Sanctus Real
Sanctus Real: An Unwavering Journey of Faith and Music
Sanctus Real, a Grammy-nominated Christian rock band, has captivated audiences for over two decades with their uplifting lyrics and infectious melodies. Their journey has been marked by both triumphs and tribulations, each experience shaping their artistry and strengthening their bond with their fans.
Formation and Early Years:
Sanctus Real was formed in 1996 in Toledo, Ohio, by Mark Graalman (vocals), Matt Hammitt (guitar, vocals), Dan Gartley (drums), and Chris Rohman (bass). The band's name, meaning "Holy King," reflects their unwavering faith and their desire to create music that glorifies God.
Their debut album, "Sanctus Real," was released in 1999 and quickly gained attention within the Christian music community. The album's lead single, "Nothing to Fear," became a radio hit and set the tone for their future success.
Breakthrough and Commercial Success:
In 2002, Sanctus Real released their sophomore album, "Say It Loud," which included the chart-topping singles "I'm Not Alright" and "Everything About You." The album's raw emotion and honest lyrics resonated with listeners, propelling the band to new heights of popularity.
Over the next several albums, Sanctus Real continued to churn out hit songs, including "Lead Me," "The Redeemer," and "Forgiven." They became regulars on the Christian music festival circuit and earned numerous awards and accolades.
Challenges and Controversies:
Despite their success, Sanctus Real has not been immune to challenges. In 2010, co-founder Matt Hammitt was diagnosed with a rare vocal cord disorder that threatened to end his singing career. However, through determination and faith, he underwent surgery and made a remarkable recovery.
The band has also faced criticism within the Christian community for their association with the contemporary Christian music label, Word Records. Some critics have accused the band of compromising their artistic integrity in order to achieve commercial success.
Discography:
* Sanctus Real (1999)
* Say It Loud (2002)
* Face Down (2004)
* We Need Each Other (2006)
* The Fight (2009)
* Pieces of a Real Heart (2012)
* Lead Me (2014)
* Unstoppable God (2017)
* Breakthrough (2020)
Members:
Current Members:
* Mark Graalman (vocals)
* Dustin Lolli (guitar, vocals)
* Chris Rohman (bass)
* Jake Rye (drums)
Former Members:
* Matt Hammitt (guitar, vocals)
* Dan Gartley (drums)
Legacy and Impact:
Sanctus Real has left an enduring legacy in the world of Christian music. Their songs have inspired countless listeners, providing hope, encouragement, and a reminder of God's unwavering love. Through their music and their unwavering faith, they have forged an unbreakable connection with their fans that continues to grow stronger with each passing year.
Sanctus Real, a Grammy-nominated Christian rock band, has captivated audiences for over two decades with their uplifting lyrics and infectious melodies. Their journey has been marked by both triumphs and tribulations, each experience shaping their artistry and strengthening their bond with their fans.
Formation and Early Years:
Sanctus Real was formed in 1996 in Toledo, Ohio, by Mark Graalman (vocals), Matt Hammitt (guitar, vocals), Dan Gartley (drums), and Chris Rohman (bass). The band's name, meaning "Holy King," reflects their unwavering faith and their desire to create music that glorifies God.
Their debut album, "Sanctus Real," was released in 1999 and quickly gained attention within the Christian music community. The album's lead single, "Nothing to Fear," became a radio hit and set the tone for their future success.
Breakthrough and Commercial Success:
In 2002, Sanctus Real released their sophomore album, "Say It Loud," which included the chart-topping singles "I'm Not Alright" and "Everything About You." The album's raw emotion and honest lyrics resonated with listeners, propelling the band to new heights of popularity.
Over the next several albums, Sanctus Real continued to churn out hit songs, including "Lead Me," "The Redeemer," and "Forgiven." They became regulars on the Christian music festival circuit and earned numerous awards and accolades.
Challenges and Controversies:
Despite their success, Sanctus Real has not been immune to challenges. In 2010, co-founder Matt Hammitt was diagnosed with a rare vocal cord disorder that threatened to end his singing career. However, through determination and faith, he underwent surgery and made a remarkable recovery.
The band has also faced criticism within the Christian community for their association with the contemporary Christian music label, Word Records. Some critics have accused the band of compromising their artistic integrity in order to achieve commercial success.
Discography:
* Sanctus Real (1999)
* Say It Loud (2002)
* Face Down (2004)
* We Need Each Other (2006)
* The Fight (2009)
* Pieces of a Real Heart (2012)
* Lead Me (2014)
* Unstoppable God (2017)
* Breakthrough (2020)
Members:
Current Members:
* Mark Graalman (vocals)
* Dustin Lolli (guitar, vocals)
* Chris Rohman (bass)
* Jake Rye (drums)
Former Members:
* Matt Hammitt (guitar, vocals)
* Dan Gartley (drums)
Legacy and Impact:
Sanctus Real has left an enduring legacy in the world of Christian music. Their songs have inspired countless listeners, providing hope, encouragement, and a reminder of God's unwavering love. Through their music and their unwavering faith, they have forged an unbreakable connection with their fans that continues to grow stronger with each passing year.