We all have our favorite bands and can write articles about how the chemistry between the musicians involved leads to a superior piece of music. But sometimes it's also interesting to hear what art can be made when these members venture out independently. "Going solo" has been a staple of successful bands. Whether it's a one-off side project to explore musical inclinations that wouldn't fit within the established sound of their existing band, or striking out in the long-term for a solo career, "going solo" has produced some great art. In this article, I explore standout solo projects from artists you might recognize as the frontmen of classic Christian bands.
John Schlitt (Petra) "Show Me The Way"
John Schlitt managed the impossible and took over for departing lead vocalist Greg Volz from the premier Christian rock band, Petra. Replacing popular lead vocalists is a tall order; few are up to the challenge. With the help of the Elefante brothers behind the soundboard, John Schlitt managed to use his experience in the mainstream to help revitalize Petra's sound and usher in a bold new era for the band. That arena rock sound has become iconic, and no classic Christian playlist would ever be complete without some of Petra's signature Schlitt-led anthems.
In the mid-1990s, Schlitt released the first of several solo albums that would allow him to explore further and stretch his musical vision. Shake didn't sound too different from a Petra album, but boasted a more direct Schlitt musical touch. The popular single "Show Me The Way" was a hit on Christian radio and was a fitting testimony of a singer who had followed God to heal from his share of battles.
Phil Joel (Newsboys) - "Watching Over You"
Phil Joel and his signature hair became a welcome staple of the Newsboys' sound starting with 1995's Take Me To Your Leader. Releasing his own album in the early 2000s, "Watching Over You" was the title track and a tender anthem offering listeners an encouraging message. "God is watching over you as always/You are loved whatever you go through/He's right beside you/God is watching over you as always/And if you think He'll ever leave you/You'd better think again."
Andy Chrisman (4Him) - "Complete"
The soaring high voice of 4Him, Andy Chrisman, released a solo project after that band's initial run in 2004. Titled One, the album gave Chrisman a more central venue to highlight his powerful vocals. "Complete" is a notable hit from the album, boasting a joyous anthem that sings of how God completes us. Fans of 4Him's more anthemic material who may not be familiar with the solo works of the individual members would do well to listen to this one.
Bob Carlisle (Allies) - "We Fall Down"
Allies was a prominent Christian rock band in the 1980s and early 1990s. Vocalist Bob Carlisle started a successful solo career after the band ended. His most notable hit was the crossover success "Butterfly Kisses." But I'd argue one of his most profound and underrated hits was "We Fall Down." Telling the story of a downtrodden man changed by an encounter with a hermit monk. The line "the saints are just the sinners who fall down and get up" is a profound and needed reminder in our age.
Bob Halligan Jr. (Ceili Rain) - "Window In The Wall"
Cheating a little bit with this one since technically this was released from Bob Halligan before he formed Ceili Rain. Still, this song's infectious energy matches Ceili Rain's buoyant Celtic flair. Its distinct late 1980s feel also helps add to its character. The song was later included on a Ceili Rain album, and it's easy to see why. While its thematic content takes a more generic "could be a lover, could be Jesus" approach, its imagery is still profound. The song reminds us that even the dream of being with Christ can shine light into the darkness of our lives.
Bryan Duncan (Sweet Comfort Band) - "A Heart Like Mine"
Sweet Comfort Band was a trailblazing presence in Christian music for many years. Musician Bryan Duncan continued to be influential with many solo hits, including "Love Takes Time" and "A Heart Like Mine." The latter is a rousing ballad that exclaims how God can love us through our sins. "A heart like mine/How could it be worthy that You'd find/A way to redeem this hardened clay/Twisted and broken/Oh Father God above/The wonder that You'd love a heart like mine."
Greg X. Volz (Petra) - "Still Waters"
Greg X. Volz didn't disappear from the music scene after stepping down as Petra's frontman. While his solo work didn't generate the same commercial success as Petra achieved, he produced prolific work. "Still Waters" is one of his notable hits, with a rousing chorus that will surely call to mind some of his best work with Petra.
This list is only scratching the surface, of course. What artists did we miss? Perhaps this could be the first volume of a multi-volume series? You can hit us with your favorite songs and projects from classic and modern solo artists of popular Christian 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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