Artists have long considered the U.S. the go-to country for music success. Los Angeles and Nashville are cities of opportunities for many musicians.
According to the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce, in Nashville alone—appropriately dubbed Music City—the music and entertainment industry is worth roughly $15.6 billion dollars. Within this industry, there is, of course, the notable realm of Christian music. Famous blogger Brandon Gaille's Small Business Association considers the realm of Christian music—including gospel—to be one of the fastest-growing areas in the history of recorded music.
Beginning with Biblical references, such as Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son, Isaac, and Jesus' surrender to God's will, to the act of praise through song, worship has taken on many different forms.
With the Psalms of King David as one of the first starting points, it comes with little surprise that music with a Christian foundation has grown and changed immensely over the years.
One of the best representations of its popularity ebbs and flows is The Jesus Music documentary. The recently released film contains a compilation of interviews and historical footage. It dives deep into the roots of such a monumental genre of music.
A powerful quote from the documentary is, "There's something about a song or a piece of music that I believe touches the soul like somebody talking to you can't." Music of God truly is a gift and even while diving into its technicalities, one can't help but be aware of the peace it brings to its listeners.
Music is a powerful force that God has given for us to use; its influence can be used for the expansion of heaven or the glorification of the world. As Christians, we're blessed to have incredible artists who share the gospel, using a variety of unique styles and genres.
Many Christian artists worldwide, such as popular acts Matt Maher and for King and Country, have moved to the U.S to pursue a career in Christian music. Artists move to the U.S. for a myriad of reasons: proximity to their main audience as well as their production and management teams are a couple. Increased career opportunities are another one.
Artists come to the U.S. from all over the world—especially from Australia, Canada, and Ireland. Here are a few musicians from these famous locations who’ve made a name for themselves in Christian music. I dive into the stories of several artists and their U.S.-centered Christian music careers.
On that note, I pray no matter where life finds you today, you'll have the courage to open your mind and soften your heart to the power of the Lord conveyed through song.
Australia
Artists from the worship band Hillsong United have relocated to the U.S. Most recently, members Benjamin Hastings and Taya Gaukrodger moved from their homes in Australia to make Los Angeles, California their new home.
This move was decisive for both individuals as they pursue their respective—and equally incredible—solo projects. Locationally speaking, the two artists are closer to major tour opportunities: the Hillsong UNITED tour with contemporary artist Chris Tomlin is one example.
Also, from Australia is the popular contemporary Christian music duo, for KING & COUNTRY. Consisting of brothers Joel and Luke Smallbone, their well-known tunes have been sweeping across the U.S. audience for many years.
Although the brothers immigrated as children, they retain dual citizenship in both countries and can incorporate that heritage into several of their live show experiences.
Canada
The number of well-known Christian artists with Canadian birth certificates who have migrated to the U.S. has increased in recent years. For example, solo artists Dan Bremnes and Jordan St. Cyr have both garnered respect from fans and other artists for their uncanny abilities to pen catchy tunes with powerful lyrics. Songs capable of blowing the listener away. Songs I recommend are Dan’s "Wherever I Go (Acoustic)" and Jordan’s hit song, "Weary Traveler.”
(On a personal note, a couple of my first album reviews for NewReleaseToday were based on released projects from Dan and Jordan, so I might be biased).
Another popular Canadian Christian band, or duo, is Love & the Outcome. I recently reviewed their latest record, Only Ever Always. I had a blast jamming out to this must-listen album, featuring the sure-to-be hit, "Look What God Has Done."
Love & the Outcome’s journey from Canada to the U.S. had many ups and downs. But for the sake of myself and many other grateful listeners of their Christ-centered music, I couldn’t be more grateful that they chose to press on in perseverance toward what God was calling them to do.
Other artists that hail from Canada include Amanda Cook, a Dove and Juno Award-winning artist who has led worship through song both independently and with Bethel Music, and Matt Maher, a chart-topping worship leader, and songwriter. Also worth a mention is rock artist Marc Martel, who’s best known for his Queen covers and Christian music.
Ireland
One of the most widely known Irish-born musicians who broke through into the U.S. Christian music scene is Darren Mulligan of the popular band We Are Messengers. His career and life, in general, have led him to many different cities over the years. But since "Everything Comes Alive" topped the charts in 2016, he has called Nashville home.
Rend Collective is another amazing Christian band that does an incredible job at preserving Irish culture through tunes reflective of its native sounds. Unlike many other artists, the members of Rend Collective don’t currently reside in Nashville; nevertheless, their impact has changed the Christian music industry.
It's also worth noting that the previously mentioned artist, Benjamin Hastings, was born in Northern Ireland. He moved to Australia, hence his involvement with the Hillsong Church and Hillsong UNITED.
Selena Schulz is NRT’s youngest staff contributor. She loves God, music, reading, and writing.
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