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The Jesus Music: A Visual Story of Redemption as Told by Those Who Lived It
A written and visual complement to the documentary film of the same name, The Jesus Music brings the history of a movement to life. Featuring Contemporary Christian Music artists across five decades, readers will experience the story that has united and changed the lives of people around the world.
The Jesus Music: A Visual Story of Redemption as Told by Those Who Lived It shares that story: people creating something they wanted, something that never existed before. Written by music and film historian Marshall Terrill, the book accompanies a documentary film by award-winning directors Jon and Andy Erwin; this written and visual narrative of the genre features historic concerts and candid behind-the-scenes photographs throughout.
From its beginnings in the tumultuous 1960s and the convergence of rock and roll, country, and gospel music during that time, The Jesus Music explores the history, evolution, and redemptive thread of Contemporary Christian Music over the last fifty years. From early California artists as much a part of hippie culture as Christian culture, to religious-themed bands and songs denounced by some church leaders of the day, to the rise, and sometimes fall, of best-selling artists, the book explores the often delicate balances between faith, fame, mission, and humanity as they relate to Christian music.
The Jesus Music takes a deep dive into the history of Contemporary Christian Music alongside the notable voices of Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith, Kirk Franklin, and TobyMac, as well as the stories of dozens of additional Christian artists through the decades. Experience a journey that hits all the right notes and explores:
- The roots of the movement, spanning from Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash to Switchfoot, Chris Tomlin, Hillsong United, and beyond.
- The stories of pioneers in the genre, including Larry Norman, Lovesong, and Stryper
- Insights into how history, culture, and technology shaped the Contemporary - - Christian Music we hear on the radio today.
- Examples of God’s steadfast love as He uses artists despite their human mistakes and shortcomings.
- How the message of the music transforms lives and has impact beyond artistic expression.
The Jesus Music is perfect for anyone looking to explore the history of the genre and discover how God can use us despite our flaws to impact the world.
The Jesus Music: A Visual Story of Redemption as Told by Those Who Lived It shares that story: people creating something they wanted, something that never existed before. Written by music and film historian Marshall Terrill, the book accompanies a documentary film by award-winning directors Jon and Andy Erwin; this written and visual narrative of the genre features historic concerts and candid behind-the-scenes photographs throughout.
From its beginnings in the tumultuous 1960s and the convergence of rock and roll, country, and gospel music during that time, The Jesus Music explores the history, evolution, and redemptive thread of Contemporary Christian Music over the last fifty years. From early California artists as much a part of hippie culture as Christian culture, to religious-themed bands and songs denounced by some church leaders of the day, to the rise, and sometimes fall, of best-selling artists, the book explores the often delicate balances between faith, fame, mission, and humanity as they relate to Christian music.
The Jesus Music takes a deep dive into the history of Contemporary Christian Music alongside the notable voices of Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith, Kirk Franklin, and TobyMac, as well as the stories of dozens of additional Christian artists through the decades. Experience a journey that hits all the right notes and explores:
- The roots of the movement, spanning from Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash to Switchfoot, Chris Tomlin, Hillsong United, and beyond.
- The stories of pioneers in the genre, including Larry Norman, Lovesong, and Stryper
- Insights into how history, culture, and technology shaped the Contemporary - - Christian Music we hear on the radio today.
- Examples of God’s steadfast love as He uses artists despite their human mistakes and shortcomings.
- How the message of the music transforms lives and has impact beyond artistic expression.
The Jesus Music is perfect for anyone looking to explore the history of the genre and discover how God can use us despite our flaws to impact the world.
208 pages, Hardcover
First published October 5, 2021
4 people are currently reading
48 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
November 20, 2021
Having not seen the documentary I am still more than satisfied by this detailed and well researched piece of historical journalism.
The book is like a who’s who in the mainly American world of Christian contemporary music; from it’s hippy roots to its celebration and expression today. It plots its struggles and the artist’s own difficulties to the sense of it being a God inspired medium to connect with the youth in each generation.
Through the different genre’s, the opposition of the church, the pressures for commercial success and the problems fame, wealth and criticism brought. Packed with quotes from the people who were caught up in it, performed and tried to be true to their music and their faith. Full of interesting photographs the chapters chronologically chart from the early days of Larry Norman “Why should the Devil have all the good music?” to a more considered period today where Worship is key.
I felt I was given a clear insight into my own appreciation of ‘Jesus Music’ from the 1970, my heroes; my disappointments.
The author assumes nothing for the reader. His wider understanding of the contemporary music scene enables us to see similar journeys and outcomes for bands and musicians. I loved the tie in with pop legends and the responses of John Lennon and Bob Dylan. This is an objective piece of writing which cleverly gives the reader themes throughout to compare and contrast, find links and hooks to hold the whole book together.
However, beyond a usual reporters skill is this ability to act as a guide. To inform not just with facts but with the understanding of faith. Consequently, it becomes not just the music that resonates but it quickens one’s spirit to see a divine purpose and gospel message. The power of music to reach us in special ways and the historic ministry such artists have brought to lives which otherwise would not have heard God’s voice amid all life’s white noise.
I loved the affirmation and seal of approval Billy Graham’s ministry leant to this movement and the proof perhaps that it was God’s vision and ministry all the time.
A book for all who like music; had their own time buying (or downloading), records/tunes.
An appeal to understand better, appreciate differences and support rather than judge. To take on these lessons and thereafter apply them in all areas of life from equality and diversity issues through to political debate. I have had to re-evaluate my historical attitudes to performers I looked up to at times. Instead of giving unconditional support at the time I may have demanded more, taken their status as a role model and attributed sainthood when their humanity should have always led my opinion. It is a dangerous place.
To rank others and to see yourself and similar minded people as better than others.
We build people up and delight in their public fall from popularity. From hero to zero.
None of this derives directly from the author’s own words. It is just his skill to enlighten and provide empathy.
This book has moved me. Performers that appear on album covers I still own, have been made more real to me than if physically seen live in a concert arena. I have several friends who I know would enjoy this book.
The book is like a who’s who in the mainly American world of Christian contemporary music; from it’s hippy roots to its celebration and expression today. It plots its struggles and the artist’s own difficulties to the sense of it being a God inspired medium to connect with the youth in each generation.
Through the different genre’s, the opposition of the church, the pressures for commercial success and the problems fame, wealth and criticism brought. Packed with quotes from the people who were caught up in it, performed and tried to be true to their music and their faith. Full of interesting photographs the chapters chronologically chart from the early days of Larry Norman “Why should the Devil have all the good music?” to a more considered period today where Worship is key.
I felt I was given a clear insight into my own appreciation of ‘Jesus Music’ from the 1970, my heroes; my disappointments.
The author assumes nothing for the reader. His wider understanding of the contemporary music scene enables us to see similar journeys and outcomes for bands and musicians. I loved the tie in with pop legends and the responses of John Lennon and Bob Dylan. This is an objective piece of writing which cleverly gives the reader themes throughout to compare and contrast, find links and hooks to hold the whole book together.
However, beyond a usual reporters skill is this ability to act as a guide. To inform not just with facts but with the understanding of faith. Consequently, it becomes not just the music that resonates but it quickens one’s spirit to see a divine purpose and gospel message. The power of music to reach us in special ways and the historic ministry such artists have brought to lives which otherwise would not have heard God’s voice amid all life’s white noise.
I loved the affirmation and seal of approval Billy Graham’s ministry leant to this movement and the proof perhaps that it was God’s vision and ministry all the time.
A book for all who like music; had their own time buying (or downloading), records/tunes.
An appeal to understand better, appreciate differences and support rather than judge. To take on these lessons and thereafter apply them in all areas of life from equality and diversity issues through to political debate. I have had to re-evaluate my historical attitudes to performers I looked up to at times. Instead of giving unconditional support at the time I may have demanded more, taken their status as a role model and attributed sainthood when their humanity should have always led my opinion. It is a dangerous place.
To rank others and to see yourself and similar minded people as better than others.
We build people up and delight in their public fall from popularity. From hero to zero.
None of this derives directly from the author’s own words. It is just his skill to enlighten and provide empathy.
This book has moved me. Performers that appear on album covers I still own, have been made more real to me than if physically seen live in a concert arena. I have several friends who I know would enjoy this book.
October 6, 2021
The Jesus Music is the companion book to a documentary that will be released in movie theatres in October, 2021, according to the media marketing information provided with this ARC. When I saw the title and cover of this book, I knew I had to read it. As a child of the 1960s I was just beginning to get into music at the time the Jesus Movement and Jesus Music were hitting their stride. I remember the first time I heard Jesus Music at a youth group meeting when I was about 12 years old. I was drawn to the music of Keith Green and 2nd Chapter of Acts...later Amy Grant, The Imperials, Russ Taff...etc., I could go on...for a long while. CCM (Contemporary Christian Music) and I grew up together...evolved together.
This book is the history of the evolution of CCM from it's beginnings in the Jesus Movement through it's emergence as a contender on secular pop, heavy metal, and eventually rap charts; into the turbulent changes that Napster and iTunes brought to the entire recording industry, and finally to where we are today...worship music, not unlike the Jesus Music of the late 1960s and 1970s. Music that focused on Jesus and humanity's relationship with Him.
The history of Jesus Music and CCM isn't always pretty. The artists are human, after all, and subject to the temptations of fame, money, drugs, and sex. There is no sugar coating of that past here. Even though the church and the CCM industry tended to turn their backs on those who were less than perfect (even taking industry awards away from performers because of their "sins") most of those artists continued to follow the Jesus they sang about, and many have returned to CCM as performers and mentors.
As I read The Jesus Music, I found myself diving into Google, searching for and listening to the music of artists mentioned and looking for photos (and even videos) from concerts and festivals where they performed. I'm excited about the release of the documentary and hope that it will show in a theatre near my hometown. So for me, the book has done it's job.
I highly recommend this book for those who grew up with Jesus Music and CCM, but also for those who know only the worship music of today. This book shows those readers the shoulders upon which the artists of today stand. And the often rocky road it took to get from there to here.
While the book does not contain the traditional footnotes, there are extensive end notes, listed by chapter, showing the dates of interviews done with the artists, producers, etc., who are quoted in the book. It also includes a lengthy bibliography, index, and photo credits.
I love the quote about the longevity of Jesus Music that closes the book.
"Hope continues to be stoked. So it will be for the next fifty years. Or more. Why? Because the inspiration for this music will not change. The reason for these music makers and lyricists to do what they do isn't going anywhere. He is the same...yesterday, today, forever. (Hebrews 13:8) Jesus rocks. Can he get an amen?"
Amen
I received a digital copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
#TheJesusMusic #netgalley
This book is the history of the evolution of CCM from it's beginnings in the Jesus Movement through it's emergence as a contender on secular pop, heavy metal, and eventually rap charts; into the turbulent changes that Napster and iTunes brought to the entire recording industry, and finally to where we are today...worship music, not unlike the Jesus Music of the late 1960s and 1970s. Music that focused on Jesus and humanity's relationship with Him.
The history of Jesus Music and CCM isn't always pretty. The artists are human, after all, and subject to the temptations of fame, money, drugs, and sex. There is no sugar coating of that past here. Even though the church and the CCM industry tended to turn their backs on those who were less than perfect (even taking industry awards away from performers because of their "sins") most of those artists continued to follow the Jesus they sang about, and many have returned to CCM as performers and mentors.
As I read The Jesus Music, I found myself diving into Google, searching for and listening to the music of artists mentioned and looking for photos (and even videos) from concerts and festivals where they performed. I'm excited about the release of the documentary and hope that it will show in a theatre near my hometown. So for me, the book has done it's job.
I highly recommend this book for those who grew up with Jesus Music and CCM, but also for those who know only the worship music of today. This book shows those readers the shoulders upon which the artists of today stand. And the often rocky road it took to get from there to here.
While the book does not contain the traditional footnotes, there are extensive end notes, listed by chapter, showing the dates of interviews done with the artists, producers, etc., who are quoted in the book. It also includes a lengthy bibliography, index, and photo credits.
I love the quote about the longevity of Jesus Music that closes the book.
"Hope continues to be stoked. So it will be for the next fifty years. Or more. Why? Because the inspiration for this music will not change. The reason for these music makers and lyricists to do what they do isn't going anywhere. He is the same...yesterday, today, forever. (Hebrews 13:8) Jesus rocks. Can he get an amen?"
Amen
I received a digital copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
#TheJesusMusic #netgalley
October 6, 2021
The Jesus Music
A Visual Story of Redemption as Told by Those Who Lived It
by: Marshall Terrill
K-Love Books, Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles
The story of Contemporary Christian Music is well-told and documented in the words and photographs of The Jesus Music, bringing it from the roots of origin to its present-day status. Readers will not only want to listen to more music by their favorite artists in this genre, but also seek out new ones they have overlooked throughout the decades of this musical journey. Author Marshall Terrill's book is an accompaniment to the documentary film, The Jesus Music.
Musical history from all genres is fascinating. It's refreshing to read a book about the evolvement of Contemporary Christian music over the years, including the artists and their contributions. Those of us who love this music may only know about certain artists that we follow, and only have limited if any knowledge of the beginning of the movement and its progression. Of special interest to me was the presentation of Larry Norman and Lovesong as they served as pioneers.
I enjoyed reading more about artists I've loved over the years such as B. J. Thomas and Amy Grant and their roles in the CCM heritage. After reading the book, I know more about other artists, their stories, and how each paved the way with their own personal styles. The book captures how other genres such as country, folk, and rock contributed to the story of Contemporary Christian Music.
Music plays such a beloved role in our worship, regardless of our personal beliefs. The more we understand and appreciate Contemporary Christian music, we may find new connections to deepen our faith and connect us to God as we lift him up in praise. I highly recommend this book, and I'll be eagerly seeking out the movie, as well!
Thank you to Net Galley and K-Love Books, Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles for the advance reader's copy and the opportunity to provide my honest review.
#TheJesusMusic #NetGalley
A Visual Story of Redemption as Told by Those Who Lived It
by: Marshall Terrill
K-Love Books, Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles
The story of Contemporary Christian Music is well-told and documented in the words and photographs of The Jesus Music, bringing it from the roots of origin to its present-day status. Readers will not only want to listen to more music by their favorite artists in this genre, but also seek out new ones they have overlooked throughout the decades of this musical journey. Author Marshall Terrill's book is an accompaniment to the documentary film, The Jesus Music.
Musical history from all genres is fascinating. It's refreshing to read a book about the evolvement of Contemporary Christian music over the years, including the artists and their contributions. Those of us who love this music may only know about certain artists that we follow, and only have limited if any knowledge of the beginning of the movement and its progression. Of special interest to me was the presentation of Larry Norman and Lovesong as they served as pioneers.
I enjoyed reading more about artists I've loved over the years such as B. J. Thomas and Amy Grant and their roles in the CCM heritage. After reading the book, I know more about other artists, their stories, and how each paved the way with their own personal styles. The book captures how other genres such as country, folk, and rock contributed to the story of Contemporary Christian Music.
Music plays such a beloved role in our worship, regardless of our personal beliefs. The more we understand and appreciate Contemporary Christian music, we may find new connections to deepen our faith and connect us to God as we lift him up in praise. I highly recommend this book, and I'll be eagerly seeking out the movie, as well!
Thank you to Net Galley and K-Love Books, Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles for the advance reader's copy and the opportunity to provide my honest review.
#TheJesusMusic #NetGalley
March 20, 2022
This was a fun little book. Terrill does a solid job of working through most of the major events and persons/groups of CCM's past. For the space used, he does as good a job as can be expected. In that, the recounting is more a "highlights" reel than a true history, per se. That being said, I enjoyed the trip down memory lane, especially for the latter half of the book, which was the era of CCM I grew up in.
This book has lots of fun pictures to take you down memory lane, and it's fun, as you read, to be like, "Oh yeh! I remember him/her/them!" But for most artists mentioned or discussed, the information covered is minimal and serves to wet your appetite rather than really dig in and help you understand what was going on. Fun book. I don't regret the time I spent reading it....but now it'll probably only be opened to show my kids pictures of what some of these artists looked like.
This book has lots of fun pictures to take you down memory lane, and it's fun, as you read, to be like, "Oh yeh! I remember him/her/them!" But for most artists mentioned or discussed, the information covered is minimal and serves to wet your appetite rather than really dig in and help you understand what was going on. Fun book. I don't regret the time I spent reading it....but now it'll probably only be opened to show my kids pictures of what some of these artists looked like.
April 17, 2024
Opening this book's pages and traveling along from cover to cover takes readers on a fast-paced tour of the history and development of contemporary Christian music from the not-so-distant past of its beginnings during the Jesus Movement to the not-so-far-off present of its state these days. Since it's a short book heavily laced with pictures, there's not room for an in-depth study of the genre: it's more of an overview, touching on highlights, lowlights, and trends that have pushed the story forward. This book is a good guide for someone wanting a quick recap of basic facts about CCM, but those wanting a more detailed account (me included) will have to look elsewhere.
July 30, 2023
I may not like today's Christian music very well (after all, who can write like Rich Mullins could, for example?), but I thought this book did a good job following the development of modern Christian music, and highlighting the ups and downs in that history. I would have liked this to have been a more in depth book with more artist accounts in it. It was simply too short. I would have liked to have read more, and more detailed, accounts from the musical artists about their experiences. I could so relate to Chris Tomlin's account as to how he responded when he first heard Petra's music.
September 28, 2021
I have not watched the documentary that this book is based on, but I really loved the book.
Marshall outlined the history of Christian Music in easily digestible parts, which keep me ready and wanting to know more about what was a small branch of musical history.
Love the pictures that were added, I loved seeing this part of History.
Would recommend for music lovers.
Marshall outlined the history of Christian Music in easily digestible parts, which keep me ready and wanting to know more about what was a small branch of musical history.
Love the pictures that were added, I loved seeing this part of History.
Would recommend for music lovers.
November 24, 2021
It was an interesting history lesson, very real and honest look at the Christian music industry. From the late 80 to the 2000s I was very active in listening to Christian music stating with Rick Cua and getting into harder rock Petra, Whitecross, Stryper, Barren Cross and New Boys. I was interested to hear the background stories of the music world.
December 2, 2021
I really enjoyed this book. I will admit that I also saw the movie, so I had that mental imagery in mind as I read. The book basically follows all of the film content. I have been a follower of Jesus music and the artists since about 1980, having worked in the industry through several radio stations. I've seen lots of feedback on the content of the movie (and thus the book) - much negative - about what was not included in the book. To be fair, it whets the appetite for those who want to know more and provides a great overview - there is no book (to keep it readable length) that could include everything important. Plus, fans of the genre often disagree on who or what events were most significant. This is a great starter point, and a solid comprehensive overview and worth the time. I like how it is pulled together in the timeline to bring us to where we are today in the industry and genre. I was provided an advance copy of the book content through NetGalley without any commitment for a positive review.
January 8, 2022
A short, easy to read walk through the compelling history of the industry termed "christian music." There is enlightening history of the artists and social circumstances that birthed, proliferated, and restricted the genre's popularity and impact. It's not without tales of trial for artists and critique of the church's periods of reluctance to accept what was non-traditional.
January 20, 2022
While it covers a lot of ground, the book tends to gloss over the details of a number of stories and in particular attempts to impose a bit of a straight-line narrative where one doesn't really exist.
Not bad - but too vague for long-time CCM fans and too "in the religious weeds" for anyone outside the faith.
Not bad - but too vague for long-time CCM fans and too "in the religious weeds" for anyone outside the faith.
September 12, 2021
While the book's format keeps it from being a rigorous research tool (no footnotes, citations, etc.), it works quite well as an oral history of Contemporary Christian Music, the good and the bad and the occasionally bizarre.
November 12, 2021
Great read to understand the history of CCM. Although many artists that should have been included or least mentioned were not. A little too much tie (first two chapters) talking about the hippie movement. Lots of good photos.
October 13, 2021
Being a huge fan of CCM, this book fills in the story so much more for me. It is a great overall history telling of the genre.
March 27, 2022
Basically a transcript of the documentary. I was hoping for additional detail or background On artists who didn't make it into the movie version.
June 20, 2022
A pretty good comprehensive history of Christian music!
September 6, 2023
Helpful history of the Jesus movement and the music it spawned. Interesting to see the movement from grassroots music to an industry and how that affected the musicians and American churches.
November 21, 2025
So good! A beautiful book!
July 23, 2022
From the early years of Jesus Music to the Contemporary Christian Music genera today, this book brought back a lot of memories. Well worth the read and be sure to see the documentary of the same name.
October 7, 2021
I love creation stories. How did we get here? Who were a part of it? What were the struggles to get here? What have we all learned? Well, "The Jesus Music" book answers these questions to provide a comprehensive history of the past 50+ years of music.
My favorite chapters were focused on the hippie movement of the 1960s/70s and then the expansion years of the 80s. I came to know the Lord in the 90s so my musical experience started with DC Talk, Jars of Clay, and Steven Curtis Chapman. But, they weren't the first, they were the ones who worked to perfect it.
What you learn as a reader is that we are all a work in progress and the Lord can use all of us in His way to forward His kingdom, despite our flaws. This will be featured on my shelf for years.
My favorite chapters were focused on the hippie movement of the 1960s/70s and then the expansion years of the 80s. I came to know the Lord in the 90s so my musical experience started with DC Talk, Jars of Clay, and Steven Curtis Chapman. But, they weren't the first, they were the ones who worked to perfect it.
What you learn as a reader is that we are all a work in progress and the Lord can use all of us in His way to forward His kingdom, despite our flaws. This will be featured on my shelf for years.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews