My Christian Musician

As there are many different styles and genres of music, there are also many different styles and genres of Christian music.

Some of the most popular genres of Christian music include: gospel, contemporary, rock, heavy metal, country, worship/praise, rhythm and blues, pop, blues, folk, electronic dance music and Christmas music. 

Each of these genres are different, musically speaking, and come from different periods of time, however, they all share Christian themes through their lyrics and are all created by one super-talented group of people – Christian musicians.  

 Some Christian versions of these music genres have sparked controversy in Christian communities as traditionally, some of these music styles revolved around themes contrary to the Christian message.

 However, as each genre evolved over time, most have become accepted by many Christians worldwide. 

In fact, Christian music had become a broad category of different styles of music that both Christians and non-Christians enjoy listening to and has given rise to a completely new kind of musician – the Christian musician.  

Christian gospel music is a genre of Christian music that is predominantly vocal based. The genre features physical interaction with the music by the audience with clapping, stomping and vocal participation.

It features instruments such as guitar, piano and drums and is generally characterised by church choirs in Baptist and similar churches. Christian gospel music can be incorporated into a variety of other music styles and is enjoyed all over the world.  

Contemporary Christian music is a form of modern popular music that, similarly to gospel music, has lyrics that focus on messages of love, hope and other aspects of Christianity. 

Music from this genre is commonly modern versions of old hymns and gospel music that have been recreated in a more contemporary style.  

Christian rhythm and blues music, otherwise known as R&B, is a genre of music that incorporates Christian focused lyrics with music in the style of rhythm and blues. 

The genre originates from the 1940s jazz-rock era. Music from this genre is played with instruments such as saxophone, drum kit, bass and electric guitar, vocals, horns and piano.  

Similarly, to contemporary Christian music, Christian pop music is a form of popular Christian music. It is lyrically focused and has messages of love for God and often speaks of faith. 

Whereas contemporary Christian music recreates popular Christian gospel music in a more modern way, Christian pop music is new music written by Christian musicians and has lyrics that centre around the values of Christianity.  

Christian folk music is a genre that takes the style of folk music and combines it with Christian lyrics. Nowadays, folk music is sometimes also referred to as indie music. 

Folk music, as the name suggests, comes from the people and was generally not recorded in studios until quite recently; instead, it was a way for small communities to share in their culture and faith. 

Music from this genre usually incorporates instruments such as guitar, ukulele and the fiddle.