Schlitt Named as “Best Rock Singer in Christian Music History”

Legendary recording artist John Schlitt, best known for his work with Petra, has been named the best rock singer in Christian music history by GospelMusicChannel.com.

Senior music editor Andy Argyrakis selected Schlitt for the top position, identifying the best ten rock singers in terms of undeniable talent, vocal ability and indelible impact upon generations past and present.

“I’m very surprised, but very honored,” said Schlitt upon learning of the announcement. “To be considered first among talent such as Kevin Max and Michael Sweet is truly an honor.” Other artists on the list include Switchfoot lead singer Jon Foreman, 2008 AMA Emerging Artist of the year Mike Farris, Phil Keaggy, dc Talk’s Michael Tait, Skillet’s John Cooper, Burlap to Cashmere lead singer Steven Delopoulos and Tony Vincent.

Schlitt continues to tour as a solo artist and as GospelMusicChannel.com states, “remains one of the most distinctive and impactful men to ever stand behind a microphone.”

With more than three decades worth of water under the musical bridge, John Schlitt has earned multiple Gold Records, Grammys and Dove Awards. He has toured all over the world and has been inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame as a member of Petra. After 20 years fronting Petra, one of the most successful rock bands in Christian music history, Schlitt recently released his third solo album, The Grafting, on 4K Records. Still passionate about the message of the Gospel and compelled to deliver it in his own inimitable fashion, he called on the multiple talents of rising star producer/songwriter Dan Needham (Amy Grant, Petra, Michael McDonald) to help craft his vision.

The Grafting finds Schlitt exploring uncharted musical territory, while remaining anchored by his unmistakable voice. At once intimate and accessible, The Grafting is without a doubt Schlitt’s most potent solo album to date.

For more information on John Schlitt and his latest project, The Grafting, visit johnwschlitt.com.

Tagged as: John Schlitt, Petra

↓ 2 comments

#1 Andrew Greenhalgh on September 1st, 2009 at 12:11 pm

I’m really curious as to what others think about this. While Schlitt is certainly a legend within the genre, to call him the best of the best? I’m just not sure. And no, I’m not entirely sure who else I’d place in that category but, while I’m a huge fan of his, I’m not sure I can put him at the top. Top 10? Sure, maybe even Top 5. I’m just not sure that I can take it that next level. Thoughts?

#2 Bert Saraco on September 1st, 2009 at 2:39 pm

Of course, it’s a hard question – but when you look over the whole spectrum, you’ve got to think about people like Bryan Duncan and – without a doubt – Bob Carlisle. Please forget about “Butterfly Kisses” and dig up some old Allies CDs.
Nobody can touch this guy as a vocalist! Mike Farris and Steve Delopoulos are fine for what they do, but hardly fit into a ‘best vocalist’ category. I always wonder how they come up with these lists. Then there’s the whole world of black Gospel music, where you have legend like Al Green, Marvin Winans, Donnie McClurkin etc.

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