Petra is an American music group that has been regarded as a pioneer of the contemporary Christian music genres. The band has been recognized for its influence in the Christian rock scene and has been awarded several accolades, including four Grammys and ten Dove Awards. However, there has been some debate over whether Petra is a Christian band or not.
Some argue that Petra’s music is not explicitly Christian, as the band’s lyrics often contain metaphorical language and are open to interpretation. Others point out that Petra has been vocal about their faith and has used their music as a platform to spread the Gospel. Despite the debate, Petra’s impact on the Christian rock scene cannot be denied, and their music has inspired many listeners over the years.
Key Takeaways
- Petra is an American music group regarded as a pioneer of the contemporary Christian music genres.
- There has been some debate over whether Petra is a Christian band or not, as their lyrics often contain metaphorical language and are open to interpretation.
- Despite the debate, Petra’s impact on the Christian rock scene cannot be denied, and their music has inspired many listeners over the years.
History of Petra
Formation and Early Years
Petra is a Christian rock band that was formed in 1972 by guitarists and songwriters Bob Hartman and Greg Hough. The band’s name is derived from the Greek word for “rock”. Petra started as a band that played gospel music in churches and coffeehouses. In 1973, Petra signed a recording contract with Myrrh Records and released their debut album in 1974.
Rise to Fame
Throughout the 1980s and into the early 1990s, Petra was one of the world’s most popular Christian rock bands. The band’s albums during that period sold hundreds of thousands of copies, while the band sold-out arenas and regularly placed songs at the top of Christian radio charts. Petra was the first Christian rock band to receive a Grammy nomination.
During this time, the band’s lineup included lead vocalist Greg X. Volz, who sang on many of Petra’s most popular albums, including “Not of This World” and “Beat the System”. Petra’s 1985 album “Beat the System” was certified Gold by the RIAA and is considered one of the band’s most successful albums.
Lineup Changes and Evolution
Petra has undergone many lineup changes throughout the years. In 1986, Greg X. Volz left the band to pursue a solo career, and was replaced by John Schlitt. Schlitt became the band’s lead vocalist and has remained with the band ever since. Petra continued to release albums throughout the 1990s and 2000s, including “Petra Praise: The Rock Cries Out”, which won a Dove Award for Praise and Worship Album of the Year in 1990.
In 2006, Petra officially disbanded, but incarnations of the band have played reunion shows in the years since and released an album in November 2010. Petra was inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 2000, and is regarded as a pioneer of the Christian rock and contemporary Christian music genres.
Musical Style and Influence
Rock and Hard Rock Elements
Petra is considered to be one of the pioneers of Christian rock music. The band’s musical style is heavily influenced by rock and hard rock elements, which can be heard in their use of guitar riffs and drum beats. Their sound has been compared to that of popular secular rock bands such as The Eagles, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Foreigner, Styx, and Journey.
Lyrics and Message
Petra’s lyrics are known for their strong Christian message. The band’s songs often deal with themes of faith, hope, and salvation. They also touch on topics such as forgiveness, love, and the importance of living a virtuous life. Many of Petra’s songs are based on biblical stories and teachings, and the band’s message is always one of positivity and encouragement.
Influence on Other Bands
Petra’s influence on the Christian rock genre cannot be overstated. The band has inspired countless other Christian rock artists and has helped to shape the sound of contemporary Christian music. Petra’s commitment to spreading the gospel through their music has also had a profound impact on the Christian music industry as a whole.
In conclusion, Petra is a Christian rock band that has had a significant impact on the music industry. Their use of rock and hard rock elements, along with their strong Christian message, has inspired countless other artists and helped to shape the sound of contemporary Christian music.
Discography
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Studio Albums
Petra is a Christian rock band that has released a total of 24 studio albums. The band’s debut album was a self-titled album, Petra, which was released in 1974. The band’s second album, Come and Join Us, was released in 1977. Petra’s third album, Washes Whiter Than, was released in 1979.
Petra’s fourth album, Never Say Die, was released in 1981. The album featured the hit single “The Coloring Song,” which became one of Petra’s most popular songs. Petra’s fifth album, More Power to Ya, was released in 1982. The album featured the hit single “Judas’ Kiss.”
Petra’s sixth album, Not of This World, was released in 1983. The album featured the hit single “Not of This World.” Petra’s seventh album, Beat the System, was released in 1985. The album featured the hit single “Beat the System.”
Petra’s eighth album, Back to the Street, was released in 1986. The album featured the hit single “This Means War.” Petra’s ninth album, On Fire!, was released in 1988. The album featured the hit single “All Fired Up.”
Petra’s tenth album, Beyond Belief, was released in 1990. The album featured the hit single “Beyond Belief.” Petra’s eleventh album, Unseen Power, was released in 1991. The album featured the hit single “I Am on the Rock.”
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Petra’s twelfth album, Wake-Up Call, was released in 1993. The album featured the hit single “Midnight Oil.” Petra’s thirteenth album, No Doubt, was released in 1995. The album featured the hit single “No Doubt.”
Petra’s fourteenth album, God Fixation, was released in 1998. The album featured the hit single “God Fixation.” Petra’s fifteenth album, Double Take, was released in 2000. The album featured the hit single “Bema Seat.”
Petra’s sixteenth album, Revival, was released in 2001. The album featured the hit single “We Hold Our Hearts Out to You.” Petra’s seventeenth album, Jekyll & Hyde, was released in 2003. The album featured the hit single “All About Who You Know.”
Petra’s eighteenth album, “Jekyll & Hyde,” was released in 2003. The album featured the hit single “All About Who You Know.” Petra’s nineteenth album, “The Power of Praise,” was released in 2005. The album featured the hit single “King of Kings.”
Petra’s twentieth album, “Farewell,” was released in 2006. The album featured the hit single “The Prodigal’s Song.” Petra’s twenty-first album, “Back to the Rock,” was released in 2010. The album featured the hit single “Back to the Rock.”
Petra’s twenty-second album, “Jekyll & Hyde,” was released in 2011. The album featured the hit single “Jekyll & Hyde.” Petra’s twenty-third album, “Beyond Belief,” was released in 2012. The album featured the hit single “Beyond Belief.”
Petra’s twenty-fourth album, “This Means War!,” was released in 2015. The album featured the hit single “This Means War!”
Live Albums and Praise Albums
In addition to their studio albums, Petra has also released several live albums and praise albums. Petra’s first live album, “Captured in Time and Space,” was released in 1986. Petra’s second live album, “Petra Praise: The Rock Cries Out,” was released in 1989.
Petra’s third live album, “Petra Praise 2: We Need Jesus,” was released in 1997. Petra’s fourth live album, “Petra Farewell,” was released in 2005.
Notable Hits
Petra’s notable hits include “The Coloring Song” from their album “Never Say Die,” “This Means War” from their album “Back to the Street,” “Beyond Belief” from their album “Beyond Belief,” “Jekyll & Hyde” from their album “Jekyll & Hyde,” and “No Doubt” from their album “No Doubt.”
Awards and Recognition
Petra has won numerous awards and recognition for their contribution to Christian rock music. Here are some of their notable achievements:
Grammy Awards
Petra has been nominated for four Grammy Awards throughout their career. In 1985, they won the Grammy Award for Best Gospel Performance, Contemporary or Inspirational for their album “Beat the System”. The album sold hundreds of thousands of copies and featured hit songs like “It Is Finished” and “Clean”.
Dove Awards
Petra has won 10 Dove Awards throughout their career, including the prestigious Artist of the Year award in 1987. They also won the Rock Album of the Year award six times for their albums “Beat the System”, “This Means War!”, “On Fire!”, “Beyond Belief”, “Unseen Power”, and “Wake-Up Call”.
Other Achievements
Apart from Grammy and Dove Awards, Petra has also achieved other notable recognitions. They were inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 2000 and the Christian Music Hall of Fame in 2007. Their album “Beyond Belief” was named one of the Top 100 Christian Albums of All Time by CCM Magazine in 2001.
Petra’s success can be attributed to their unique blend of rock music and Christian lyrics. They paved the way for many Christian rock bands that followed and continue to be an inspiration to many musicians today.
Concert Tours and Live Performances
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Petra, the legendary Christian rock band, has been performing live for over five decades. They have toured extensively across the United States and around the world, performing at various venues, ranging from small churches to large arenas.
National and International Tours
Petra has embarked on numerous national and international tours throughout their career. Their tours have taken them to countries such as Mexico, Canada, and the United Kingdom. They have also performed in various cities across the United States, including New York, Los Angeles, and Nashville.
Petra’s tours have been known for their high-energy performances and powerful messages. Their music has touched the hearts of many, and their live shows have been a source of inspiration for millions of fans around the world.
Reunion Shows and Special Events
Petra has also performed at various reunion shows and special events. In 2023, Petra celebrated their 50th anniversary with a reunion tour, performing in cities across the United States. They also performed at special events, such as the Gospel Music Association’s Dove Awards and the Christian Music Hall of Fame induction ceremony.
In addition to their live performances, Petra has also released several live albums, including “Captured in Time and Space” and “Petra Praise: The Rock Cries Out.” These albums capture the energy and excitement of Petra’s live shows and have become fan favorites over the years.
Petra has also embarked on a farewell tour, performing in various cities across the United States. The tour was a bittersweet moment for fans, as it marked the end of an era for one of the most influential Christian rock bands in history.
In conclusion, Petra has had a long and successful career, performing live for over five decades. Their tours, reunion shows, and special events have touched the hearts of millions of fans around the world, and their music continues to inspire and uplift people to this day.
Band Members and Key Personalities
Founding Members
Petra was formed in 1972 by Bob Hartman (guitar), Greg Hough (guitar), John DeGroff (bass), and Bill Glover (drums). The band took its name from the Greek word for “rock”.
Notable Past Members
Over the years, Petra has gone through numerous lineup changes. Notable past members include Greg X. Volz (lead vocals), who left the band in 1985 to pursue a solo career. In 1986, former Head East vocalist John Schlitt joined the band, bringing on a more hard rock/heavy metal-type sound. Another notable past member is John Lawry (keyboards), who joined the band in 1984 and played with them until 1994. Louie Weaver (drums) joined the band in 1979 and played with them until their disbandment in 2006. Ronny Cates (bass) was also a member of Petra during their later years.
Current Lineup
As of the band’s reunion in 2010, the current lineup of Petra consists of Bob Hartman (guitar), John Schlitt (lead vocals), Greg Bailey (bass), David J. Lichens (guitar), and Cristian Borneo (drums).
Throughout the years, Petra has undergone several lineup changes, but Bob Hartman has remained a constant member and has been the driving force behind the band’s success. Louie Weaver, who played drums for Petra for many years, is also a key personality in the band’s history. He is known for his energetic drumming style and his contributions to the band’s sound.
Petra’s lineup changes have not affected the band’s popularity or success. The band continues to be regarded as a pioneer of the Christian rock and contemporary Christian music genres and has won numerous awards over the years.
Christian and Cultural Impact
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Influence on Christian Music
Petra has been widely recognized as one of the most influential Christian rock bands of all time. The band’s unique blend of rock music and biblical messages has inspired and encouraged millions of listeners around the world. Petra’s music has been described as “a powerful fusion of faith and rock & roll,” and their innovative sound has paved the way for many other Christian rock bands that followed in their footsteps.
Petra’s impact on Christian music can be seen in their numerous chart-topping hits on the Christian radio charts. The band has had 13 songs reach No. 1 on the Christian radio charts, and they have won four Grammy Awards for their contributions to contemporary Christian music. Petra’s music has also been featured in numerous Christian films and television shows, further cementing their place in Christian culture.
Outreach and Ministry
In addition to their influence on Christian music, Petra has also had a significant impact on Christian outreach and ministry. The band’s music has been used as a tool for evangelism, and their powerful messages of faith and hope have touched the lives of countless people.
Petra has also been actively involved in various Christian ministries over the years. The band has performed at numerous Christian events and festivals, including the Harvest Crusade and the Billy Graham Crusade. Petra has also been involved in various humanitarian efforts, such as providing aid to victims of natural disasters and supporting various charitable organizations.
Overall, Petra’s impact on Christian music and culture cannot be overstated. The band’s innovative sound and powerful messages have inspired and encouraged millions of listeners around the world, and their legacy continues to live on today.
Petra’s Language and Global Reach
Petra, the American Christian rock band, has a global reach with fans all over the world. The band’s music has been translated into several languages, including Spanish, to reach a wider audience.
Spanish-Language Albums
Petra has released several Spanish-language albums, including “Petra en Alabanza” and “En Alabanza”. These albums contain some of the band’s most popular songs translated into Spanish, such as “Gracias”, “Yo Celebraré/El Espíritu De Dios”, and “La Batalla Es De Nuestro Señor”.
Petra’s Spanish-language albums have been well-received by fans in Spanish-speaking countries, and have helped the band gain even more recognition as one of the world’s most popular Christian rock bands.
International Recognition
Petra’s music has gained international recognition, with the band performing in countries such as Brazil, Japan, and Canada. The band’s popularity has also led to collaborations with international artists, such as the Brazilian band Novo Som.
Petra’s music has been a source of inspiration and encouragement for Christians around the world, and the band’s global reach has helped to spread their message of faith and hope to a diverse audience.
Legacy and Future
Retirement and Farewell
After over three decades in the Christian music industry, Petra announced their retirement and farewell tour in 2005. The band’s final album, “Jekyll & Hyde,” was released in 2003, and the tour concluded in 2006. Fans were saddened by the news that the band would no longer be making music, but Petra left behind an impressive legacy that would continue to influence future generations.
Legacy and Influence on Future Generations
Petra’s music had a significant impact on the Christian rock scene, and their influence can still be heard in the music of many contemporary Christian artists. The band’s blend of hard rock and faith-based lyrics was groundbreaking at the time, and their music continues to inspire and uplift listeners today.
Petra’s classic lineup, which included Bob Hartman, John Schlitt, Louie Weaver, Greg X. Volz, and Mark Kelly, is still revered by fans and musicians alike. The band’s “Back to the Rock” tour in 2010 gave fans a chance to relive some of their favorite Petra songs, and the Classic Petra lineup continues to perform together occasionally.
Petra’s music has also influenced many musicians outside of the Christian rock genre, proving that their appeal goes beyond just the Christian music scene. The band has been inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, won numerous awards, and recorded over 20 studio albums.
In conclusion, Petra’s retirement may have marked the end of an era, but their music and legacy continue to live on. The band’s influence on the Christian rock scene and beyond is undeniable, and their music will continue to inspire and uplift listeners for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the current members of Petra?
As of the current date, Petra is not an active band. However, the band has had many members throughout its history, including Greg X. Volz, John Schlitt, Bob Hartman, and Louie Weaver.
Can you list Petra’s albums in chronological order?
Petra has released many albums throughout its career. Some of their most popular albums include “Come and Join Us”, “Washes Whiter Than”, “Not of this World”, “Beat the System”, “On Fire!”, “Beyond Belief”, “Unseen Power”, and “Petra Praise: The Rock Cries Out”.
Who has been the lead singer for Petra?
Petra has had several lead singers throughout its history, including Greg X. Volz and John Schlitt. John Schlitt has been the lead singer of Petra for the majority of the band’s career.
When are Petra’s 50th Anniversary tour dates?
According to their official website, Petra’s 50th Anniversary reunion tour is scheduled for September 23rd, 2023.
What is the album ‘Beyond Belief’ by Petra about?
The album “Beyond Belief” by Petra was released in 1990 and is considered one of their most successful albums. The album’s themes include faith, hope, and perseverance in the face of adversity.
Who were part of the Petra reunion tour?
The Petra reunion tour featured many past members of the band, including Greg X. Volz, John Schlitt, Bob Hartman, John Lawry, and Louie Weaver. The tour was a celebration of Petra’s 50th anniversary and featured many of the band’s most popular songs.
