Country Christian artist Bob Carlisle might seem to mainstream audiences to be a one-hit-wonder, penning a singular crossover hit that achieved massive commercial success. Fans of Christian music in the 1980s and 1990s might be a bit more familiar with his contributions to Christian music, while still perhaps not knowing nearly as much about his body of work as some of the more A-lists of the era.
As his landmark crossover album, Butterfly Kisses (Shades of Grace), turns 25 years old, I look at the album–and the smash hit title track–that gave Bob Carlisle a glimpse at being one of the biggest names in music, both Christian and mainstream.
"Butterfly Kisses"
In previous articles, I wrote how the success of a single song could propel an entire album to success (those were the days). This album was an example of that fact. Butterfly Kisses is certified Double Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). And that success comes almost entirely because of the success of its title track.
"Butterfly Kisses" dominated Christian charts. It dominated mainstream charts. It was huge on country charts. It has several notable cover versions. From the iconic swelling musical hook to Bob's strong-yet-gentle crooning in the chorus, the song became an anthem for fathers. It was the go-to song for father-daughter dances. And it brought tears to the strongest of men in one area that could make them melt: their little girls.
The song's success prompted the label to re-release Bob's album, changing the name from just Shades of Grace, to Butterfly Kisses (Shades of Grace). Consequently, the album peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and, for a time, made Bob Carlisle one of the biggest names in Christian music.
Deeper Cuts
Despite the immense success of the record, the rest of the album's songs didn't quite break out of the Christian radio playing field. "Mighty Love" was actually the album's lead single released the previous year (when the album was called Shades of Grace). It was a moderately successful single on Christian radio. You'll definitely find yourself singing along.
"You Must Have Been An Angel" will appeal more to the "Butterfly Kisses" crowd, offering a tender love song that speaks to the heart in a similar way.
The Coming Years
After achieving success singing for the Christian rock band, Allies, in the 1980s, Bob Carlisle set his sights on a successful solo run. Butterfly Kisses was the peak of his success.
Subsequent albums brought more of his hits to Christian radio, such as "We Fall Down" and "A Father's Love." Bob kept a foot in the door of the mainstream as well, appearing on soundtracks to films, such as Jack Frost or Charlotte's Web, and special tribute projects.
But likely, Bob Carlisle's greatest legacy will always be the song he wrote for his daughter when she turned 16, a song that spoke to the heart of fatherhood.
J.J. Francesco is a long-time NRT contributor. He's published the novel 'Because of Austin' and regularly seeks new ways to engage faith, life, and community. He is currently working on a brand new novel.
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