Petra
Petra: A Journey of Faith, Music, and Controversy
In the tapestry of Christian rock music, Petra stands as an iconic ensemble whose soaring harmonies and poignant lyrics have inspired generations of believers. Their journey, spanning over four decades, has been marked by both triumphs and trials.
Early Beginnings and Meteoric Rise
Petra was born in 1972 in Fort Wayne, Indiana, out of the ashes of the band The System. Led by Bob Hartman (vocals), Greg Hough (guitars), John Slick (drums), and John DeGroff (bass), they released their self-titled debut album in 1974. Their blend of hard rock and spiritual themes quickly resonated with Christian audiences, propelling them to mainstream success.
Breakthrough Albums and Global Impact
Throughout the 1980s, Petra released a string of groundbreaking albums that solidified their status as one of the most influential Christian rock bands. "More Power to Ya" (1982), "Not of This World" (1983), and "Beat the System" (1985) showcased their musical prowess and resonated deeply with fans worldwide. Their concerts became massive gatherings where thousands of people found solace and inspiration in their music.
Challenges and Controversies
While Petra's music brought joy to many, it also stirred controversy. Their outspoken lyrics on social issues, such as abortion and homosexuality, drew criticism from both conservative and liberal Christians. In 1992, they faced intense backlash for their performance at the MTV Video Music Awards, which some deemed inappropriate for a Christian band.
Lineup Changes and the Legacy Continues
Throughout their career, Petra underwent several lineup changes. Keyboardist John Lawry, who joined in 1983, became an integral part of the band's sound. In 1995, original lead singer Bob Hartman retired, and John Schlitt took over the vocal duties. Schlitt's powerful vocals and charismatic stage presence brought a new energy to Petra.
Discography
* Petra (1974)
* Come and Join Us (1977)
* More Power to Ya (1982)
* Not of This World (1983)
* Beat the System (1985)
* Back to the Rock (1986)
* This Means War! (1987)
* On Fire (1988)
* Petra Praise: The Rock Cries Out (1989)
* Beyond Belief (1990)
* Unseen Power (1991)
* Wake-Up Call (1993)
* No Doubt (1995)
* God Fixation (1997)
* Double Take (1999)
* Revival (2001)
* Jekyll & Hyde (2003)
* Farewell (2005)
Members
* Bob Hartman (vocals)
* Greg Hough (guitars)
* John Slick (drums)
* John DeGroff (bass)
* John Lawry (keyboards)
* John Schlitt (vocals)
Legacy
Today, Petra remains a beloved band whose music continues to inspire and encourage Christians worldwide. Their powerful anthems, such as "Over the Horizon," "More Power to Ya," and "Not of This World," have become timeless classics. Despite the challenges they faced, Petra's unwavering faith and commitment to spreading the gospel through music have left an enduring legacy in the annals of Christian rock.
In the tapestry of Christian rock music, Petra stands as an iconic ensemble whose soaring harmonies and poignant lyrics have inspired generations of believers. Their journey, spanning over four decades, has been marked by both triumphs and trials.
Early Beginnings and Meteoric Rise
Petra was born in 1972 in Fort Wayne, Indiana, out of the ashes of the band The System. Led by Bob Hartman (vocals), Greg Hough (guitars), John Slick (drums), and John DeGroff (bass), they released their self-titled debut album in 1974. Their blend of hard rock and spiritual themes quickly resonated with Christian audiences, propelling them to mainstream success.
Breakthrough Albums and Global Impact
Throughout the 1980s, Petra released a string of groundbreaking albums that solidified their status as one of the most influential Christian rock bands. "More Power to Ya" (1982), "Not of This World" (1983), and "Beat the System" (1985) showcased their musical prowess and resonated deeply with fans worldwide. Their concerts became massive gatherings where thousands of people found solace and inspiration in their music.
Challenges and Controversies
While Petra's music brought joy to many, it also stirred controversy. Their outspoken lyrics on social issues, such as abortion and homosexuality, drew criticism from both conservative and liberal Christians. In 1992, they faced intense backlash for their performance at the MTV Video Music Awards, which some deemed inappropriate for a Christian band.
Lineup Changes and the Legacy Continues
Throughout their career, Petra underwent several lineup changes. Keyboardist John Lawry, who joined in 1983, became an integral part of the band's sound. In 1995, original lead singer Bob Hartman retired, and John Schlitt took over the vocal duties. Schlitt's powerful vocals and charismatic stage presence brought a new energy to Petra.
Discography
* Petra (1974)
* Come and Join Us (1977)
* More Power to Ya (1982)
* Not of This World (1983)
* Beat the System (1985)
* Back to the Rock (1986)
* This Means War! (1987)
* On Fire (1988)
* Petra Praise: The Rock Cries Out (1989)
* Beyond Belief (1990)
* Unseen Power (1991)
* Wake-Up Call (1993)
* No Doubt (1995)
* God Fixation (1997)
* Double Take (1999)
* Revival (2001)
* Jekyll & Hyde (2003)
* Farewell (2005)
Members
* Bob Hartman (vocals)
* Greg Hough (guitars)
* John Slick (drums)
* John DeGroff (bass)
* John Lawry (keyboards)
* John Schlitt (vocals)
Legacy
Today, Petra remains a beloved band whose music continues to inspire and encourage Christians worldwide. Their powerful anthems, such as "Over the Horizon," "More Power to Ya," and "Not of This World," have become timeless classics. Despite the challenges they faced, Petra's unwavering faith and commitment to spreading the gospel through music have left an enduring legacy in the annals of Christian rock.