by Marisa Hefflefinger

Created on: May 04, 2008

GREAT CHRISTIAN MUSIC FOR TEENS

Music is one of the oldest forms of entertainment. Over the past century, teenagers have used music to shape their personalities in a constantly-changing culture, and ease their pubescent emotions. It is estimated that teens listen to music for three or four hours each day(1). Much of the current music on television and radio boasts lyrics with adult themes and language inappropriate for young ears. Even though teens are confronted with these influences in school on a daily basis, limiting exposure to the bad and increasing exposure to the good will help guide teenagers down the right path. Suggesting Christian music is great place to start.

Those new to Christian music are often surprised that it doesn't all sound like a congregation of adults over sixty chanting along with a pipe organ. Though many contemporary Christian singers and bands record versions of traditional hymns, they do so in a manner cohesive with today's popular music, and extend their performances to all genres of music, as well.

Christian Country

CO3, a male duo, released their first album, Determined. With their blended harmonies, CO3 has a contemporary country sound which they use to worship and encourage other Christians to keep living in hope and faith.

Owning a smooth baritone voice, Josh Turner has been a big name in recent country music. Though he was not originally advertised as a Christian artist, songs like Long Black Train and Me and God have pulled Turner into mainstream to cross over into the Christian genre.

Christian Alternative

Relient K, a band of four twenty-something guys, rock punked-out tunes with messages of giving up your life to God, as in the song Be My Escape, and staying strong in a crazy world, ala tune Pressing On.

Florida-based band, Anberlin, uses their strong alternative rock sound to share their appreciation for the good things in life and the chance given to all of us to make a difference.

Christian Metal

The songs, Nothing Left, and musical sequel, The Sound of Truth, are performed by metalcore band, As I Lay Dying. The clear and screamed vocals, heavy drums, and intense guitar tell how a lack of acceptance of all people leads to societal problems which can destroy lives.

Christian Rock

Their classic rock beat and gruff vocals have made Third Day one of the most popular Christian rock bands. Their lyrics cover a multitude of topics from asking for forgiveness to begging for God's will.

As an ordained minister, Jeremy Camp uses his scriptural

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