The term “Christian music” refers to music that is dedicated to the Christian faith. Gospel music and Christian soft rock are the most popular genres. Although some Christian music is performed as hard rock or heavy metal, this is a relatively uncommon genre. Christian songs typically have lyrics centered on the faith, regardless of the type of music used for the background theme.
Traditional Christian songs are usually performed church choirs or gospel groups as gospel music. Many gospel groups are called quartets because they have four members who sing the songs in four-part harmony. In most cases, men are assigned the vocals for bass and tenor, while women sing the alto and soprano harmonies. Bass is the lowest harmony, followed tenor and alto, with soprano as the highest vocal. In some cases, these groups perform in five-part harmony, which includes an extra soprano vocal known as a second soprano.
Another popular genre of Christian music is Christian soft rock. This music is very similar to mainstream soft rock, with the exception that the lyrics are usually about Christian faith and worship. Christian “lite” rock or inspirational music are other names for this genre of music. Although Christian soft rock is considered non-traditional, it is generally accepted Christians of all faiths. Members of Christian soft rock bands typically sing lead vocals and play guitars, drums, and piano, as well as bass guitar and the occasional wind instrument.
Hard rock and heavy metal are two other musical genres that are occasionally used for Christian entertainment. These genres are less common, and some Christians do not consider them suitable for Christian worship. Except for the song lyrics, which are devoted to Christian faith, Christian hard rock and heavy metal are nearly identical to their mainstream counterparts in almost every way. Christian teenagers and young adults are more likely to listen to these genres. Some Christians find these genres offensive because they believe they promote base emotions that can lead to reckless behavior that is incompatible with their faith.
Christian music can be heard in a variety of settings. This music can be heard in churches, on radio stations, and in concert halls. It’s also a popular choice for weddings, funerals, and other church functions. Christian music groups rarely make as much money as mainstream groups, but they do gain a lot of popularity through touring and music sales.