Petra (band)
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1972 |
| Headquarters | United States |
| Products | Christian rock music, contemporary Christian music |
Petra is a pioneering American band in the realms of Christian rock and contemporary Christian music, frequently hailed as the "world’s leading Christian rock ensemble." Established in 1972, the group's name derives from the Greek term meaning "rock." Although the band officially ceased activities in 2006, Petra has since reunited for performances and issued albums in November 2010 and November 2017. In 2013, the group reassembled with new drummer Cristian Borneo, recording the track "Holy is Your Name" prior to resuming live tours.
Originally inspired by The Eagles and Lynyrd Skynyrd, Petra’s musical direction transitioned in the early 1980s toward a more vigorous rock sound reminiscent of Foreigner, Styx, and Journey. During the 1980s and early 1990s, Petra ranked among the most influential Christian rock bands worldwide, achieving hundreds of thousands in album sales, packed concert venues, and consistent top rankings on Christian radio charts. Their style and music left a lasting impact on numerous artists during a time when Christian rock frequently faced resistance from conservative religious groups.
Over more than thirty years, Petra experienced multiple personnel changes but produced 20 studio albums, alongside two Spanish-language releases and two live recordings, collectively selling close to 10 million units. The band garnered 13 Grammy Awards nominations, winning four times, and secured 10 Dove Awards. Their most notable single, "The Coloring Song," simultaneously led three Christian radio charts. At their height, Petra’s tours were comparable in popularity to those of Amy Grant within Christian circles. They hold the distinction of being the first rock band inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame and the first Christian group included in the Hard Rock Cafe memorabilia collection.
Petra concluded its initial career phase with a farewell tour in 2005, documented on both CD and DVD, officially ending on January 1, 2006, in Murphy, North Carolina. Since then, their performances have been intermittent. In November 2010, a lineup from the mid-1980s reformed as Classic Petra, releasing Back to the Rock, which featured new songs alongside updated versions of their classic hits. This was followed by a live CD and DVD release in 2011. In 2023, Petra celebrated its 50th anniversary with tours across the United States and internationally.
Musical style
Throughout its existence, Petra adapted its sound to maintain appeal among younger listeners while staying rooted in rock music. Initially, their style was diverse, drawing from influences such as The Eagles, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and Kansas, highlighted by electric twin-guitar leads similar to those of the Allman Brothers Band.
During the 1980s, Petra blended keyboards and synthesizers with their guitar-centered rock foundation. Early in that decade, their pop-rock approach resembled bands like Foreigner and Styx, progressively integrating synthesizers and electronic elements. By the late ’80s, a change in lead vocals brought about a shift toward guitar-driven hard rock akin to Def Leppard, Aerosmith, and Journey, aligning with both Christian rock’s rising mainstream acceptance and Petra’s commercial peak.
As alternative rock emerged in the mid-1990s, Petra’s musical direction softened with greater use of acoustic guitars and gentler melodies, including an entirely acoustic album. The 2003 release saw a return to their hard rock origins, while the Classic Petra reunion in 2010 sought to modernize early ’80s favorites by re-recording them with contemporary production while adding two new tracks that reflected their original guitar- and keyboard-based rock sound.[1]
1972–1979: Formation and Early Years
In the early 1970s, guitarist and songwriter Bob Hartman established the band Dove alongside bassist John DeGroff, who soon departed to enroll at Fort Wayne’s Christian Training Center Bible school. Hartman followed suit, and in 1972, together with DeGroff, guitarist Greg Hough, and drummer Bill Glover, they created Petra.
Petra began performing at modest venues throughout the Midwest—such as churches, coffee shops, and parks—aiming to communicate Christian messages through their music. Glover later recalled their intention to spread "God's Word" widely by playing in locations like parking lots, college campuses, and Fort Wayne’s The Adam's Apple coffeehouse.
By combining rock music with evangelistic themes, Petra emerged as trailblazers within the Jesus Music movement linked to the late 1960s and 1970s Jesus Movement. Despite facing resistance from some church leaders and limited exposure on Christian radio stations, Petra endured criticism related to their rock style while gaining increasing popularity.
Petra (1974)
The unique blend of Petra’s sound and spiritual message attracted the attention of Paul Craig Paino from Myrrh Records, who convinced founder Billy Ray Hearn to witness one of their live performances. Impressed, Hearn signed the band in 1973 to produce their debut album, which he later described as "the most radical thing around."
Lacking a dedicated lead singer, Hartman and Hough shared vocal duties on the 1974 self-titled album. Characterized by "tight, Allman Brothers-type dual guitar lines," Petra featured standout tracks like the cult-favorite country-inspired "Lucas McGraw" and the groundbreaking Christian blues number "Backslidin' Blues." As one of the few Christian rock groups at that time, Petra attracted larger audiences, prompting Myrrh to commission a follow-up album aimed at reaching non-Christian listeners to support their evangelistic efforts.
Come and Join Us (1977)
By 1976, drummer Glover had exited the band and was replaced briefly by drummers including Bob Rickman and Mark Richards; however, Richards left prior to recording sessions. Petra brought back Glover as a studio musician for their second album.
Acknowledging Hartman’s vocal limitations within their musical style, Petra incorporated guest vocalists such as former lead singer Greg X. Volz, who performed on two tracks including a rendition of Argent's "God Gave Rock and Roll to You." Myrrh intended to release this song as a single for secular radio play, generating controversy due to its challenge of conservative church expectations. Additional guest artists featured were Steve Camp, Karen Morrison, and Austin Roberts.
Disagreements with the label influenced the album’s production: Myrrh rejected Hartman’s original title proposal God Gave Rock and Roll to You for the record and removed the blues-influenced track "Killing My Old Man" due to its contentious content (this song was later included on Never Say Die). With a heavier sound drawing inspiration from bands like Led Zeppelin and Deep Purple, Come and Join Us was released in 1977 but experienced disappointing sales, leading Myrrh to drop Petra from their roster.
Washes Whiter Than (1979)
In 1979, Petra experienced personnel shifts as Hough and DeGroff exited, leaving Hartman alongside the newly added guitarist, keyboardist, and vocalist Rob Frazier. Lacking a permanent drummer, Hartman brought in Greg Volz, who notably turned down an offer to become lead singer for REO Speedwagon in order to join Petra. Although the band faced difficulties balancing explicitly Christian themes with wider audience appeal, they secured a contract with Star Song Records for their third studio effort. Following a nine-month hiatus, Hartman, Frazier, and Volz produced Washes Whiter Than, an album characterized by softer rock tones and lyrics aimed at inspiring young believers. This release featured Petra’s inaugural radio single, "Why Should the Father Bother?", highlighting the group’s artistic growth beyond their initial hard rock identity.
1980–1985: The Greg X. Volz era
Even though "Why Should the Father Bother?" reached number 16 on Christian radio charts in 1979, Washes Whiter Than encountered disappointing sales largely due to distribution challenges. After Frazier’s departure, Hartman and Volz became the mainstays of the band. Hartman then enlisted bassist Mark Kelly and keyboardist John Slick after meeting them during a Bible study session. To steer Petra back to their hard rock origins, Star Song appointed producer Jonathan David Brown and brought on manager Mark Hollingsworth to enhance the band’s promotional efforts.
Never Say Die (1981)
Recorded with session drummer Keith Edwards, Never Say Die included "The Coloring Song," which had originally been performed by Volz’s former group. This track topped three Christian radio charts and secured a top-five position on another. The album’s refined rock style drew comparisons to bands like Foreigner and Styx and was lauded by CCM Magazine as Petra’s most accomplished release up to that point. The album's success facilitated national touring opportunities, including opening for Servant during their 1981–82 tour. Never Say Die marked Petra’s first entry on the Billboard Top 40 Inspirational LPs chart, peaking at number 7 in April 1982.
More Power to Ya (1982)
With Louie Weaver joining as drummer in 1982, Petra embarked on extensive tours and recorded More Power To Ya, an album that combined hard rock elements with accessible ballads suitable for radio play. Addressing controversies such as backmasking, the album featured a reversed message explicitly denying any hidden satanic content. The title track became the fourth most frequently played song on Christian adult contemporary stations in 1983. Widely regarded as Petra’s finest work at that time, it also gained mainstream attention through Star Song’s distribution partnership with Word Records. By mid-1983, sales had exceeded those of Never Say Die, surpassing 125,000 copies sold.
Not of This World (1983)
Building on their touring success with Servant during 1982–83, Petra entered the studio to produce Not of This World. This record introduced synthesizers alongside the continued use of the Hammond organ, showcased Petra’s initial instrumental tracks, and hinted at a heavier, guitar-centric sound. Receiving strong critical praise, it secured Petra’s inaugural Grammy nomination in 1985. The album’s title track became a significant radio favorite, propelling the album to overtake Amy Grant’s Age to Age as the top Christian chart album in early 1984. To support the release, Petra launched their most extensive tour to date, completing more than 150 shows worldwide.
Manager Mark Hollingsworth highlighted the band’s intention to rival secular acts such as Journey and Styx by matching their production standards. By the end of 1984, Not of This World ranked among the year’s five best Christian albums, while Petra earned Billboard’s second spot for Top Inspirational Artist, trailing only Amy Grant.
Beat the System (1985)
At the height of their commercial success, Petra recorded their final studio album featuring Greg X. Volz with producer Jonathan David Brown. Pursuing a more electronic soundscape, Brown incorporated programmed keyboards and drum machines, which limited input from members Mark Kelly and Louie Weaver during sessions. Keyboardist John Lawry officially joined near the conclusion of recording. Released in 1985, Beat the System marked a pronounced shift toward synthesizer-driven music and sold over 200,000 units within four months. The album rapidly ascended to No. 1 on Billboard’s Inspirational LPs chart by June and maintained that position for more than two months. By decade's end, it was recognized as one of the top Christian albums of the 1980s and earned Petra their second Grammy nomination in succession.
By this point in 1985, Petra had surpassed one million records sold since Never Say Die, solidifying their status as the leading gospel group nationally. Although no singles from this album achieved radio hit status, its robust sales underscored Petra’s dominant market presence.
Captured in Time and Space (1986)
After extensive touring that attracted audiences exceeding half a million attendees, Petra released Captured in Time and Space, a live album and video documenting performances from late 1985 concerts. Despite their growing popularity, financial pressures sparked disagreements between Bob Hartman and Greg X. Volz regarding business matters. Following completion of the tour and live release, Volz announced his departure from the band.
1986–1994: Petra's peak
Speculation about disbanding circulated after Volz left; however, Hartman recruited John Schlitt—former vocalist for Head East who had recently embraced Christianity—to join Petra. Schlitt made his debut with the band during an early 1986 Australian tour.
Dissatisfied with Brown’s production on the live album, Petra parted ways with him and enlisted producers John and Dino Elefante. This collaboration combined with Schlitt's vocals reshaped Petra’s sound and ushered in their most commercially successful era.
Back to the Street (1986)
Petra’s first studio effort featuring Schlitt presented a full-band performance without session musicians for the first time since More Power to Ya. Prioritizing guitar-driven arrangements over keyboards and avoiding predictable ballads, Back to the Street represented a transitional musical approach that achieved moderate sales but garnered positive critical responses. The album received a Grammy nomination alongside three Dove Award nominations including Artist of the Year.
This Means War! (1987)
Recorded shortly after concluding their tour, this release further emphasized arena rock influences with Schlitt’s vocals front and center alongside robust guitar work. The lyrics intensified themes of spiritual warfare as a response to critics such as televangelist Jimmy Swaggart. The title track quickly climbed charts and earned another Grammy nomination.
On Fire! (1988)
Expanding on prior motifs, On Fire! delivered Petra’s heaviest sound yet—hard rock bordering on metal—with singles like "Mine Field" reaching No. 1 across multiple Christian radio formats. The tour supporting this album featured elaborate stage effects including a massive flaming sword prop. During this period bassist Mark Kelly was replaced by Ronny Cates.
Petra Praise: The Rock Cries Out (1989)
Leveraging increased credibility within church circles through tours with evangelist Josh McDowell, Petra released what is widely regarded as Christian music’s first contemporary praise-and-worship album featuring classic hymns reinterpreted in rock style. Certified Gold by 1998, it remained on Christian sales charts for nearly twelve months and won a Dove Award for its packaging design.
Beyond Belief (1990)
This concept album paired hard rock songs with an accompanying video storyline. Drawing comparisons to arena rock acts like Kansas, it became Petra’s most commercially successful project—reaching No. 1 on Christian charts—and earned them their first Grammy victory along with multiple Dove Awards including Group of the Year. Nationwide sold-out arena tours cemented their peak popularity.
Unseen Power (1991)
Seeking artistic growth while retaining core elements, Petra collaborated with producer Neil Kernon to create a rhythmically driven record incorporating gospel choir influences. Released through secular label Epic Records, it debuted atop Billboard’s Christian charts and garnered their second Grammy win along with additional Dove Award honors.
Wake Up Call (1993)
Following an uncommon year-long break, Petra adopted a more authentic style under producer Brown Bannister featuring midtempo tracks with a rawer edge. This approach received critical acclaim, secured another Grammy award along with Dove recognitions, and maintained strong chart performance.
After this release Bob Hartman retired from touring but continued contributing as a songwriter.
1995–2002: The post-Hartman era
Despite significant lineup changes including departures of keyboardist John Lawry and touring guitarist David Lichens, vocalist John Schlitt assumed administrative responsibilities while new musicians joined for live performances.
No Doubt (1995)
Returning to production by the Elefante brothers targeting younger listeners, No Doubt scaled back electronic drum usage but received mixed reviews citing uninspired material. Although it debuted at No. 2 on Christian charts and reached No. 91 on Billboard 200, sales were weaker compared to previous releases.
Internal conflicts led to further personnel shifts prior to subsequent albums.
Petra Praise 2: We Need Jesus (1997)
The follow-up praise-and-worship album featured acoustic instrumentation representing another stylistic transition. With guest vocalist Lou Gramm from Foreigner appearing on the title track, it reached No. 1 on Christian charts but peaked modestly at No. 155 overall. Critical reception was divided; some dismissed it as "religious muzak." Despite winning a Dove Award, it failed to reinvigorate commercial success.
God Fixation (1998)
With new members influencing songwriting toward softer alternative rock styles, this album earned favorable reviews and a Grammy nomination but underperformed commercially—failing to chart on Billboard 200 or rise above tenth place on Christian charts.
Facing criticism from fans for straying too far from their hallmark sound, Schlitt stressed that changes were necessary due to declining sales.
Double Take (2000)
To fulfill contractual commitments with Word Records, Petra re-recorded acoustic versions of previous hits supplemented by two new songs. Largely overlooked by label promotion and rejected by many fans for reimagining classics, it sold fewer than 40,000 copies despite some positive critiques. The album earned their fourth Grammy; however, some viewed this recognition as undeserved.
Subsequently Petra parted ways with Word Records amid uncertain prospects; Schlitt sought a label committed to revitalizing their career.
Petra was inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, becoming the first rock group honored there.
Further lineup departures left only Schlitt and Louie Weaver remaining from recent eras.
Revival (2001)
Signed by Inpop Records—founded by Newsboys’ Peter Furler—Petra released another praise-and-worship collection produced by former Sonicflood members with Bob Hartman returning for studio contributions but not touring involvement. Despite positive critical feedback including commendations for an updated "Amazing Grace," limited airplay prevented commercial charting.
Touring personnel included Bryce Bell on keyboards, Quinton Gibson on guitars, and Greg Bailey on bass.
2003–2006: Bob Hartman's return and farewell
After internal changes including Louie Weaver’s departure amid disputes, Hartman resumed full-time guitar duties beginning with Jekyll and Hyde. Produced by Peter Furler himself, this release featured heavier guitar riffs with reduced keyboard presence and was acclaimed as Petra’s strongest work in years—returning them to Billboard’s Christian albums chart at No. 22 along with securing a Grammy nomination.
Paul Simmons replaced Weaver on drums for subsequent tours which included reunion concerts featuring original members that drew large international audiences.
Farewell (2005)
In May 2005 John Schlitt announced plans for disbandment following a farewell tour culminating in October with a CD/DVD release titled simply Farewell. Special guests included former members Greg X. Volz and John Lawry performing select songs from their respective tenures.
The final show took place December 31, 2005 – January 1, 2006 marking nearly thirty-four years since Petra's formation.
Vertical Expressions (2007)
Hartman and Schlitt reunited independently as II Guys from Petra releasing a praise-and-worship CD featuring electric rock arrangements of contemporary worship songs along with unreleased material from farewell sessions produced alongside Jim Cooper.
They have occasionally performed acoustic sets together since then.
Reunion shows
The Farewell lineup briefly reunited in late 2007 for Rock & Vida festival in Buenos Aires followed by additional performances through 2010 including Heaven Fest Colorado and Hills Alive Festival South Dakota plus concerts in Brazil along with multiple appearances at Rock & Vida events.
Classic Petra and Back to the Rock (2010–2011)
Core original members Hartman, Volz, Kelly, Weaver, and Lawry reunited to record an album revisiting early-80s hits plus two new tracks titled Back to the Rock. Released digitally late 2010 with physical copies following early 2011 alongside a live concert recording at TBN studios issued digitally then later on DVD.
The classic lineup performed at Cornerstone Festival in July 2011 celebrating classic Christian rock heritage.
40th Anniversary Tour
In July 2013 StarSong issued an extensive compilation covering much of Petra’s career span; the band reunited again featuring Schlitt, Hartman, Bailey & Borneo touring extensively while releasing new single "Holy is Your Name".
They were invited to join Classic Rock Tour 2014 alongside prominent acts such as Asia featuring John Payne & Ray Wilson.
In March 2014 SESAC honored Petra with its Legacy Award recognizing their lasting influence; core members attended performing live at the ceremony.
Classic Petra Resurrection and Back to the Rock II (2017–present)
December 2017 saw release of Back to the Rock II containing re-recordings of additional ’80s hits performed by CPR Band—later known as Classic Petra Resurrection—featuring original members Greg X. Volz, John Lawry, Ronny Cates (later replaced), Louie Weaver, and guitarist Kirk Henderson who was subsequently succeeded by Paul Carson.
Larry Norman
Bob Hartman acknowledged pioneering musician Larry Norman as an inspiration who encouraged him to advance Christian rock music despite early skepticism regarding its compatibility with faith-centered messages.
On others
Throughout its more than three-decade career Petra influenced numerous artists inside and outside Christian music:
- The only Christian band featured at Farm Aid concert in 1992
- First Christian act represented in Hard Rock Cafe memorabilia in 1994
- First rock band inducted into Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 2000
- Recognized by GMA President Frank Breeden as trailblazers within the industry
Their induction into CCM Hall of Fame noted:
Few performers shaped contemporary Christian music's development more profoundly than Petra despite initial controversy; they produced some of its most cherished recordings.
Artists citing Petra as influential include:
- Bart Millard (MercyMe) who credits More Power To Ya
- Chris Tomlin identifying Not of This World as his first Christian album
- Mac Powell (Third Day) aspiring to emulate Petra's impact
- Peter Furler (Newsboys) who produced their final studio project
Tributes
Several artists such as MxPx, Jars of Clay, Kevin Max, Sixpence None the Richer, Plankeye, Grammatrain, Galactic Cowboys contributed covers for tribute album Never Say Dinosaur. Country performer Tim McGraw has performed "More Power To Ya" live including appearances during Hurricane Katrina telethons.
Additional individual song covers appear across various artists' albums spanning multiple genres.
Group history
| Years | Band members | Albums | Video releases | Music videos |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1972–1978 |
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| 1979 |
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| 1981–1983 |
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| 1984–1986 |
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| 1986–1994 |
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| 1995–2006
(various lineups) |
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Following founder Bob Hartman’s leadership exceeding twenty years, drummer Louie Weaver became the longest-serving member after him, while vocalist John Schlitt maintained a two-decade tenure.
Discography
For an exhaustive listing of all albums, compilations, video releases, and guest appearances, please consult the main discography article.
Awards
- Entered Christian Music Hall of Fame in 2007
- Inducted into Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 2000
- Included in Hard Rock Cafe memorabilia collection since 1994
Grammy nominations
The group received numerous Grammy nods over the years, including: Best Performance by a Gospel Duo or Group (1985–1989), Best Rock Gospel Album (1996, 1999, 2004), Best Pop Contemporary Gospel Album (1998)
Grammy Awards
Achieved four Grammy victories for Best Rock Contemporary Gospel Album with: Beyond Belief (1990), Unseen Power (1992), Wake-Up Call (1994), and Double Take (2000)
Dove Awards
Honored with Dove Awards across categories such as Long Form Video (1990), Packaging (1990, 1991), Group of the Year (1991), Rock Album/Song (1991–1998), and Praise & Worship Album (1998)
Additional Honors
Contemporary Christian Album in the Netherlands (1988)
External links
- ↑ Classic Petra official site