Petra (band)
History
Petra is a pioneering Christian rock band formed in 1972 by Bob Hartman and Greg Hough in Fort Wayne, Indiana. The band's name is derived from the Greek word for "rock," symbolizing both their musical style and their Christian faith. Petra is widely recognized for its significant influence on the development of contemporary Christian music (CCM) and Christian rock genres.
The band's early years were marked by a struggle to gain acceptance within the Christian community, which was initially resistant to rock music. Petra's self-titled debut album, released in 1974, featured a mix of rock and progressive rock elements. Despite limited commercial success, the album laid the groundwork for the band's future endeavors.
In 1979, Petra released "Washes Whiter Than," which marked a shift towards a more radio-friendly sound. The album included the hit single "Why Should the Father Bother?" and helped the band gain a wider audience. This period also saw the addition of Greg X. Volz as the lead vocalist, whose powerful voice became a defining feature of Petra's sound.
The 1980s were a period of significant growth and success for Petra. The release of "Never Say Die" in 1981 and "More Power to Ya" in 1982 solidified their reputation as a leading force in Christian rock. The band's energetic live performances and thought-provoking lyrics resonated with a growing fanbase.
Musical Style and Influences
Petra's musical style evolved over the decades, incorporating elements of classic rock, hard rock, and even pop rock. Their early work was heavily influenced by bands like Led Zeppelin and The Beatles, while their later albums drew inspiration from the burgeoning CCM scene.
The band's lyrics often addressed themes of faith, redemption, and spiritual growth. Songs like "Judas' Kiss" and "This Means War!" tackled complex theological issues, while tracks like "Beyond Belief" and "Creed" offered messages of encouragement and hope.
Petra's use of innovative production techniques and high-quality musicianship set them apart from many of their contemporaries. The band's lineup saw numerous changes over the years, with Bob Hartman remaining the only constant member. Key contributors included John Schlitt, who replaced Greg X. Volz as lead vocalist in 1986, and Louie Weaver, the band's long-time drummer.
Discography
Petra's discography is extensive, with over 20 studio albums, numerous live recordings, and several compilation albums. Some of their most notable releases include:
- Petra (1974)
- Come and Join Us (1977)
- Washes Whiter Than (1979)
- Never Say Die (1981)
- More Power to Ya (1982)
- Not of This World (1983)
- Beat the System (1984)
- Back to the Street (1986)
- This Means War! (1987)
- On Fire! (1988)
- Beyond Belief (1990)
- Unseen Power (1991)
- Wake-Up Call (1993)
- No Doubt (1995)
- God Fixation (1998)
- Jekyll & Hyde (2003)
Each album reflects the band's growth and experimentation with different musical styles while maintaining their core message of faith and hope.
Impact and Legacy
Petra's influence on the Christian rock and CCM genres is profound. They were one of the first bands to successfully bridge the gap between secular rock music and Christian themes, paving the way for future artists in the genre. Their innovative approach to music and ministry earned them numerous awards, including four Grammy Awards and ten Dove Awards.
The band's impact extends beyond their music. Petra's commitment to spreading the Christian message through their lyrics and live performances inspired countless fans and musicians. Their work has been credited with helping to legitimize Christian rock as a viable and respected genre within both the Christian and secular music industries.