With a refreshing honesty and a warm and inviting sound, the iconic band Casting Crowns has become an A-list powerhouse in Christian music. As their national self-titled debut album turns 20, we look back at some of that debut album's most iconic hits and the band's legacy over the years.
Genre Defining Hits
Their debut album differed from other releases; however, most songs still topped the charts. "If We Are The Body" became an instant Christian radio anthem with bold messaging and a catchy chorus. The piece challenges the listener in a way that many Christian songs are afraid to, asking why we're allowing evil to go unchecked when we can do something about it.
"If We Are the Body" reminds us of what it means to be the hands and feet of Christ, and it isn't just sitting around and waiting for God to fix the world for us. "Who Am I" is the album's biggest hit, challenging the listener to reflect on their place in creation. "Voice of Truth" calls us to ignore the naysayers, saying that we can never be all Christ calls us to be and to trust in the voice of Christ that stills, compels, and encourages us. "American Dream" was a politically tinged rocker that decried Americans' tendency to prioritize material and financial goals at the expense of their spiritual and familial well-being.
These songs opted for a big and full sound, helping to shape the signature contemporary Christian music sound of the 2000s and 2010s. Even today, Casting Crowns remains one of the boldest bands lyrically in Christian music, unafraid to challenge listeners to examine the state of their walk with Christ.
Deeper Cuts
"What If His People Prayed" is a fantastic introduction to the Casting Crowns' sound and lyricism, name-dropping Oprah as a false source of advice and calling out the complacent nature of many Christians in slacking on their prayer lives and tolerating evils like abortion. "Life of Praise" is another radio-ready hit that strongly complements the album's more well-known songs. "Here I Go Again" reminds us of the unimportant things we get distracted with instead of focusing on what truly matters in our walk with Christ.
Hits Across The Years
Casting Crowns has been one of the most consistently successful bands in Christian music. Many of their albums and singles have been certified Platinum or Gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). Hits through the years included "East to West," "Glorious Day (Living He Loved Me)," and "Only Jesus." But that's just scratching the surface. This band has released a lot of chart-toppers these past two decades. And they continue to dominate with each new release.
As their debut album turns 20, listen to where it all started. You might get a new appreciation for one of Christian music's most respected bands.
J.J. Francesco is a longtime contributor to the NRT Staff. He's published the novel 'Because of Austin' and regularly seeks new ways to engage faith, life, and community. His new novel, 'When Miracles Can Dream,' is out NOW!
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