Top 10 Best Christian Rock Bands

The Top Ten

Skillet

Skillet is an American Christian rock band formed in Memphis, Tennessee, in 1996. The band has released multiple albums and is known for its energetic live performances and crossover success in both Christian and mainstream rock markets. Skillet's lineup has included founding members John Cooper and... read more

There are two forms of singing: high and low, and light and deep. The lead singer can sing both high and deep, making him sound lower. Both women have amazing range, and the drummer, though female (not bashing women, just saying most are guys), puts some of the best drummers to shame. The backup guitarist can do some of the best picking I've ever heard.
Overall, almost every song they've made is a hit and a huge success. All their instrumental music is amazing, and their voices match their music perfectly. Despite all their heavy rock, you can perfectly understand the lyrics. All in all, each one is super talented and has unique skills. As a band, they make incredible music, impactful lyrics, and glorify and love Christ. Despite all this, unlike most bands, they have outstanding singing ability worthy of professional choirs. They are the best Christian band of all time!
Red

Red is an American Christian alternative metal and alternative rock band from Nashville, Tennessee. The band was formed in 2002 by brothers Anthony Armstrong, who plays guitar, and Randy Armstrong, who plays bass, along with lead vocalist Michael Barnes. Their music blends orchestral elements with hard... read more

As a kid, I thought the only Christian music out there was whatever was played at church on Sunday mornings, because that was what played on the Christian radio stations at home. My mind was blown in middle school when I was introduced to Christian rock bands. I had no idea that Christian music could sound so cool and amazing!
It started mild with Barlow Girl and Superchick, and gradually grew into Skillet, Flyleaf, and Fireflight. One day, I came across "Breathe Into Me" and "Pieces" by Red and fell in love! The depth of the lyrics and the difference in the sound between these two songs, coming from the same band, was incredible. That was ten years ago. Even with bands such as Thousand Foot Krutch, The Protest, Kutless, Skillet, and We Came as Romans at my disposal, Red is still my all-time favorite!
Thousand Foot Krutch

Thousand Foot Krutch is a Canadian Christian alternative rock band that was formed in 1995. They have released nine studio albums, including Phenomenon, The Art of Breaking, and Exhale. In addition, they have released two live albums and several remix albums. The only original member remaining in the... read more

I enjoy some of their songs like War of Change, We Are, The End Is Where We Begin, and Take It Out on Me. These guys were basically my introduction to metal.

This is my favorite band by far. They are such a great band with awesome people! I like Skillet too, but they just aren't as rock. They have a lot of slow songs. And I'm sorry, but I do not like John's voice. Trevor's is so awesome! I love Thousand Foot Krutch so much. They are my role models musically. If any of you haven't listened to them before, I would recommend listening to War of Change, Phenomenon, Move, Welcome to the Masquerade, Fire It Up, and Fly on the Wall.
Switchfoot

Switchfoot is an American alternative rock band from San Diego, California. The band was formed in 1996 and performs as a quintet. Known for hit singles like Meant to Live and Dare You to Move, Switchfoot has released multiple albums and has a strong following in both Christian and mainstream rock circles... read more

Rare band - maybe the only one - whose every song I could listen to. Studio and live, musically and lyrically, there is zero I've come across that would "silence my love" of Switchfoot.
I thought nothing could top U2 live, but Switchfoot (and Relient K) in Cleveland blew them out of the water. This was in 2017, when they were supposed to be past their prime. Fading West was decent, but I thought it might have signified the beginning of the end. Then they exploded again with Looking for America, making a grown man cry.

I am 70 years old, and just a couple of years ago, when I was going through some very difficult health problems, my youngest son gave me a CD of this excellent group: Switchfoot. I just love them, and all their songs hit the spot for recovery - at least in my mind and heart. The physical stuff is still around, but I have more hope, faith, and a positive outlook on life with their music, which met my needs at the time.
Relient K

The best of all Christian bands, especially from the "The Anatomy of the Tongue in Cheek" to "Mmhmm" albums. They have been my favorite band since I first heard them. The order on this list should be:
1. Relient K (Nothing can beat "More Than Useless" and "Be My Escape")
2. Thousand Foot Krutch (The only band that I like almost as much as Relient K. The album "The End is Where We Begin" made me really like this band.)
3. Hawk Nelson (I love their podcasts)
4. FM Static (Another great band from Trevor McNevan)
5. Petra (The band that started it all.)
6. Family Force 5 (Let me see you WOBBLE!)
7. TobyMac (Even after dc Talk, he's still great. Actually better.)
8. Dc Talk ("Jesus Freak" is probably the most known Christian rock song ever.)
9. Switchfoot (Everyone likes Switchfoot, it seems.)
10. Skillet (A great band, but a little overrated.)
Hope you all agree!
Disciple

Disciple is a Christian metal and rock band from Knoxville, Tennessee, formed in December 1992. The band has released 14 studio albums, 4 EPs, 1 live EP, and 1 compilation album as of 2023. Their 2006 album Scars Remain peaked at number 118 on the Billboard 200 and won a GMA Dove Award for Rock Album... read more

Greatest Christian band - heck, any band - of all time. Their new album, Horseshoes and Hand Grenades, is one of the greatest pieces of work. Are they lacking in their live performances? No, not even close. They are better live than they are on the CD.
All of their live performances on YouTube were rated highly. Led by Kevin Young at the mic, they truly seem like a genuine group of guys worshiping God through their music. You would be foolish not to put them in your top Christian bands and even more foolish not to give their music a chance. Go out and buy Horseshoes and Hand Grenades today.

Disciple is the very best Christian rock band of the last 15 years that is still active. In my opinion, no Christian rock albums have such a strong and powerful message for the Lord Jesus Christ, as well as great rock music, compared to Disciple's "The Scars Remain" and "O God Save Us Now."
Disciple is my most favorite Christian rock band among active Christian bands. They consistently produce great music that lifts up praise to God and encourages Christians to walk and witness for the Lord.
Kutless

Kutless is a Christian rock band from Portland, Oregon, formed in 1999. Since their formation, they have released multiple studio albums and one live album titled Live from Portland. Their music blends elements of alternative rock, worship, and post-grunge, appealing to both Christian and mainstream... read more

Kutless is one of my favorite bands in Christian music. However, while some of their songs may have a "rock appeal" to them, I don't consider them under the rock category, so I can't vote for them here. In all honesty, they were the first Christian music group I ever listened to many years ago. I still think they are one of the best on a consistent basis. They are more contemporary singers than rockers, in my opinion.

When I listen to their songs, especially That's What Faith Can Do, I am inspired, and I pay attention to the lyrics, realizing what faith can really do, and what happens when you have faith and you believe in God.
This band is really inspiring, and I like listening to their songs over and over, without getting tired of it. I would recommend it to anyone.
Newsboys

The Newsboys - and I'm talking about the John James/Peter Furler plus Steve Taylor group, not the new-fangled "Taitboys" - are seriously one of, if not the greatest, Christian rock bands of all time. They have their classic, already untouchable hits like "Shine" and "Breakfast," but I'm constantly amazed at the quality of their deep cuts. From "Going Public" all the way to "In the Hands of God," the Newsboys haven't released a single bad album and have had a huge impact on the progression of Christian music into the '90s and beyond.

I absolutely love the Newsboys. Their songs are fun to listen to but are filled with the truth that comes from the Gospel. "God's Not Dead" is my all-time favorite song and movie. I am a long-time fan.
Their original song "Breakfast" was fun to sing when my daughter was 6 or 7. Her first concert she ever attended was a Newsboys concert when she was 8. God bless you!
Flyleaf

Flyleaf is an American rock band formed in Bell County, Texas, in 2002. The band has charted in the mainstream rock, Christian rock, and Christian metal genres.
Lacey Sturm served as the band's lead vocalist from 2002 until her departure in 2012 due to creative differences. Kristen May replaced... read more

It is incredibly stupid that these bands are ranked above Flyleaf. Most of these bands are so generic. They write the same bland songs about the same bland topics with the same bland beats and the same bland words.
Flyleaf is the only artist in this list in the top twenty that even deserves any recognition.

Flyleaf is the ultimate Christian band! Her voice is the purest voice. Her songs are really down to earth, and she doesn't hide anything. She and her songs are incredibly humble. When I'm going through tough times at home and need music, I listen to her.
Fireflight

I think Fireflight's music rocks, and the message is always about hope and trusting God. Their music has helped me through struggles, and it's the been there, done that approach that I connect with. I prefer their older music, but they are my favorite, no doubt! Thanks, Kyle.

I agree, Fireflight deserves to be in the top 3 or 2. If we were to compare Skillet and Fireflight, they have different styles in making their songs and music. But to determine the best among the two, Fireflight is way better than Skillet.

The Newcomers

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Thrice

Thrice is an American rock band from Irvine, California, formed in 1998. The group was founded by guitarist and vocalist Dustin Kensrue and guitarist Teppei Teranishi while they were in high school. Known for their evolving sound, the band has incorporated post-hardcore, experimental, and alternative... read more

A very unique post-hardcore, alternative, indie Christian rock band. Their lyrics make you think and are actually biblical! Also, their lead singer, Dustin Kensrue, has done some solo work, and it's amazing too!
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Lacey Sturm

Lacey Nicole Sturm, born Lacey Mosley on September 4, 1981, is an American singer and songwriter originally from Homestead, Florida. She was raised in Arlington, Texas, and became known as the co-founder and lead vocalist of the alternative rock band Flyleaf.... read more

Amazing singer with real emotion. She left Flyleaf but proved to be fine on her own with a great debut album. Flyleaf sucks without her.

I didn't really think of her as being a band, but she is. She works with her husband, Josh Sturm.

The Contenders

Casting Crowns

Casting Crowns is a contemporary Christian and Christian rock band formed in 1999 by youth pastor Mark Hall. Hall serves as the band's lead vocalist. The group was originally created as part of a youth ministry at First Baptist Church in downtown Daytona Beach, Florida.

On this list of top ten, Casting Crowns is easily one of the most blatantly Christian bands. If you are too scared to sing about your faith in a clear way, it makes you seem less authentic.
Bands like Red and Skillet are great bands with great messages, but you would be hard-pressed to find more than a handful of songs that actually mention Jesus the Christ, God, the Holy Spirit, or even the devil. Yes, they have songs that you could interpret to be about God, but they never actually mention him. For example, "Hero" by Skillet is a great song but ambiguous, and Skillet's "It's Not Me, It's You" could be interpreted to be about the devil or an ex-girlfriend.
Coincidentally, the higher-ranked groups have more hardcore music than those in the middle or at the end, but they also have a significant lack of God in their lyrics. Their faith just doesn't seem as real. They may be Christian, but it isn't evident in their music.
Sorry for any offenses caused.
Anberlin

Anberlin was an American rock band that originated in Winter Haven, Florida, in 1998. As of 2007, the band included lead vocalist Stephen Christian, guitarists Joseph Milligan and Christian McAlhaney, bassist Deon Rexroat, and drummer Nathan Young. They released several albums and gained a strong following... read more

They've got good instrumentals in every song, whether it's a solo or not. You can tell they know their instruments very well. The songs are deeply written, inspiring, and rocking. The vocalist's voice is unlike any other and can easily be identified as an Anberlin song. They are in my Top 4: Skillet, Red, Thousand Foot Krutch, and then Anberlin. For me, their best work is Feel Good Drag. Just listen to this song, and then you can be the judge.

One of the most underrated bands. Simply one of the best. They are in touch with their fans, as seen in some of the footage I have viewed on YouTube.
Their music delivers powerful and positive messages to all ages. If you haven't heard Anberlin's music, make a point to hear them today. You won't be disappointed!
Disciple Thirteen

Disciple Thirteen's Christian rock group really touched a lot of people with their music at Spirit Celebration Fest. I hope to see them on a Rock and Worship Tour someday. They have a great live show.
On any Christian rock tour that comes to our area, I would like to hear them next to bands like Switchfoot or Mercy Me. They would fit with any modern Christian rock genre.

Singer/songwriter Robert Orndoff of Disciple Thirteen draws on his experience and past life stories as he puts real emotions into his songs. All of the songs he writes are based on how God has intervened in his life and brought joy through His love!
Disciple Thirteen is sure to be the next top-ten Christian rock band in the USA!
Third Day

Third Day doesn't even get 1 percent of the votes? That's completely wrong! Listen to Agnus Dei, Surrender, Make Your Move, and the Live Wire version of Blackbird, and you'll agree that they rock. They're the perfect blend of rock, southern rock, pop, worship, guitar solos, and good old Georgia goodness.

By far, Third Day is the best rock band in terms of playing their songs as well live as in the studio. I heard God of Wonders in a hockey stadium, and it sounded even better than the studio version, if that's possible. Meanwhile, other good studio Christian bands sounded really bad.
Demon Hunter

Demon Hunter is an American Christian metal band from Seattle, Washington, founded in 2000 by brothers Don Clark and Ryan Clark. Although the brothers launched the band together, Don eventually left to focus on his family and design work. Ryan remains the frontman, and the band has released several albums... read more

This is a phenomenal band. They create a tapestry of sound that includes harmonies and melodies with both vocals and instrumentation. Their music includes many layers of sound, and the instrumentation is fantastic. They are incredibly skilled musicians.
Their music ranges from heavy, intricate, and fast to deeply melodic and thoughtful. In my opinion, this is a highly unconventional band that does their own thing for God without being pigeonholed into genres.

Demon Hunter is my absolute favorite band. I have been a fan since 2009 and continue to adore their work. Their music is beautiful and serves as an excellent tribute to God and Christian music as a whole. Not all Christian music needs to be "church music," not that there's anything wrong with contemporary music. Demon Hunter is an awesome band that anyone could learn to love.
P.O.D.

Payable on Death, also known as P.O.D., is a Christian nu metal band formed in 1992 and based in San Diego, California. The band's music combines elements of metal, rap, and reggae. They rose to fame in the early 2000s with hits like Alive and Youth of the Nation.

Without P.O.D., you wouldn't have heard of hardly any other band on this list. Aside from that, there is this little album called Satellite that is, in my opinion, the best Christian Rock album of all time, and it's number 2 in HM Magazine. P.O.D. not only had more number one hits on MTV than any other Christian artist, but they also had the most number one songs on MTV of any rock band, Christian or secular. Set it off!

I mean, come on. How can you even compare any other Christian band to the success of P.O.D.? If you are looking for who has the largest following, the most mainstream songs, and the highest revenue, not one band on this list could compete. They may not be my favorite Christian band, but they are by far the most successful, hands down.
Stryper

Stryper is an American Christian metal band from Orange County, California. The group's lineup consists of Michael Sweet, Oz Fox, Perry Richardson, and Robert Sweet. They gained popularity in the 1980s with albums like To Hell with the Devil and are known for their faith-based lyrics and theatrical performances... read more

While I am not pleased with Stryper's recent release, this band is hands down the number one Christian band of all time, bar none. To deny Stryper this honor is to ignore the challenges Christian Rock faced to gain acceptance. After all, how many Christian Rock bands today have to deal with both the secular world and churches picketing their concerts?
While it's not an excuse, it is hard to be overly critical of Stryper. Churches closed their doors to them, and Christian bookstores refused to carry their music. In terms of quality and the obstacles they had to overcome, there is no band greater than Stryper.

There is zero doubt that A) Stryper is a Christian band (have you looked at their later lyrics? I have. Check out their latest release, "Murder by Pride." If you don't think this is Christian, you can't read), and B) Stryper is the ONLY band that should be at the top of this list.
They were the first to make it on the world stage. They opened the door for the rest of these acts and are still out there today, touring the world 20 to 25 years after their heyday.
Hawk Nelson

Hawk Nelson is a Canadian rock band from Peterborough, Ontario. Formed in 2000, the band has released eight studio albums. Over the years, their musical style has evolved from punk rock to a more pop-rock sound.

I love Hawk Nelson so much. They are so motivational. They are special to me because one of their songs is what motivated me to get saved. I just hold them in a special place in my heart.

They may not be the best lyrically or musically, but you always find yourself jamming. "California" has been my alarm for school for years now. They are just straight-up punk rock.

This band actually sings about God and Christ's sacrifice and wanting to be more with Him. The lyrics are stunning. I can't even say more. You HAVE to listen for yourself.
We As Human

Sadly, they aren't super special, but they could be. Their guitars aren't amazing, but they have much more potential than anything Skillet has ever done (I'm using them for comparison because they are number one). Their vocalist is reminiscent of John Cooper's old days - a plain, powerful, raspy voice. The drums are nothing special. Jen Ledger beats this guy out. She plays almost as well and sings at the same time. The bassist doesn't do very much, and I would love it if he got more creative.
Not many Christian rock bands have creative bassists, or are very creative in general for that matter. My tip to We As Human is to be more creative with all of your instruments and to articulate the Christian message even more. Don't try to go secular with songs like "Strike Back." Make songs like the first version of "I Stand" and "Burning Satellites." Please. Guitarists, don't just use the same scales and shred on them like every other rock band. Don't just sing "Christian" lyrics that aren't definitive in either direction. Don't just use the root note for bass, and don't just play the drums using the same formula.
As I said, they do these things better than most of the bands here, but they have so much untapped potential.
8/10
TobyMac

Kevin McKeehan, better known by his stage name TobyMac, is a Christian hip-hop recording artist, music producer, songwriter, and author. He first gained fame as a member of the Christian vocal trio DC Talk. Following the group's hiatus, he launched a successful solo career with the release of his album... read more

This is ridiculous. At the time I am voting right now, TobyMac is #35. Now I know Toby doesn't only do rock. He isn't committed to the genre like Skillet, Red, or TFK. But he has been a force in creating Christian rock. Back in the days of DC Talk up to his solo album Portable Sounds, rock was his game, and it sounded good. Top 10 for sure.

What? TobyMac should be No. 1 on this list! His songs are totally scripture-inspired and sung from the heart, not to mention award-winning. His band, Diverse City, is the best, and he's got a great sense of humor!
Decyfer Down

Decyfer Down is a Christian rock band formed in 1999 and based in Morehead City, North Carolina. Before 2002, they performed under the name Allysonhymn, pronounced All-eyes-on-Him, until guitarist Christopher Clonts joined the lineup.... read more

These guys are the real deal and have such amazing talent in the band. I hope that more people listen to them.

Decyfer Down is the hard-rock, heart-changing sensation of North Carolina.
They rock!

Casting Crowns is not rock! Neither is Mercy Me! Decyfer Down should be way up in the top ten! They are awesome!
Hillsong United

The Hillsong United band is a worship group that originated from Hillsong Church in Sydney, Australia. They formed in the late 1990s as part of the church's youth ministry. Since then, they have released numerous live and studio albums through Hillsong Music and gained international recognition.

I just love listening to Hillsong. The music is just awesome, and the lyrics get right into the depth of my soul. I suffer from Multiple Sclerosis and always feel uplifted every day listening to Hillsong.
I have great difficulty sleeping at night, so I have started playing Hillsong's quieter songs while trying to sleep, and I feel now I'm sleeping. What a wonderful way to be drifting off to sleep, listening to the powerful, moving words about Jesus.
I still wake up a lot but continue again with Hillsong and feel so peaceful. It's just beautiful. I get so annoyed when Hillsong gets bad press, as if what I get out of Hillsong brings me closer to the Lord, then as far as I'm concerned, that can be only good. I cry with emotion at the beauty of the lyrics. Don't stop ever, Hillsong, as I love you and know in my Holy Spirit that Jesus does too. God bless you all at Hillsong.
Shirley
Family Force 5

FF5, previously known as Family Force 5, The Phamily, Ground Noise, and The Brothers, is an American Christian rock band from Atlanta, Georgia. The band was formed in 2005 by brothers Solomon "Soul Glow Activatur," Joshua "Fatty," and Jacob "Crouton" Olds, along with their friends Nathan Currin ("Nadaddy... read more

Yeah! I like U2 and all (they are my favorite), but they deserve to be on different lists. In the meantime, FF5 is full-out Christian rock and one of the most fun and weirdest groups ever.
I love them! Wobble is an amazing dance song, Chainsaw is hilarious, and Radiator is an epic rocker. Plus, Solomon Olds is epic! Vote FF5!

I don't understand why my favorite band ever is not on the list. These guys are all about having a party for Jesus. They make listening to Christian music actually fun. How can you possibly resist the power of Love Addict?
Pillar

In my opinion, these guys should be in the top 5, along with P.O.D. The problem is that not too many people have heard of them. "Frontline" was the first song I heard by this band, and I've been hooked ever since.
Rob Beckley is a great singer, and Noah Henson, although not a super flashy guitarist, is relatively underrated. I have so much respect for these guys and what they do. Truly a great band.

Pillar has been a leading frontrunner in Christian music for 12 years. Their best two albums, Fireproof and WDWGFH, beat out many albums from bands ahead of them.
Pillar is set to release a new album in 2013, and it is going to be amazing. Pillar is at least in the top ten, and anyone who says differently is just plain terrible at choosing good music.
Project 86

Project 86 is an American alternative metal band that was formed in Orange County, California, in 1996. Primarily associated with Christian rock and alternative metal, the band is known for its intense sound and thought-provoking lyrics. Over the years, they have released multiple albums and experienced... read more

Very few bands have a frontman as inspired as Andrew Schwab. This holds true whether we're talking about secular or Christian bands. Their energy is crazy. I've been revisiting their first three albums for almost 20 years now and am still finding something new to grab onto with each listen.
Inspired and inspiring - that's what Project 86 is and has been for almost as long as I've been listening to and caring about music. If you listened to a Project 86 album years ago and decided it wasn't for you, come back and check out another album. The odds are pretty good that at least one of them is what you're looking for if you're seeking quality hard rock music.

They're simply the best, hands down. You can't beat the way they push themselves sonically on each new record (while still retaining their signature sound), combined with frontman Andrew Schwab's deep, thought-provoking songwriting.
They've kept their sound so fresh from album to album that you can listen through their entire discography back to back and never grow bored due to repetition, which is an incredible accomplishment.