It's Been a Minute How Christianity got popular again
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Dec 24, 2025 Kelsey Kramer McGinnis, a reporter for Christianity Today and expert in contemporary Christian music, dives into the recent surge of Christian artists on the Billboard charts. She explains how this revival stems from worship music's appeal and its clean, radio-friendly sound. The conversation touches on the historical crossover moments in CCM, the megachurch influence on worship production, and the industry's revenue streams. Kelsey also explores how cultural shifts, including the quest for deeper meaning and conservative ties, are driving audiences towards this music.
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CCM Is An Industry, Not Just A Genre
- CCM functions more like an industry ecosystem than a single musical genre.
- Kelsey Kramer McGinnis explains CCM mirrors mainstream radio style but removes objectionable content.
Worship Music, Not Pop, Is Breaking Through
- The current surge centers on worship music designed for congregational singing.
- This moment differs from past crossovers because songs aim to be used in church services, not just radio hits.
Segregation Shaped CCM And Gospel Lines
- Racialized marketing shaped separate CCM and gospel traditions historically.
- Kelsey links those divides to early 'race records' and ongoing church segregation affecting sound and marketing.