recording the material, and then began releasing a new song every Monday on [http://www.purevolume.com/project86 their purevolume site]. The album was released on [[September 27]], [[2005]], and sold 8,000 copies in its first week, more than any other Project 86 album. A release tour began [[September 23]], with [[Spoken (band)|Spoken]], [[Number One Gun]], Mourning September, and [[The Fold]].

On [[January 6]], [[2006]], Project 86 appeared live on [[G4 (TV channel)|G4]]'s [[Attack of the Show!]], performing "My Will Be A Dead Man" and "The Spy Hunter". This was the band's first appearance on mainstream cable television.

On [[August 14]], [[2006]], notice was posted on the band's website that writing had begun on a new album, slated for release sometime early in 2007.

On [[December 17]], [[2006]], The band released remixes of "Something We Can't Be" and "From December" on their Myspace page. "From December" features [[Joseph Milligan]] from [[Anberlin]] on guitar and [[Timothy McTague]] from [[UnderOath]] on drums. "Something We Can't Be" was remixed by [[The Echoing Green]].

On [[November 18]], [[2006]], at a one-off show at Club 3 Degrees in Minneapolis, Minnesota, the band filmed some live footage for a new DVD that is scheduled to come out around the time of their next album. They also said that they may play a CD release show at 3 Degrees, stating that it would be in May or June of 2007.

On [[January 27]], [[2007]], the band released the release date for their yet to be titled album for [[June 5]], [[2007]].

== Members ==

* Andrew Schwab - [[vocals]]
* Randy Torres - [[guitar]], [[piano]], background vocals
* Steven Dail - [[Bass Guitar|bass]], background vocals
* Alex Albert - [[drums]]

=== Former members ===

* [[Ethan Luck]] - bass (currently in Demon Hunter)
* Cory Edelmann - guitar

== Discography ==

* ''[[Project 86 (album)|Project 86]]'' ([[1998]]) on [http://www.becrecordings.com BEC Recordings] (an imprint of [http://www.toothandnail.com Tooth & Nail Records])
* ''[[Moms Like Us Too Volume One]]'' ([[1999]]) on [http://www.becrecordings.com BEC Recordings] track 7 is a previously unreleased track called "Numb"; this was a compilation CD
* ''[[Drawing Black Lines]]'' ([[2000]]) BEC Recordings and [http://www.atlanticrecords.com/ Atlantic Records]
* ''[[Truthless Heroes]]'' ([[2002]]) Atlantic Records and Tooth & Nail Records
* ''[[Songs to Burn Your Bridges By]]'' ([[2003]]) Independent
* ''[[Songs to Burn Your Bridges By Reissue]]'' ([[2004]]) Tooth & Nail Records
* ''[[...And The Rest Will Follow]]'' ([[2005]]) Tooth & Nail Records
* ''untitled'' (June 5th 2007) Tooth & Nail Records

== Guest appearances ==

*"Is This A Dream?" on [[Sup the Chemist]]'s album ''[[Dust (album)|Dust]]''
* Schuylar Croom from the band [[He Is Legend]] guest stars on the video for [http://www.project86.com/soultest/video_premiere.html My Will Be A Dead Man]
* Stephen Dail played bass on [[Starflyer 59]]'s latest releases, ''[[I Win (EP)|I Win]]'' ([[Extended play|EP]]) and ''[[My Island]]''.
*Randy Torres is featured on [[Falling Up]]'s remix record, "[[Exit Lights]]".
*In the episode "Uncivil War" on the show Viva La Bam, you can hear the song Spy Hunter in the backround.
== Videography ==

'''From ''Project 86'' '''
* 1998: ''Pipe Dream''

'''From ''Drawing Black Lines'' '''
* 2000: '' One-Armed Man (Play On)''

'''From ''Songs To Burn Your Bridges By'' '''

* 2004: ''Spy Hunter''

'''From ''...And The Rest Will Follow'' '''
* 2006: ''[http://www.project86.com/soultest/video_premiere.html My Will Be A Dead Man]''

==External links==

* [http://www.project86.com Project 86 - Official Website]
* [http://www.purevolume.com/project86 PureVolume.com]
* [http://www.uvtv.info/project86.php Videos on UVTV]
* [http://www.octoberthirty.com OctoberThirty.com - Andrew Schwab's site]
* [http://www.breatheanew.com BreatheAnew.com - A Project 86 Fan Site]

[[Category:2000s music groups]]
[[Category:California musical groups]]
[[Category:Alternative musical groups]]
[[Category:Tooth and Nail Records artists]]

{{returnto}} [[Christian music]]

38th Parallel (band)

2007-03-01T06:49:50Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

'''38th Parallel''' is a [[Christian rock]]/[[Hip hop music|hip hop]] band formed in [[Ames, Iowa]]. Before being signed they received extensive airplay in Iowa markets alongside other [[Contemporary Christian music|CCM]] Artists. Unknown to them, they were entered into a talent search contest for Christian music giant [[Word Records]]. They rejected a contract offer in order to reach a more mainstream market, instead signing with [[Squint Entertainment]].

Their name is a play on the [[38th parallel north]], which divides [[North Korea]] from [[South Korea]]. Their first album, ''[[Turn The Tides]]'', was released in [[2002]]. Their most famous song is "Horizon."

Following the disbandment of 38th Parallel, Nate Rippke formed the classic rock band Sons of the Republic. They reformed in 2005 and independently released their second album, ''Untitled''.

== Members ==
* Mark Jennings — [[Singer|Vocals]]
* Nate Rippke — [[Singer|Vocals]]
* Jason Munday — [[Guitar]]s since [[2003]]
* Jeff Barton — [[Bass guitar]]
* Aaron Nordyke — [[Drum]]s

*Shane Moe — [[Guitar]]s til [[2003]]

==External links==
*[http://www.myspace.com/38thparallel 38th Parallel @ MySpace]
*[http://www.christianitytoday.com/music/artists/38thparallel.html Biography]
*[http://www.christianitytoday.com/music/interviews/38thparallel-1002.html Interview] - circa 2002

*[http://www.myspace.com/sonsoftherepublic Sons Of The Republic @ MySpace]

{{US-rock-band-stub}}
{{Christian-music-stub}}

[[Category:Christian rock groups]]

Third Day

2007-03-01T06:47:26Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

{{Infobox musical artist | 
| Name = Third Day
| Img =
| Img_capt =
| Background = group_or_band
| Origin = {{flagicon|USA}} [[Marietta, Georgia|Marietta, GA, USA]]
| Genre = [[Christian Rock]][[Southern Rock]][[Alternative Rock]]
| Years_active = [[1994]] - present
| Label = [[Essential Records (Christian)|Essential Records]]
| URL = http://www.thirdday.com/
| Current_members = [[Mac Powell]][[Tai Anderson]][[Brad Avery]][[David Carr (musician)|David Carr]][[Mark Lee (musician)|Mark Lee]]
| Past_members = Billy Wilkins Geof Barkley
}}

'''Third Day''' is a [[Christian rock]] band formed in [[Marietta, Georgia]] during the [[1990s]]. The band was founded by lead [[singer]] [[Mac Powell]] and [[guitarist]] [[Mark Lee (musician)|Mark Lee]]. The other band members are [[Tai Anderson]] ([[bass guitar|bass]]), [[David Carr (musician)|David Carr]] ([[drums]]), and [[Brad Avery]] ([[guitars]]). The band's name is a reference to the [[bible|biblical]] account of [[Jesus]] rising from the dead on the third day following his [[crucifixion]].

==History==
[[Image:third day01.JPG|thumb|right|200px|Third Day performing live at [[Hillsong Church]], [[Sydney]].]]
Third Day had regional success with their Indie release entitled ''Contagious'' and were signed by an indie label called GrayDot Records in 1994. Third Day was the first band signed to [[Reunion Records]] in [[1995]], where they released their eponymous first mainstream [[album]]. They have since followed it with seven additional albums and one mini-album. Beginning with ''Southern Tracks'', Third Day signed with [[Essential Records (Christian)|Essential Records]]. The group won the [[Grammy Award for Best Rock Gospel Album]] in 2003, 2005, and 2007 for ''[[Come Together (album)|Come Together]]'', ''[[Wire (album)|Wire]]'', and ''[[Wherever You Are (Third Day album)|Wherever You Are]]'', respectively.

==Members==
===Current===
* [[Mac Powell]] - vocals/guitar
* [[Mark Lee (musician)|Mark Lee]] - guitars
* [[Brad Avery]] - guitars
* [[Tai Anderson]] - bass
* [[David Carr (musician)|David Carr]] - drums/percussion

===Past===
* Billy Wilkins, [[Keyboard instrument|keyboards]]. Wilkins was one of the original members of Third Day, from 1991 to 1993, along with Powell and Lee. He was also with the group when Anderson and Carr joined, both of whom were still in high school at the time. He is currently a high school teacher at McEachern High School, where both Powell and Lee graduated in 1991. He has recorded with Third Day as recently as 2003, when he played "Blessed Assurance" on a project for author/speaker Max Lucado.

* Geof Barkley, [[Keyboard instrument|keyboards]]. Barkley (formerly of [[Geoff Moore and the Distance]]) played keyboards on every live album in the band's history and every live show for nearly seven years. Barkley also performed on ''Wherever You Are''. Although never officially a member of the band, [[Brad Avery]] has described Barkley as '"in the band", but he's not a "member" of Third Day, that's two different things. But he is in the band, and he plays with us live every night, and he rocks.' Barkley's background vocals in songs such as "God of Wonders" and "Took My Place" as well as "You Are So Good To Me" have become integral parts of Third Day's live sound. Barkley finished touring with Third Day on [[October 21]], [[2005]] in Raleigh, North Carolina.

==Discography==
===Studio and live albums===
<gallery>
Image:3day1.jpg|<center>'''''[[Third Day (album)|Third Day]]''''' <center>[[February 25]], [[1997]]
Image:3day2.jpg|<center>'''''[[Conspiracy No. 5]]''''' <center>[[August 26]], [[1997]] <center>'''Certified:''' US - Platinum
Image:3day3.gif|<center>'''''[[Time (Third Day album)|Time]]''''' <center>[[August 24]], [[1999]]
Image:Offerings-AWorshipAlbum.jpg|<center>'''''[[Offerings: A Worship Album]]''''' <center>[[July 11]], [[2000]]
Image:Third Day Album Cover.jpg|<center>'''''[[Come Together (album)|Come Together]]''''' <center>[[November]], [[2001]]
Image:Offerings2.jpg|<center>'''''[[Offerings II: All I Have To Give]]''''' <center>[[March 4]], [[2003]]
Image:Thirddaywirecover.jpg|<center>'''''[[Wire (album)|Wire]]''''' <center>[[May]], [[2004]]<center>'''Certified:''' US - Gold
Image:3day live wire.jpg|<center>'''''Live Wire''''' <center>[[2004]]
Image:3day7.jpg|<center>'''''[[Wherever You Are (Third Day album)|Wherever You Are]]''''' <center>[[November 1]], [[2005]] <center>'''Certified:''' US - Gold
Image:ThirdDayChristmasOfferings.jpg|<center>'''''[[Christmas Offerings]]''''' <center>[[October 17]], [[2006]]
Image:Nocover.png|<center>'''''Chronology, Volume One (96-00)''''' (This Product will be Released March 27, 2007<center>'''Certified:''' US - TBA
</gallery>

===EPs===
* "Alien Single" (1997) - (Out of print.)
* "Southern Tracks" (1999) - (Out of print. Released with limited copies of Time.)
* "Carry Me Home" (2002) - (Out of print. Recorded to benefit HABITAT FOR HUMANITY during the Come Together tour.)
* "Wherever You Are (Bonus CD)" (2005) - (Out of print. Released with pre-order of "Wherever You Are". Contains 2 unreleased tracks and a remixed version of 'Cry Out To Jesus'.)

===Independent albums===
* "Long Time Forgotten" (1993)
* "Contagious" (1994)
* "Third Day (Gray Dot Release)" (1996) - (Many of the songs released on these albums were remastered and released on their self-titled album.)

==Music videos==
*Consuming Fire (1996)
*You Make Me Mad (1997)
*Your Love Oh Lord (2003)
*I Believe (2004)
*Cry Out To Jesus (2006)

==Live DVDs==
* ''The Offerings Experience'' ([[2002]])
* ''The Come Together Tour'' ([[2003]])
* ''Live Wire'' ([[2004]])

==Awards==
===Grammy Awards===
* 2002 Grammy Award for Best Rock Gospel Album of the Year for ''Come Together''
* 2004 Grammy Award for Best Rock Gospel Album of the Year for ''Wire''
* 2007 Grammy Award for Best Pop/Contemporary Gospel Album of the Year for ''Wherever You Are''

===Gospel Music Awards===
* 1998 Dove Award for Rock Album of the Year for ''Conspiracy No. 5''
* 1998 Dove Award for Rock Recorded Song of the Year for ''Alien''
* 1999 Dove Award for Special Event Album of the Year for ''Exodus''
* 2000 Dove Award for Rock Album of the Year for ''Time''
* 2001 Dove Award for Group of the Year
* 2001 Dove Award for Artist of the Year
* 2001 Dove Award for Rock Recorded Song of the Year for ''Sky Falls Down''
* 2001 Dove Award for Praise and Worship Album of the Year for ''Offerings - A Worship Album''
* 2001 Dove Award for Special Event Album of the Year for ''City on a Hill - Songs of Worship and Praise''
* 2002 Dove Award for Group of the Year
* 2002 Dove Award for Long Form Music Video of the Year for ''Third Day Live in Concert - The Offerings Experience''
* 2002 Dove Award for Rock Album of the Year for ''Come Together''
* 2002 Dove Award for Rock Recorded Song of the Year for ''Come Together''
* 2003 Dove Award for Group of the Year
* 2003 Dove Award for Rock Recorded Song of the Year for ''40 Days''
* 2003 Dove Award for Special Event Album of the Year for ''City On A Hill - Sing Alleluia''
* 2004 Dove Award for Praise and Worship Album of the Year for ''Offerings II - All I Have to Give''
* 2004 Dove Award for RLong Form Music Video of the Year for ''Third Day Live in Concert, The Come Together Tour''
* 2005 Dove Award for Special Event Album of the Year for ''The Passion of Christ: Songs''
* 2005 Dove Award for Rock/Contemporary Album of the Year for ''Wire''
* 2006 Dove Award for Pop/Contemporary Recorded Song of the Year for ''Cry Out to Jesus''

==Fans==
Some [[Fan (aficionado)|Fan]]s of the band are collectively called Gomers. Gomer, in a sense, is their last name. Each Gomer chooses a first name, such as Happy Gomer, Mac Gomer etc. In the [[Bible]], [[Gomer (Bible)|Gomer]] is the name of the prophet [[Hosea]]'s unfaithful wife. No matter how many times Gomer left Hosea, Hosea would always rescue her when she got into trouble. This story is explored in Third Day's song "Gomer's Theme". When attending Third Day concerts, Gomers wear the color orange, so that the band can see them easily from the stage.<ref>[http://www.gomers.net/html/what_does_gomer_mean_.html A longer explanation of what the term Gomer means]</ref>

In San Diego, CA, Third Day's inspirational song "Tunnel" can be heard each Friday at 10:00am on Rock 105.3 (callsign [[KIOZ]]); it is used by the host of [[The Mikey Show]], Mike Esparza. Esparza is a born-again Christian DJ who turned his life around after coming to grips with addiction and a stay at [[The Betty Ford Center]]. He closes the morning drive show out each Friday using the song as a backdrop while reiterating his love for God and encourages others to make changes in their lives for the positive by embracing Christianity.

==Notes==
<references />

==External links==
*[http://www.thirdday.com/ Official Third Day site]
*[http://www.gomers.net/ Gomer Fan Site]
*[http://www.gomertopia.com/ Gomertopia (Official Gomer Website)]
*[http://www.christianguitar.org/csongs501/Third-Day Third Day Guitar Tabs]
*[http://www.myspace.com/thirdday Official Myspace page]

[[Category:Christian musical groups]]
[[Category:Grammy Award winners]]
[[Category:Dove Award winners]]
[[Category:Contemporary Christian music]]

[[fr:Third Day]]
[[pt:Third Day]]

Jennifer Knapp

2007-03-01T06:41:25Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

{{unreferenced|date=September 2006}}

[[Image:Jennifer Knapp.jpg|thumb|right|Publicity Photo]]

'''Jennifer Knapp''' (born [[April 12]], [[1974]]) is a [[Christian]] [[folk rock]] [[musician]] who has been self-described as "just a girl with a guitar." Jennifer uses her music and heart-felt [[lyrics]] as a vehicle through which to relate the [[gospel]] to a generation of people searching for authenticity, meaning, and relevance. This desire for a deeper and more authentic feel toward [[Christ]] has separated her lyrics and style from most Christian Artists. Her lyrics examine the short-comings of humanity and the idea of sad realism of the world while still expressing the hope of Christ. Her most famous song is '''A Little More''', which is still played on CCM radio stations despite its age.

Knapp was received widely, and toured America after her critically acclaimed first CD release, ''Kansas''. While touring Knapp sung primarily in churches, festivals, and large venues alike. Jennifer's approachability before and after shows is merely an affirmation of the feeling one gathers about her from her music.

In addition to her own releases, she has collaborated with a number of artists on various studio projects and releases, among them [[Audio Adrenaline]], [[Grits]] and [[Third Day]].

==Current News==

In an interview from the January/February [[2004]] issue of [[Relevant Magazine]], Knapp stated that she was taking a break from music for a while, leaving the future of her career in [[God|God's]] hands.

<blockquote>
"It was definitely time for a break," she said. "I was touring Lay It Down while recording The Way I Am, then went directly into touring that record. It got to where I was just doing shows to support the record, rather than having a record support the heart of the people I was supposed to be serving. I don't want to make and tour another record just because that's what people expect, or because 'it's about that time.'" Knapp gave no indication of when new material will surface. "Truly, no plans and no promises of when," she said. "At this time there's really not enough material, and I don't want to force anything just for the sake of getting a record finished." Knapp said she's leaving the future of her career in God's hands. She's still overwhelmed at what opportunities she's already had, but she's not eager to return to the road life anytime soon. "The last seven years have been beyond my ability to imagine," she said. "[This] has been the road that [[God]] has afforded me the option of traveling. Where that road leads, only -- and truly only -- He knows."
</blockquote>

Months later it was revealed that Knapp had left her record company and the [[Contemporary Christian music|CCM]] industry behind. However, Knapp is still listed as an artist on Gotee's web page. After her departure, her record company released a greatest hits CD. Because she had a five-CD contract with her record label ([[Gotee Records]]), they released a live [[Compact Disc|CD]] featuring 13 live tracks in January, [[2006]].

==Discography==
[[Image:knapp1.jpg|frame|Cover of Jennifer Knapp's 3rd album, "The Way I Am"]]
*''Circle Back'' ([[1994]])<ref>(Independent 5 song cassette only release) [http://www.jenniferknapp.net/site/usa/home/home1024.htm]</ref>
*''Wishing Well'' ([[1996]]) <ref>(Independent release, last 5 songs are from ''Circle Back'') [http://www.jenniferknapp.net/site/usa/home/home1024.htm]</ref>
*''Kansas'' ([[1998]])
*''Lay It Down'' ([[2000]])
*''The Way I Am'' ([[2001]])
*''The Collection'' (2-Disk) ([[2003]])
*''8 Great Hits''
*''Live'' ([[2006]])

== References ==
<references/>

== External links ==
* [http://www.jenniferknapp.com/ Jennifer Knapp's Official Website]
* [http://www.jesusfreak.com/knapp Jennifer Knapp's first Website]
* [http://www.gotee.com/ Gotee Records]
* [http://www.phpbbserver.com/jk Unofficial Jennifer Knapp forum]

[[Category:American musical groups]]
[[Category:Christian musical groups]]
[[Category:Christian musicians|Knapp, Jennifer]]
[[Category:Dove Award winners|Knapp, Jennifer]]
[[Category:1974 births|Knapp, Jennifer]]
[[Category:Living people|Knapp, Jennifer]]
[[Category:People from Kansas|Knapp, Jennifer]]
[[Category:Contemporary Christian music|Knapp, Jennifer]]

Dizmas (band)

2007-03-01T06:35:57Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

'''Dizmas''' is a [[Christian rock]] band from the [[Antelope Valley]] area of [[Southern California]]. They began playing together in 1998 as teenagers attending Desert Christian High School, and their [[Debut album|debut]] album was released on June 21, 2005 on the record label [[Credential Recordings]].

== Band Members ==
*Zach Zegan – [[vocals]]
*Josh Zegan – [[guitar]] and [[background vocals]]
*Jon Howard – [[guitar]]
*Nick Aranda – [[Bass (instrument)|bass]]
*Clayton Hunt – [[drums]]
*Joey Howard – [[roadie]] and [[tech]]

== Discography ==
===Albums===
*''[[On a Search in America]]'' - [[Credential Recordings]] ([[2006]])

===EPs===
*''[[Redemption, Passion, Glory]]'' - [[Credential Recordings]] ([[2006]])

=== Compilations ===
*''[[Stereocilia Vol. 1]]'' - [[Credential Recordings]] ([[2006]])

== External links ==
*[http://www.dizmas.com/ Official Website]

[[Category:Christian rock groups]]
[[Category:Credential Recordings artists]]

{{US-rock-band-stub}}
{{Christian-music-stub}}

Talpiot tomb

2007-03-01T06:33:39Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

{{current}}
[[Image:The_Talpiot_Tomb.jpg|222px|right|thumb|An image of the Talpiot Tomb]]
The '''Talpiot Tomb''' is a tomb discovered in the [[Talpiot]] neighbourhood of [[Jerusalem]], [[Israel]], in 1980. The tomb contained ten [[ossuary|ossuaries]] upon discovery, one of which has since disappeared.

A documentary film produced by [[James Cameron]] and [[Simcha Jacobovici]], ''[[The Lost Tomb of Jesus]]'', and a book written by Jacobovici, ''[[The Jesus Family Tomb]]'', argue that the Talpiot Tomb was the burial place of [[Jesus]], as well as several other [[biblical figure]]s from the [[New Testament]]. This argument is heavily disputed.

==Discovery==
The tomb was discovered in 1980 by workers constructing an apartment complex in the Talpiot neighbourhood of [[Jerusalem]]. The [[Israel Antiquities Authority]] initiated an excavation of the site led by archaeologist [[Amos Kloner]]. The archaeologists were given three days to document and excavate the tomb.<ref name=laidlaw>{{cite web |url=http://www.thestar.com/News/article/185708 |title=Jesus tomb claim sparks furor |last=Laidlaw |first=Stuart |publisher=[[Toronto Star]] |date=2007-02-26 |accessdate=2007-02-28}}</ref> The tomb was determined to be from the [[Second Temple]] period, between 538 B.C. and A.D. 70. Typical of the area, the tomb belonged to a middle to upper-class Jewish family. About 900 similar tombs have been unearthed in the same area.[http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2007/02/070228-jesus-tomb_2.html] Inside the tomb were found three skulls<ref name=laidlaw /> and ten [[ossuary|ossuaries]], with six <ref>http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2007/02/070226-jesus-tomb_2.html</ref>
bearing the inscriptions of names. Following the discovery, the bones contained in the ossuaries were buried in unmarked graves to accord with [[Orthodox Judaism|Orthodox Jewish]] beliefs.[http://www.bpnews.net/bpnews.asp?ID=25053]

==Media coverage==
The [[British Broadcasting Corporation|BBC]] first aired a [[documentary]] on the Talpiot Tomb in 1996 as part of its ''Heart of the Matter'' [[news magazine]].<ref name=laidlaw /> At that time, Amos Kroner, the first [[archaeologist]] to examine the site said the claims of a connection to Jesus did not hold up archaeologically, adding "They just want to get money for it." Others were similarly skeptical, though another of the archaeologists who discovered the tomb admitted "I’m willing to accept the possibility."<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.courier-journal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070227/FEATURES/302270010 |title=Clergy, scholars assail tomb of Jesus film |publisher=The Courier-Journal |date=2007-02-27 |accessdate=2007-02-27}}</ref>

The tomb was featured on the ''[[Today Show]] ''on [[February 26]], [[2007]] where it was mentioned that the ossuaries were sent to [[New York City|New York]].{{Fact|date=February 2007}}

===''The Lost Tomb of Jesus'' and ''The Jesus Family Tomb''===
{{mainarticle|The Lost Tomb of Jesus|The Jesus Family Tomb}}
A second documentary about the tomb, titled ''[[The Lost Tomb of Jesus]]'', has been produced by [[James Cameron]] and [[Simcha Jacobovici]], and will premiere on The [[Discovery Channel]] on [[March 4]], [[2007]]. The documentary is being released in conjunction with Jacobovici's book ''[[The Jesus Family Tomb]]''.

With the help of statisticians, archeologists, historians, DNA experts, robot-camera technicians, epigraphers and a forensic expert from New York's Long Island, Jacobovici argued that the bones of Jesus, Mary and Mary Magdalene, along with some of their lesser-known relatives, were once entombed in this cave. James Charlesworth of the Princeton Theological Seminary consulted with Jacobovici on the project and is intrigued: "A very good claim could be made that this was Jesus' clan.". <ref>http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/17328478/site/newsweek/</ref> Others have expressed skepticism.

==Inscriptions==
[[Image:Jesus_inscription.svg|thumb|right|The inscription attributed to '''Yeshua` bar Yehosef''' is the most disputed.<ref>http://www.nbc11.com/entertainment/11116378/detail.html</ref><ref>http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/02/26/AR2007022600442.html</ref><ref>http://www.aramaicdesigns.com/index.php?title=The_Lost_Tomb_of_Jesus</ref>]]
Six of the ten names are claimed by Jacobovici and others to be associated with figures from the [[New Testament]]. <ref>http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/02/25/tomb_arc.html?category=archaeology&guid=20070225073000</ref> As translated in ''The Lost Tomb of Jesus'' and ''The Jesus Family Tomb'', they read as follows:

*'''''Yeshua` bar Yehosef''''' - "Jesus son of Joseph"
*'''''Maryah''''' - "Mary"
*'''''Yoseh''''' - "Joses," short for "Joseph"
*'''''Mariamene e Mara''''' - "Mary also known as Mara" - (the only inscription in Greek)
*'''''Mattiah''''' - "Matthew" (no relation ever given of a Matthew as being related to Jesus)
*'''''Yehudah bar Yeshua`''''' - "Judas son of Jesus"

Some of these translations are disputed. William G. Dever, a retired professor of archaeology at the University of Arizona, stated that some of the inscriptions are unclear.[http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/02/26/AR2007022600442.html]

==Support==
===Epigraphy===
Four leading epigraphers have corroborated the ossuary inscriptions for ''The Lost Tomb of Jesus'', according to the Discovery Channel.<ref>http://jeremiahandrews.wordpress.com/2007/02/26/a-response-from-my-christian-origins-professor/</ref>

===Statistical report===
On [[February 25]], [[2007]], Andrey Feuerverger, professor of statistics and mathematics at the University of Toronto conducted a statistical calculation on the name cluster as part of ''The Lost Tomb of Jesus''. He concluded that the odds are at least 600 to 1 for the Talpiot Tomb actually being tomb of Jesus' family. The methodology of this study is due to be published in a journal soon, but in the meantime a summary can be found on the Discovery Channel website <ref>http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/02/25/tomb_arc_02.html?category=archaeology&guid=20070225073000</ref><ref>http://dsc.discovery.com/convergence/tomb/explore/explore.html</ref> as well as the Official Site for the documentary [http://www.jesusfamilytomb.com The Lost Tomb of Jesus]<ref>http://www.jesusfamilytomb.com/evidence/probability/jesus_equation.html</ref>.

Feuerverger multiplied the instances that each name appeared during the tomb's time period with the instances of every other name. He initially found "Jesus Son of Joseph" appeared once out of 190 times, Mariamne appeared once out of 160 times and so on. He next divided the resulting numbers by 25 percent, a statistical standard, and further divided the results by 1,000 to attempt to account for all tombs that could have existed in first century Jerusalem, including those that have not yet been uncovered. The study concluded that the odds are at least 600 to 1 in favor of the Talpiot Tomb being the tomb of Jesus and his family. Feuerverger posits that the explanation that the tomb is that of Jesus and his family works 599 times out of 600.<ref>http://www.prnewswire.com/cgi-bin/stories.pl?ACCT=104&STORY=/www/story/02-25-2007/0004533923&EDATE=</ref>

Some of the study's assumptions include:<ref name=laidlaw>{{cite web |url=http://www.thestar.com/News/article/185708 |title=Jesus tomb claim sparks furor |last=Laidlaw |first=Stuart |publisher=[[Toronto Star]] |date=2007-02-26 |accessdate=2007-02-28}}</ref>
*that the Maria on one of the ossuaries is the mother of the Jesus found on another box,
*that Mariamne is his wife
*that Joseph (inscribed as the nickname Jose) is his brother.
*that Jesus is the correct name on his box, whereas "Hanun" might be more accurate (see below)

Feuerverger's conclusions have been called into question. Richard Bauckham compiled the following data to show just how common the names on these ossuaries are:<ref name=witherington>{{cite web |url=http://benwitherington.blogspot.com/2007/02/jesus-tomb-titanic-talpiot-tomb-theory.html |title= The Jesus Tomb? ‘Titanic’ Talpiot Tomb Theory Sunk From The Start |last=Witherington |first=Ben |date=2007-02-26 |accessdate=2007-02-28}}</ref>

:"Out of a total number of 2625 males, these are the figures for the ten most popular male names among Palestinioan Jews. the first figure is the total number of occurrences (from this number, with 2625 as the total for all names, you could calculate percentages), while the second is the number of occurrences specifically on ossuraies."
<center>
{|cellpadding=2 class="wikitable" style="text-align: center" align="center"
|-
!Rank!!Name!!Total References!!Found on Ossuaries!!Percent of Total References (2625)
|-
|1||Simon/Simeon||243||59||9.3%
|-
|2||Joseph||218||45||8.3%
|-
|3||Eleazar||166||29||6.3%
|-
|4||Judah||164||44||6.2%
|-
|5||John/Yohanan||122||25||4.6%
|-
|6||Jesus||99||22||3.8%
|-
|7||Hananiah||82||18||3.1%
|-
|8||Jonathan||71||14||2.7%
|-
|9||Matthew||62||17||2.4%
|-
|10||Manaen/Menahem||42||4||1.6%
|-
|}
</center>
:"For women, we have a total of 328 occurrences (women's names are much less often recorded than men's), and figures for the 4 most popular names are thus:"
<center>
{|cellpadding=2 class="wikitable" style="text-align: center" align="center"
|-
!Rank!!Name!!Total References!!Found on Ossuaries!!Percent of Total References (328)
|-
|1||Mary/Mariamne||70||42||21.3%
|-
|2||Salome||58||41||17.7%
|-
|3||Shelamzion||24||19||7.3%
|-
|4||Martha||20||17||6.1%
|-
|}
</center>

==Criticism==
When interviewed about the upcoming documentary, Amos Kloner, who oversaw the original archaeological dig of this tomb in 1980 said:

:"It makes a great story for a TV film, but it's completely impossible. It's nonsense."<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.townhall.com/Columnists/BrentBozellIII/2007/02/28/what_bones_of_jesus |last=Bozell |first=Brent |title=What Bones of Jesus? |publisher=Townhall.com |date=2007-02-28 |accessdate=2007-02-28}}</ref>

Newsweek reports that the archaeologist who personally numbered the ossuaries dismissed any potential connection:

:"Simcha has no credibility whatsoever," says Joe Zias, who was the curator for anthropology and archeology at the Rockefeller Museum in Jerusalem from 1972 to 1997 and personally numbered the Talpiot ossuaries. "He's pimping off the Bible... He got this guy Cameron, who made 'Titanic' or something like that—what does this guy know about archeology? I am an archaeologist, but if I were to write a book about brain surgery, you would say, 'Who is this guy?' People want signs and wonders. Projects like these make a mockery of the archaeological profession."<ref>http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/17328478/site/newsweek/</ref>

Stephen Pfann, president of Jerusalem's University of the Holy Land and an expert in Semitic languages, who was interviewed in the documentary, also said the film's hypothesis holds little weight:

:"How possible is it?" Pfann said. "On a scale of one through 10 - 10 being completely possible - it's probably a one, maybe a one and a half."<ref>http://www.breitbart.com/news/2007/02/26/D8NHFDRG3.html</ref>

Pfann added that the inscription read as "Jesus" has been misread by suggesting that the name "Hanun" might be a more accurate rendering.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/world/story/3894198p-4503665c.html |last=Matthews |first=Karen |title=Jesus tomb claim derided
|publisher=Winnipeg Free Press |date=2007-02-27 |accessdate=2007-02-27}}</ref>

[[Asbury Theological Seminary]]'s Dr. Ben Witherington III (who has been aware of the tomb since 1980) points out some other circumstantial problems with linking this tomb to Christ.<ref name=witherington />
*"So far as we can tell, the earliest followers of Jesus never called Jesus ‘son of Joseph’. It was outsiders who mistakenly called him that."
*"The ancestral home of Joseph was Bethlehem, and his adult home was Nazareth. The family was still in Nazareth after he [Joseph] was apparently dead and gone. Why in the world would he be buried (alone at this point) in Jerusalem?"
*"One of the ossuaries has the name Jude son of Jesus. We have no historical evidence of such a son of Jesus, indeed we have no historical evidence he was ever married."
*"The Mary ossuaries (there are two) do not mention anyone from Migdal. It simply has the name Mary-- and that's about the most common of all ancient Jewish female names."
*"We have names like Matthew on another ossuary, which don't match up with the list of [Jesus's] brothers' names."
*"By all ancient accounts, the tomb of Jesus was empty-- even the Jewish and Roman authorities acknowledged this. Now it takes a year for the flesh to desiccate, and then you put the man's bones in an ossuary. But Jesus' body was long gone from Joseph of Arimathea's tomb well before then. Are we really to believe it was moved to another tomb, decayed, and then was put in an ossuary?"
*"Implicitly you must accuse James, Peter and John (mentioned in Gal. 1-2-- in our earliest NT document from 49 A.D.) of fraud and coverup. Are we really to believe that they knew Jesus didn't rise bodily from the dead but perpetrated a fraudulent religion, for which they and others were prepared to die? Did they really hide the body of Jesus in another tomb?"
*"We need to remember that the James in question is Jesus' brother, who certainly would have known about a family tomb. This frankly is impossible for me to believe."

Other theologians have also disputed this claim, with the Israel Museum's Mevorah calling it "a good trick."

==Connection to the James Ossuary==
{{mainarticle|James Ossuary}}
In [[The Jesus Family Tomb]], Simicha Jacobovici claims the [[James Ossuary]] would have been a part of this tomb, but was removed by artifact dealers, and thus discovered separately.<ref>http://dsc.discovery.com/convergence/tomb/explore/explore.html</ref> The James Ossuary's authenticity has been called into question, and one of its past owners has been charged with fraud in connection to the artifact.

Ben Witherington, who worked with Jacobovici on a Discovery Channel documentary on the James Ossuary, denies this connection on two grounds:
*"The James ossuary, according to the report of the antiquities dealer that Oded Golan got the ossuary from, said that the ossuary came from Silwan, not Talpiot, and had dirt in it that matched up with the soil in that particular spot in Jerusalem."
*"Furthermore, Eusebius reports that the tomb marker for James' burial was close to where James was martyred near the temple mount, indeed near the famous tombs in the Kidron valley such as the so-called tomb of Absalom. Talpiot is nowhere near this locale."<ref name=witherington />

Another consideration is that the measurements of the James Ossuary do not match the measurements listed for the tenth ossuary, which is no longer stored with the rest of the collection. The James Ossuary is listed as being approximately 50 centimeters long by 30 centimeters wide on one end, and 25.5 centimeters on the other end <ref>http://www.bibleinterp.com/articles/Official_Report.htm</ref>. The tenth ossuary in the Talpiot collection is listed as 60 centimeters long by 26 centimeters by 30 centimeters<ref>http://www.jerusalemperspective.com/Default.aspx?tabid=27&ArticleID=1924#foot3</ref>.

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==See also==
*''[[The Lost Tomb of Jesus]]'' (documentary by James Cameron about the Talpiot Tomb)
*''[[The Jesus Family Tomb]]'' (book that accompanies the above documentary)
*[[Death and resurrection of Jesus]]
*[[Church of the Holy Sepulchre]] (the traditional tomb of Jesus)
*[[James Ossuary]]

==External links==
*[http://www.prnewswire.com/cgi-bin/stories.pl?ACCT=104&STORY=/www/story/02-25-2007/0004533923&EDATE= Jesus Family Tomb Believed Found]
*[http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/17328478/site/newsweek/ MSNBC Newsweek story]
*[http://dsc.discovery.com/news/2007/02/25/tomb_arc.html?category=archaeology&guid=20070225073000 Discovery channel news story]
*[http://www.jesusfamilytomb.com Official Site for the Lost Tomb of Jesus]
*[http://www.tombofjesus.org TombOfJesus.org]--Analysis of various claims regarding Jesus' burial place

[[Category:Buildings and structures in Israel]]
[[Category:Cemeteries]]

[[fr:Tombeau de Talpiot]]

Ash wednesday

2007-03-01T06:32:34Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

{{Infobox Holiday
|holiday_name = Ash Wednesday
|type = Christian
|image = Ashcross.jpg
|caption = A cross of ash on a worshipper's forehead on Ash Wednesday
|observedby = Western Christians
|date = Changes with Easter
|date2007 = February 21st
|date2008 = February 6th
|observances = [[Service of worship]] or [[Mass (liturgy)|Mass]]Marking of an ash cross on the forehead
|relatedto = [[Shrove Tuesday]]/[[Mardi Gras]][[Lent]][[Easter]]
}}
In the [[Western_Christianity|Western Christian]] [[calendar]], '''Ash Wednesday''' is the first day of [[Lent]] and occurs forty-six days before [[Easter]]. It falls on different dates from year to year, according to the [[Computus|date of Easter]]; it can occur as early as [[February 4]] or as late as [[March 10]].
Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the Lenten season, which lasts until [[Maundy Thursday]] evening.

==Practices of worship and observance==
At [[Mass (liturgy)|Mass]]es and [[Service of worship|services of worship]] on this day, worshipers are imposed with ashes by the celebrating [[clergy|clergyperson]]. The [[priest]] or [[Minister (Christianity)|minister]] marks the forehead of each participant with black ashes, in the shape of a cross, which the worshiper traditionally retains until washing it off after sundown. In many Christian churches, the minister of ashes may also be a [[layperson]] or non-[[clergy]]. The symbolism echoes the ancient [[Middle East|Near Eastern]] tradition of throwing ash over one's head signifying [[repentance]] before [[God]] (as related in the [[Bible]]). The priest or minister offers the worshiper an instruction while applying the ashes. These are three examples:

{{Quotation|Remember that you are dust,
and unto dust you shall return.
:(Latin: ''Memento homo, quia pulvis es, et in pulverem reverteris.'')|[[God]]|[[Genesis]] 3:19}}

{{Quotation|Turn away from sin and be faithful to the Gospel.|[[Jesus]]|[[Mark]] 1:15}}

{{Quotation|Repent, and hear the good news.||}}

[[Image:Carl Spitzweg 003.jpg|left|thumb|150px|"Ash Wednesday" by [[Carl Spitzweg]]: the end of [[Carnival]]]]
The ashes used in the service of worship or mass are [[sacramentals]], not a [[sacrament]]. The ashes are prepared by burning [[Arecaceae|palm]] leaves from the previous year's [[Palm Sunday]] celebrations and mixing them with [[olive oil]] as a fixative.

In most liturgies for Ash Wednesday, the [[Penitential_psalms|Penitential psalms]] are read; [[Psalm 51]] is especially associated with this day. The service also often includes a corporate confession rite. Unlike the confessional rites used on Sundays and other services, there is no [[absolution]] (or 'assurance of pardon/forgiveness', as it is known in Reformed and other Protestant traditions) pronounced at the conclusion; rather, the Ash Wednesday confession rite frames the whole Lenten season, with the absolution or assurance of pardon being given at the opening of the [[Maundy Thursday]] liturgy.

In the [[Roman Catholic Church]], Ash Wednesday is observed by [[fasting]], [[abstinence]] from meat, and [[repentance]]—a day of contemplating one's transgressions. The [[Anglicanism|Anglican]] [[Book of Common Prayer]] also designates Ash Wednesday as a day of fasting. In other [[Christian denominations]] these practices are optional, with the main focus being on [[repentance]]. On Ash Wednesday and [[Good Friday]], Roman Catholics between the ages of 18 and 59 are permitted to consume only one full meal, which may be supplemented by two smaller meals, which together should not equal the full meal. Some Roman Catholics will go beyond the minimum obligations demanded by the Church and undertake a complete fast or a bread and water fast. Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are also days of abstinence from meat(for those Catholics age 14 and over), as are all Fridays in Lent. Some Roman Catholics continue fasting during the whole of Lent, as was the Church's traditional requirement, concluding only after the celebration of the [[Easter Vigil]].

As the first day of Lent, it comes the day after [[Shrove Tuesday]] or [[Mardi Gras]] (Fat Tuesday), the last day of the [[Carnival]] season. According to the [[Oxford English Dictionary]], the word "Carnival" is derived from [[Church Latin|Latin]] ''carnem levare'' (removal of the meat) or ''carnem laxare'' (leaving the meat).

==Biblical significance==
Ash Wednesday is a time for repentance and the beginning of Lent. Ashes were used in ancient times, according to the Bible, to express [[penitence]]. Dusting themselves with [[Ash|ashes]] was the penitent's way of expressing sorrow for sins and faults. An ancient example of one expressing his penitence is found in [[Book of Job|Job]] 42:3-6. Job says to God: "I have heard of thee by the hearing of the ear: but now mine eye seeth thee. Wherefore I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes." (c. 5-6, [[KJV]]) Other examples are found in several other [[Books of the Bible|books of the Bible]] including, [[Book of Numbers|Numbers]] 19:9, 17, [[Epistle to the Hebrews|Hebrews]] 9:13, [[Book of Jonah|Jonah]] 3:6, [[Gospel of Matthew|Matthew]] 11:21, and [[Gospel of Luke|Luke]] 10:13.

However, some [[Christians]], who do not celebrate Ash Wednesday, say that the practice is not consistent with [[Holy Bible|Scripture]]. They usually cite [[Gospel of Matthew|Matthew]] 6:16–18, where Jesus gave guidelines for fasting: "And whenever you fast, do not look dismal, like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces so as to show others that they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that your fasting may be seen not by others but by your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you." (NRSV) These groups argue that [[Jesus]] warned against fasting to gain favor from other people and that he also warned his followers that they should fast in private, not letting others know they were [[fasting]]. For these reasons, some Christian denominations do not endorse the practice. Others, however, point out that this very passage from Matthew is the one, not coincidentally, that is appointed by the [[Revised Common Lectionary]] to be ''read'' on Ash Wednesday.

==Dates==

In [[2008]], Ash Wednesday falls on [[February 6]]. Ash Wednesday will occur on the following dates in the following years:
* [[2008]] - [[February 6]]
* [[2009]] - [[February 25]]
* [[2010]] - [[February 17]]
* [[2011]] - [[March 9]]
* [[2012]] - [[February 22]]
* [[2013]] - [[February 13]]
* [[2014]] - [[March 5]]
* [[2015]] - [[February 18]]
* [[2016]] - [[February 10]]
* [[2017]] - [[March 1]]
* [[2018]] - [[February 14]]
* [[2019]] - [[March 6]]

== Denominations observing Ash Wednesday ==
These [[Christian denominations]] are among those that mark Ash Wednesday by holding a [[service of worship]] or [[Mass (liturgy)|Mass]]:

* [[Anglican Church|Anglican/Episcopal churches]]
* [[Lutheran Church|Lutheran churches]]
* [[United Methodist Church|Methodist churches]]
* [[Reformed churches|Reformed churches]] ([[Presbyterian]], [[United Church of Christ]], others)
* [[Roman Catholic Church]]
* [[Wesleyan Church|Wesleyan churches]]


== External links ==
* [http://www.ash-wednesday.org Ash Wednesday history, reflections, prayers]
* [http://www.liturgies.net/Lent/AshWednesday.htm An Episcopal Ash Wednesday Service]
* [http://www.textweek.com/festivals/ash.htm The Text This Week:] Ash Wednesday
* [http://www.upperroom.org/askjulian/default.asp?act=answer&itemid=39734 Upper Room Ministries: Biblical Significance of Ash Wednesday]
* [http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/easter.html Dates of Ash Wednesday from 1583 - 9999]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ash_Wednesday_%28poem%29 Wikipedia article on T.S. Eliot's poem, ''Ash Wednesday'']

[[Category:Wednesday]]
[[Category:Christian festivals]]

[[als:Aschermittwoch]]
[[be:Папялец]]
[[ca:Dimecres de cendra]]
[[cs:Popeleční středa]]
[[pdc:Aschermittwoch]]
[[de:Aschermittwoch]]
[[es:Miércoles de ceniza]]
[[eo:Cindra Merkredo]]
[[fr:Mercredi des Cendres]]
[[ga:Céadaoin an Luathraigh]]
[[ko:재의 수요일]]
[[hr:Pepelnica]]
[[id:Rabu Abu]]
[[it:Mercoledì delle Ceneri]]
[[he:יום רביעי של האפר]]
[[la:Dies Cinerum]]
[[lb:Äschermëttwoch]]
[[lt:Pelenų diena]]
[[li:Asselegoonsdag]]
[[nl:Aswoensdag]]
[[ja:灰の水曜日]]
[[no:Askeonsdag]]
[[nn:Oskeonsdag]]
[[pl:Popielec]]
[[pt:Quarta-feira de cinzas]]
[[ksh:Äschermeddvoch]]
[[ru:Пепельная среда]]
[[sl:Pepelnična sreda]]
[[sv:Askonsdagen]]
[[zh:大齋首日]]

Jesus Movement

2007-02-17T07:59:54Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

{{dablink|For the first century movement surrounding [[Jesus of Nazareth]], see [[Early Christianity]]}}
The '''Jesus movement''' was the major [[Christian]] element within the [[hippie]] [[counterculture]], or, conversely, the major hippie element within [[The Body of Christ]].{{Fact|date=February 2007}} Members of the movement are called ''Jesus people'', or ''[[Jesus freak]]s''. The movement arose on the [[West Coast of the United States]] in the late [[1960s]] and early [[1970s]], and spread primarily through [[North America]] and [[Europe]], before dying out by the early [[1980s]]. The Jesus movement left a legacy of various [[Christian denomination|denomination]]s and other Christian organizations, an impact on the development of the contemporary both the [[Christian right]] and the [[Christian left]], and [[Jesus music]], which greatly influenced [[contemporary Christian music]]. The worship services in the Jesus movement paved the way for the development of modern [[worship music]]. The term ''Jesus movement'' is also used to refer to the [[Early Christianity|early followers of Jesus]].<ref>[http://www.pbs.org/wgbh//pages/frontline//shows/religion/first/themovement.html PBS: Frontline: From Jesus to Christ: The First Christians: The Jesus Movement]</ref>

==Origins==
The terms ''Jesus movement'' and ''Jesus people'' were coined by [[Duane Pederson]] in his writings for the [[Hollywood Free Paper]]. The term ''Jesus freak'' was originally a [[pejorative]] label imposed on the group by non-Christian hippies, but members of the Jesus movement reclaimed the phrase as a positive self-identifier.

Though still a part of the broader hippie movement, the Jesus movement was partly a reaction against the counterculture from which it originated. Some people became disenchanted with the [[status quo]] and became hippies. Later, some of these people became disenchanted with the hippie [[lifestyle]] and became Jesus people. {{Fact|date=February 2007}} However, the Jesus movement kept many of the mannerisms and styles of the hippies, but changed the cultural content to reflect their newfound Christian faith. For example, the Jesus people gave hippie [[slang]] a Christian spin: "[[free love]]", {{Fact|date=February 2007}} instead of designating a rejection of traditional morality regarding sex, became the free ([[agape]]) love of [[God]] and people; phrases like "One Way" supplanted the focus on the individual with a focus on God, and; "Just Drop [[Jesus]]" replaced "dropping" [[LSD|acid]] or being "high on Jesus".

The Jesus movement was part of what some consider to be the [[Fourth Great Awakening]], one of the periodic shifts in religious thinking that have occurred throughout American history.

==Beliefs and practices==
The Jesus movement was [[restorationism|restorationist]] in [[theology]], seeking to return to the original life of the early Christians. As a result, Jesus people often viewed mainline denominations, especially those in the United States, as [[apostasy|apostate]], and took a decidedly [[anti-American sentiment|anti-American]] political stance in general. The theology of the Jesus movement also called for a return to [[asceticism]]. Also, the Jesus people had a strong belief in [[miracle]]s, [[signs and wonders]], [[faith healing]], [[spiritual possession]] and [[exorcism]]. For example, a miracle-filled revival at [[Asbury College]] in 1970 grabbed the attention of the secular news media and became known nation-wide [http://forerunner.com/asbury/asbury2006.html]
as told in the book One Divine Movement. [http://www.francisasburysociety.com/booksprayer.htm]

The movement tended towards strong [[evangelism]] and [[millennialism]]. The group's theology rejected the [[excluded middle]]. What they lacked in theological depth, Jesus people made up for in [[zeal]] for Christ and love of others. They strived for [[social justice]] and seemed to simply be in love with Jesus. Some of the most read books by those within the movement included [[Ron Sider]]'s ''[[Rich Christians in an Age of Hunger]]'' and [[Hal Lindsey]]'s ''[[The Late Great Planet Earth]]''.

Perhaps the most illustrative aspect of the Jesus movement was its communal aspect. Most Jesus People lived in [[commune (intentional community)|commune]]s. Though there were some groups, such as the [[Calvary Chapel]] movement, which did not live in communes, these remained more on the fringes of the Jesus movement. Within the commune, the group became more important than the individual, and communal sharing of possessions was the norm. Some of these communes became highly [[authoritarian]].

==Jesus music==
{{main|Jesus music}}
There has been a long legacy of Christian music connected to the Jesus movement. Jesus music, also known as gospel beat music in the [[United Kingdom|UK]], primarily began when some hippie and street musicians of the late 1960s and early 1970s converted to Christianity. They continued to play the same style of music they had played previously, but began to write lyrics with a [[Christian (disambiguation)|Christian]] message. Many music groups developed out of this, and some became leaders within the Jesus movement, most notably [[Barry McGuire]], [[Love Song (band)|Love Song]], [[2nd Chapter of Acts|Second Chapter of Acts]], [[Servant (band)|Servant]], [[Petra (band)|Petra]], [[Resurrection Band]], [[Larry Norman]], [[Phil Keaggy]], [[Randy Stonehill]], [[Randy Matthews]], [[Andrae Crouch|Andraé Crouch (and the Disciples)]], and later [[Keith Green]]. The [[Joyful Noise]] Band traveled with a Christian community throughout the U.S. & Europe, performing in festivals held underneath giant tents. In the UK, [[Malcolm and Alwyn]] were the most notable agents of the gospel beat.

==Organizations==
===Calvary Chapel===
Unlike many other Christian movements, there was no single leader or figurehead of the Jesus movement. Some of the larger names include [[Duane Pederson]], founding editor of the [[Hollywood Free Paper]]; [[Jack Sparks]], who led the [[Christian World Liberation Front]], as well as: [[Lonnie Frisbee]], who worked for a time along with [[Chuck Smith (pastor)|Chuck Smith]], who founded the [[Calvary Chapel]] movement. Frisbee was a key evangelist during the growth of the Calvary churches; Smith was one of the few pastors who welcomed in the [[Jesus Freak]]s, and thus allowed for the dramatic future growth of his affiliate church network. Sparks and Pederson later became priests in the [[Eastern Orthodox Church]]. The international [[Potter's House Christian Fellowship|Potter's House]] Church (CFM) was birthed out of this movement.

===Children of God===
Another early leader was [[Linda Meissner]], who formed the [[Jesus People Army]] in [[Seattle, Washington|Seattle]]. She later joined her group with the [[Children of God]], not discovering until later the controversial practices of that group.

===Jesus People USA===
One of Meissner's disciples was [[Jim Palosaari]], who, along with his wife, Sue, started a number of Christian communes, [[discipleship]] schools (to develop theological depth), and [[rock band]]s. One group toured through Europe, developing Christian music and drama. Another eventually became [[Jesus People USA]] (JPUSA), the largest and most enduring of the Jesus people communes.

===Jesus Army===
In the UK, the [[Jesus Army]] was among the groups most influenced by the Jesus movement, embracing (former) hippies, bikers and drug addicts, among others. Many of the church adopted a communal lifestyle, which continues to this day.

===Christ Is The Answer===
Beginning in 1971, [[Christ Is The Answer]] took the concept of Christian community in a unique direction. Originally comprised of former hippies, musicians, and artists, this mobile group featured Christian rock music, theatrical presentations, and discipleship preaching underneath a giant tent ( a la [[Jesus Christ Superstar]] and [[Godspell]]). Their traveling festivals were held in cities throughout the U.S. & Europe. CITA's [[New Manna]] national street paper was cutting-edge with its challenging editorial content, relevant cartoons, and observations about mainstream society and church life. Evangelistic outreach teams were sent to various nations throughout the world, many of which are still in operation today.

===Fellowship House Church===
Steve Freeman and others opened the Kingdom Come Christian Coffee House in [[Greenville, South Carolina]], in [[1971]]. Each Saturday night hippies and Jesus People gathered for worship, songs and fellowship. In [[1972]], several people who were highly involved in the Kingdom Come graduated from high schools and dispersed in several colleges and universities throughout the Southeastern United States. Each one started a [[Fellowship House Church]]. [[Maynard Pittendreigh]] established one at [[Erskine College]], [[Jay Holmes]] established one at the [[University of South Carolina]], [[Steve Freeman]] established on at [[Furman University]], etc. Leadership moved from Steve Freeman to a charismatic preacher named [[Erskine Holt]], a self-described apostle of the movement who lived in Florida. By 1973, nearly every campus throughout Florida, South Carolina, North Carolina and Georgia had Fellowship House Churches. These generally died out by 1977, with many of the members moving to more traditional campus ministries. Many, however, moved onto similar ministry in such organizations as [[Calvary Chapel]].

==Decline and legacy==
Perhaps the height of the Jesus movement was in the week-long gathering in [[Dallas, Texas]] known as [[Explo '72]], which brought the hippies of the Jesus movement together with young people from traditional, Christian families and churches. [[Explo '72]] was a very positive part of the Jesus movement, but the event was organized by the very traditional [[Campus Crusade for Christ]] and involved such traditional leaders as [[Bill Bright]] and [[Billy Graham]]. Many of the young Jesus People attending Explo '72 discovered for the first time these and other traditional avenues of Christian worship, growth and experience. While Explo served as the height of the Jesus movement, in many ways it provided an exit from the movement for many of its members.

As society changed, the Jesus movement did not adapt its methods. Since it was primarily a reaction to the hippie counterculture, as the hippie movement died out, the Jesus movement lost its relevance. In addition, the [[Jonestown]] mass murder-and-suicide, though scarcely related to the Jesus movement, tarnished the image of religious communal living. By the early 1980s, the Jesus movement had, for the most part, died out. Its influence persists, however, in the alternative Christian music industry, Calvary Chapels (and CC's 1982 breakoff movement [[Association of Vineyard Churches|Vineyard Fellowship]]), and JPUSA and The Jesus Army, all of which found ways to stay relevant in a rapidly changing culture. Christian writer [[Maynard Pittendreigh]] made the observation that most of those in the Jesus movement moved as individuals into different churches. Some moved into the Calvary Chapels with its emphasis on charismatic theology, less traditional worship and contemporary music, while others moved into very traditional and liturgical churches.

Contributing to this break away was the dissatisfaction with outcomes. Expectations ran high for many believers in those days, including strong desires for spiritual gifts, prosperity, ministry, and healing, most of which was promised to them by faith doctrines received from the Word of Faith community. When hopes were dashed, unbelief set in. Eventually, goals once held precious were doubted and/or disputed.

Also, an intense preoccupation with all things Charismatic lacked balance. It did not well prepare young men and women for the realities of responsible living, but instead told them that if they gave enough money in support of the church, they would greatly prosper. In truth, many found themselves more prepared for spiritual warfare than they were for gainful employment and a solid financial future. Breaking away from the fold, and away from the intensity of the group, was a necessity for those who chose to enroll into colleges located away from their church home; after which came career-oriented activities, matrimony and family responsibilities.

==References==
<references/>

==Bibliography==

<div style="font-size: 90%">
* Di Sabatino, David. ''The Jesus People Movement: An Annotated Bibliography and General Resource'' (Westport, CT: Greenwood Press, 1999). [[www.jesuspeoplemovement.com]]
* {{cite book|title=The First Christians:the Jesus Movement|last=White|first=L. Michael|publisher= [http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/shows/religion/first/themovement.html] }}
* {{cite book|title=(Re)discovering fundamentalism in the cultural margins: Calvary Chapel congregations as sites of cultural resistance and religious transformation|last=Jensen|first=Lori Jolene, Ph.D.|publisher=University of Southern California|year=2000}}
* {{cite book|title=Delicate balances: Rearticulating gender ideology and rules for sexuality in a Jesus People communal movement|last=Isaacson|first=Lynne Marie, Ph.D.|publisher=University of Oregon|year=1996}}
* {{cite book|title=The origins, nature, and significance of the Jesus Movement as a revitalization movement|last=Smith|first=Kevin John, D.Miss.|year=2003|publisher=Asbury Theological Seminary}}
* {{cite book|title=Communitas to structure: a dynamic social network analysis of an urban Jesus People Community|last=Ridout-Stewart|first=Caroline, M.A.|publisher=McGill University|year=1974}}
* {{cite book|title=Hippies of the religious Right: The counterculture and American evangelicalism in the 1960s and 1970s|last=Shires|first=Preston David, Ph.D.|publisher=University of Nebraska, Lincoln|year=2002}}
* {{cite book|title=A Comparison of the effects of urban and suburban location on structure and identity in two Jesus people groups|last=Gordon|first=David Frederick, Ph.D.|publisher=University of Chicago|year=1978}}
* {{cite book|title=Jesus People: a religious movement in a mid-western city|last=Bookman|first=Sally Dobson Ph.D.|publisher=University of California, Berkeley|year=1974}}
* {{cite book|title=A theological and historical assessment of the Jesus people phenomenon|last=Wagner|first=Frederick Norman, Ph.D.|publisher=Fuller Theological Seminary|year=1971}}
* {{cite book|title=Press coverage of four twentieth-century evangelical religious movements, 1967-1997|last=Griffith|first=Jack Garrison, Jr., Ph.D.|publisher=University of Southern Mississippi|year=2004}}
* {{cite book|title=Jesus people to Promise Keepers: A revival sequence and its effect on late twentieth-century evangelical ideas of masculinity|last=Chrasta|first=Michael James, Ph.D.|publisher=University of Texas at Dallas|year=1998|}}
* {{cite book|title=The origins, development and nature of Pentecostalism in Ulster, 1907 - c. 1925: A study in historical and theological contextualisation|last=Robinson|first=James, Ph.D.|publisher=Queen's University of Belfast|year=2001|}}
* {{cite book|title=Early American Pentecostalism and the issues of race, gender, war, and poverty: A history of the belief system and social witness of early twentieth century Pentacostalism and its nineteenth century holiness roots|last=Smalridge|first=Scott, M.A.|publisher=McGill University|year=1999|}}
* {{cite book|title=Theological roots of pentecostalism|last=Dayton|first=Donald Wilbrr, Ph.D.|publisher=University of Chicago|year=1983|}}
* Ronald M. Enroth, Edward E. Ericson and C. Breckinridge Peters, ''The Jesus People: Old-Time Religion in the Age of Aquarius'' (Grand Rapids: William B. Eerdmans, 1972). ISBN 0-8028-1443-3
* Donald Heinz, "The Christian World Liberation Front," in ''The New Religious Consciousness'', Charles Y. Glock and [[Robert N. Bellah]], eds. (Berkeley and Los Angeles: University of California Press, 1976) pp. 143-161. ISBN 0-520-03083-4
* Edward E. Plowman, ''The Jesus Movement'' (London: Hodder and Stoughton, 1972). ISBN 0-340-16125-6
* Young, Shawn David, M.A., Hippies, Jesus Freaks, and Music (Ann Arbor: Xanedu/Copley Original Works, 2005). ISBN 1-59399-201-7
*'''Frisbee: The Life And Death Of a Hippie Preacher''' A Jester Media production. Produced, directed by David Di Sabatino. [http://www.lonniefrisbee.com lonniefrisbee.com]
</div>

==See also==
* [[Hippy]]
* [[Pentecostalism]]
* [[Calvary Chapel]]
* [[Children of God]]
* [[Lonnie Frisbee]]
* [[Jesus freak]]
* [[Jesus Freaks (youth movement)]]

==External links==
* [http://www.lonniefrisbee.com/ Lonnie Frisbee]
* [http://video.yahoo.com/video/play?p=Lonnie+Frisbee&ei=UTF-8&b=1&oid=7b130ee5f0f6760e&rurl=www.one-way.org Jesus movement Video Mpeg ]
* [http://www.jpusa.org JPUSA]
* [http://www.one-way.org/jesusmusic/index.html One-Way.org]
* [http://www.one-way.org/jesusmovement/index.html Remembering the Jesus Movement]
* [http://www.geocities.com/abdulmuhib Palosaari's Page]
* [http://www.hollywoodfreepaper.org Hollywood Free Paper and Movement history]
* [http://www.zoecarnate.com/#hippie Jesus Movements Past and Present]
* [http://www.hippiechristian.org HippieChristian.org]
* [http://www.jesusfreak.com JesusFreak.com]
* [http://www.projectpeace.com/ Project Peace]
* [http://www.michaelmaddox.info/ Michael Maddox]
* [http://www.storymaddoxgallery.com/ Story Maddox Gallery]

[[Category:Charismatic and Pentecostal Christianity]]
[[Category:Christian group structuring]]
[[Category:New religious movements]]
[[Category:Hippy movement]]
[[Category:Jesus Movement]]

[[de:Jesus-People]]
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[[no:Jesusbevegelsen]]
[[sv:Jesusfolket]]

Christian punk

2007-02-17T07:58:33Z

Jesusfreakdotcom:

{{Christian music}}
'''Christian punk''' (or '''Christ punk''' as it is also called as a reference to [[crust punk]]) is a form of [[Christian alternative music]] and a [[genre|subgenre]] of [[punk rock]] with some degree  of [[Christian]] lyrical content. Much disagreement persists about the boundaries of the subgenre, and the extent that their lyrics are explicitly Christian varies among bands. For example, the seminal band [[The Crucified]] explicitly rejected the classification in their songs.<ref>{{cite web
|title=I'm Not a Christian Punk
|work=The Crucified Page
|url=http://www.crucifyd.com/crucified/records/demos/lyrics/nailed_001.html
|accessdate=2006-10-19}}</ref>



Christian punk bands that target a Christian audience explicitly state their [[belief]]s and use overt Christian imagery in their lyrics may be considered a part of the [[contemporary Christian music]] (CCM) industry; some observers would consider this music to fall outside the scope of Christian punk.

Given the edginess of punk and some of its sub-genres, such as [[hardcore punk]], many bands have been rejected by the Christian and CCM music industry.{{Fact|date=February 2007}} Some bands generally avoid specific mention of [[God]] or [[Jesus]]; likewise some bands may specifically reject the CCM label or express disdain for that niche of the music industry. For example, [[Ninety Pound Wuss]] vocalist Jeff Suffering said about the breakup of the band in 2000, "...[N]obody wanted to continue playing in [the] "Christian" music industry." <ref name="SufferingQuote">{{cite web
|publisher=SHZine
|title=Ninety Pound Wuss - Raft of Dead Monkeys: Jeff Suffering
|date=2000-06
|url=http://www.shzine.com/interview-suffering.asp
|accessdate=2006-10-19}}</ref> [[Tooth & Nail Records]], a major record label for Christian punk bands, distributes albums by their bands in [[Christian bookstore]]s; several of their bands whose albums they distribute to Christian stores do not call themselves Christian bands, and some of these also have some members who do not identify themselves Christians. Tooth & Nail does not identify themselves as a Christian label <ref name="PunknewsToothAndNail">{{cite web
|title=Punknews.org
|work=About Tooth & Nail Records
|accessyear=2007
|accessdate=January 30
|url=http://www.punknews.org/labels/toothandnail}}</ref>, but since they have had openly Christian bands on their roster such as [[The O.C. Supertones]], [[Project 86]], and [[Thousand Foot Krutch]], their other bands are also often distributed to Christian stores.

Related genres are [[Christian hardcore|Christian hardcore and metalcore]], [[Christian rock]], [[Christian alternative music]] and [[Christian metal]].

== History ==
{{Punkbox}}
=== Origins ===
Christian punk's origins during the wider [[1980s]] punk rock scene are somewhat obscure. As the [[Jesus Movement]] gave rise to cultural institutions such as [[Jesus People USA]] (JPUSA), these served as an incubator for various Christian [[subculture]]s including [[Punk Rock|punk]], in part through JPUSA's label [[Grrr Records]]. [[Crashdog]] is one characteristically punk band that was rooted in JPUSA.<ref name="ChgoReader">{{cite news
|last=Mehr
|first=Bob
|publisher=Chicago Reader
|title=Giving the God Squad a Fair Shake
|url=http://www.chicagoreader.com/TheMeter/041119.html
|accessdate=2006-10-19}}</ref>

In the 1980's many bands performed at [[Chuck Smith]]'s [[Calvary Chapel]] in Orange County California.{{Fact|date=February 2007}} A particularly popular group with a cult following was [[Undercover (band)|Undercover]], who proclaimed that "God Rules" with a combination of rockabilly and hardcore elements.{{Fact|date=February 2007}} Another early influential group were the [[Altar Boys]].

[[The Crucified]] and (to a lesser extent) [[Circle of Dust]] and [[Under Midnight]] were major players in proto Christian Punk.{{Fact|date=February 2007}}

The [[Cornerstone Festival]] provided an important venue for Christian punk bands.

{{See also|Christian hardcore}}

=== Growth of the scene ===
During the [[1990s]] the underground scene grew as bands such as [[Officer Negative]] and [[Headnoise]] greatly influenced many of their peers.{{Fact|date=February 2007}}

=== Emergence into the mainstream ===
In the [[21st century]] developments in Christian punk parallels broader punk, with [[pop punk]] bands such as [[Relient K]], [[Hawk Nelson]], [[FM Static]] and [[This Providence]] very popular with the mainstream crowd, but they started as Christian bands, playing at church groups and youth gatherings. [[Chicago, Illinois|Chicago]]-based [[Celtic punk]] band [[Flatfoot 56]] has also recently started to gain popularity.

Other bands with Christian roots that have become very popular within their genres are [[Zao (band)|Zao]], [[As I Lay Dying]], [[Still Remains]], [[Norma Jean]] and [[Demon Hunter]] ([[metalcore]]), and [[Underoath]] and [[mewithoutYou]] ([[post-hardcore]]).

There are also [[secular]] bands that contain Christian songwriters who, despite the varying beliefs of the individual band members, sometimes write lyrics that have clear Christian themes (e.g. [[Thrice]] or [[Comeback Kid]]).

Chirstian punk record labels include [[Tooth & Nail Records]] and its subsidiaries [[Solid State Records]] and [[BEC Recordings]]; [[The Militia Group]], which signs groups that straddle the boundary between Christian and secular music; [[Flicker Records]], owned and operated by the members of [[Audio Adrenaline]]; [[Gotee Records]], owned and operated by [[TobyMac]] of [[dc Talk]]; and up-and-comer [[Mono vs. Stereo]].

== Fashion ==
[[Image:A-O.jpg|thumb|left]]
Fashion is similar to normal [[punk fashion]], but also includes the Christian [[Ichthys]], the [[cross]], a [[crown of thorns]], the JCHC symbol, and similar symbols.{{Fact|date=February 2007}} [[Labarum|Chi Rho]] is a popular symbol amongst more [[Christian anarchy|anarcho-Christian]] bands, such as [[The Psalters]] [http://www.psalters.com/]. However, The Psalters are not considered, to the extent of the Christian Punk genre, to be a true "Christian Punk band."{{Fact|date=February 2007}} In [[Europe]] the most used symbol is the [[anarchist symbolism|anarchy symbol]], modified as it might become an '''A''' and '''Ω'''.{{Fact|date=February 2007}} This is the Greek alphabet symbol for "Alpha" & "Omega" (the English equivalent is "A" and "Z".; which in Christian symbology means that God is the omnipresent, such as seen in {{bibleverse||Revelation|1:8|31}}. The symbol is a visual play on the [[anarchy symbol]] but with a different meaning and intent.

==Christian and Punk==
===Christian punk and religion===
Acceptance of Christian punk is at times challenged both amongst members of the [[punk subculture]] and in some Christian churches. There are strong elements of [[anti-authoritarianism]] in both, such as challenging the uncritical acceptance of [[social norms]] in the church and the world. [[One Bad Pig]]'s demo, ''A Christian Banned'', drew its name from the band's struggle to gain acceptance in Christian circles because of their punk sound and image.

One illustration of this is seen in the concept of "anticonformity", which can be seen in Christian punk music, including the song "Anticonformity" by [[Krystal Meyers]]. Within this perspective, the Christian's view of anticonformity is different from the punk view. The Christian's reason for anticonformity is found in the Biblical [[Epistle to the Romans]]: "Do not conform to the patterns of this world, but be transformed." [[Popular culture]] is also commented on and/or satirized by Christian punk bands. One of Relient K's most popular songs from their self-titled debut album, "[[My Girlfriend]]", contained the line, "[[Marilyn Manson]] ate my girlfriend." [[Calibretto 13]] wrote songs against [[MTV]] ("Why Can't I Be on MTV?") and conformity ("Sheep of the USA"). [[The Deadlines]], likewise, parodied [[horror film]] themes on their album ''The Death and Life Of...''.

Some may still argue that punk is anti-religious and thus in opposition to Christianity. Their argument is generally that the practice of Christianity (or any established religion) is, by definition, conformity to rules set forth by someone other than the individual for him or herself. One response to this claim is that punk rock encourages people to think for themselves, and that a Christian's choice to obey God's Word is his or her own decision to make, regardless of what others (including punks) would think of it.

Some Christians also do not agree with organized religion. They say that real Christianity is not a religion because it's not supposed to be about rituals and rules; attacking these notions of [[legalism]] is a common theme in Christian punk lyrics, especially with more old school Christian punk bands, such as [[Ninety Pound Wuss]] in their first two albums. They believe true Christianity is a relationship with Jesus, not a religion. Many Christian punks are against religion like other punks, yet they are strongly in support of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ separate from rules and tradition. This idea gave rise to Christian punk's term "JCHC", meaning "Jesus Christ Hard Core", which draws its name from an [[Officer Negative]] song of the same name.

===Christian punk, anarchism, and politics===
Although [[punk rock]] has strong ties to [[anarchism]], Christian Punks are not a sub-culture of [[Marxism]] or a form of [[anarchy]] or [[communism]]. This belief was often held by extreme [[conservatism|conservatives]] during the 1970s and 1980s, however, this was only used because of the clash between conservatives and the [[Jesus Movement]]. Evangelists such as [[Jimmy Swaggart]] used this term in order to associate the [[Jesus Movement]] as anti-Christian.

The vast majority of Christian punk bands do not advocate anarchy or communism; [http://www.officernegative.com/index2.htm Officer Negative's] logo is a parody of the [[Anarchist symbolism#Circle-A|Circle-A]] commonly associated with anarchism. Many Christian punk bands, especially pop-punk bands such as [[Relient K]], [[Slick Shoes]], and [[MxPx]], sing very few of their songs about political topics; others, most notably old school Christian punk bands, sing strongly political songs. Political Christian punk bands come from a variety of areas on the [[political spectrum]]. [[The Psalters]], who openly advocate the ideas of [[Karl Marx]] {{Fact|date=February 2007}}, are an [[anarcho-punk]] band; some politicized Christian punk bands are liberals or socialists. [[Crashdog]] operated a section of their website devoted to political issues and candidates that they supported, such as former United States [[Green Party]] Presidential candidate [[Ralph Nader]] and various [[human rights]] causes. [http://www.busker-kibbutznik.org/crashdog/political.html] Crashdog disbanded in the late 1990s to start [http://www.ballydowse.net Ballydowse], a more [[world music]]-influenced band which also took strong stances on human rights issues.

Other Christian punk bands take more conservative stances. [[Calibretto 13]]'s song "America", from their album ''Adventures in Tokyo'', expressed the band's displeasure with America's moral decline. Christian punk bands are also often vocal against [[abortion]] in their songs. [http://www.rockforlife.org Rock for Life] categorizes bands based on their advocacy for or against abortion; they include many Christian punk bands, such as [[Dogwood (band)|Dogwood]], Flatfoot 56, Relient K, and [[One 21]], on their [http://www.rockforlife.org/music_prolifebands.php list of pro-life bands].

==Record labels==
*[[BEC Recordings]]
*[[Bettie Rocket]]
*[[Facedown Records]]
*[[Flicker Records]]
*[[Gotee Records]]
*[[Mono Vs Stereo]]
*[[Raging Storm Records]]
*[[Rescue Records]]
*[[Solid State Records]]
*[[Squint Entertainment]]
*[[Tooth & Nail Records]]

==See also==
*[[List of Christian punk bands]]
*[[Christian rock]]
*[[Christian socialism]]
*[[Christian communism]]
*[[Christian anarchism]]
*[[Liberation theology]]
*[[Christian feminism]]
*[[Religious communism]]
*[[Anarchism and religion]]
*[[Punk ideology]]
*[[Post Christian]]
*[[Taqwacore]]

==External links==
* [http://www.anth-net.com ANTH-NET.com] Christian music news, releases, and much more.
*[http://www.villagevoice.com/news/0122,sandler,25149,1.html God Save the Teens: Local Kids Seek a New Kind of Church Through Hardcore and Hip-Hop] by Lauren Sandler in the [[Village Voice]] 30 May - 5 June 2001
*[http://www.diy-punk.org/diyfiles/hcpguide/ Hardcore/Punk Guide to Christianity - Why Christianity Has No Place in Punk Rock] (criticism of Christian punk)
*http://www.christianpunks.com
*http://www.spotlightministries.org.uk/punk.htm
*[http://www.abpnews.com/870.article Christian punk-rockers find acceptance on 'straight edge']

==References==
<references />

{{Punk}}

[[Category:Christian punk| ]]
[[Category:Christian rock genres|Punk]]
[[Category:Punk genres]]

[[da:Kristen punk]]
[[it:Christian punk]]
[[pt:Punk cristão]]