Everything Old Becomes New Again: A Nostalgic Journey Through Christian Music

Is it just me, or does it seem like everything old is becoming new again? Lately, I’ve noticed that trends from the past—especially from the 70s and 80s—are making a serious comeback, not just in fashion, but in music too. I’m at that sweet spot in life where I’m seeing trends cycle around, and it’s like being in a constant loop of "Oh, I remember this!" Whether it's the neon scrunchies, high-waisted jeans, or, my personal favorite, the resurgence of Christian music from my childhood, it’s all coming back, and I’m here for it.

Growing up in the 70s and 80s, my life soundtrack was a mix of rock, pop, and, of course, Christian music. The 80s were all about big hair, big guitars, and bigger dreams. I had my share of cassette tapes (remember those?) and vinyl albums, and I loved how music could take you to another place, another time. I was all about the big hair bands, but there was also something deeply special about the faith-based artists that shaped my youth.

Artists like Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith, and Jars of Clay were my musical companions—words of faith wrapped in melodies that resonated with my soul. These artists weren’t just icons of a generation; their music was, and still is, a soundtrack to my spiritual journey.

A Blast from the Past: For King & Country's Tribute to Michael W. Smith

Speaking of timeless tunes, I just had to mention how exciting it is that For King & Country decided to re-record Michael W. Smith's iconic song “A Place in This World” and release it again!

 

What a brilliant way to walk down memory lane while introducing a new generation to the beauty of that message. It's like they’ve taken a cherished piece of the past and polished it for today’s listeners, and I’m here for it.

For me, it’s a lovely reminder of the power of nostalgia. When we revisit these songs, we don’t just listen to the music—we reconnect with a time in our lives when things felt simpler and more innocent. It's almost like the soundtrack of our past gives us a sense of comfort in a world that can sometimes feel overwhelming.

Back when I worked in Christian radio in Orlando, I had the privilege of hosting a retro show where I played the music of my youth. It was such a blast to interview the people I grew up listening to! Does the name Farrell and Farrell ring a bell to you? Or maybe Bryan Duncan? What about 4Him? These were the voices that filled my radio back in the day. And yes, even Stryper—the rock band with a heart for faith—has made a grand return with a brand new album. Who would’ve thought, right?

It’s heartwarming to see so many of the artists who shaped the sound of Christian music in the 80s and 90s still making music today, still singing with that same passion. And as much as I love seeing these artists return to the spotlight, I also hope that this signals a revival of the style and spirit of the 70s and 80s Christian music scene. There was something incredibly pure and worshipful about that era. Songs weren’t just about catchy hooks; they were about an authentic connection to God, wrapped in the rhythms and melodies of the time. It’s a feeling I wish we could recapture.

The resurgence of 80s-style Christian music isn’t just about rehashing old tunes—it’s about remembering the simplicity and purity of that music and how it helped us connect with God. It’s a beautiful reminder that, just like the trends in fashion and music, God isn’t done with us yet. Just as music can evolve and grow, so too can our faith, and perhaps we can look back at how we felt in those moments of worship and use that as a bridge to reach the new generation. There’s a timeless quality to the message of faith that transcends the years.

As we walk down memory lane with our favorite songs from Stryper (yes, you too, Stryper fans!), Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith, and more, it’s an opportunity for us to reflect on what those songs meant to us in the past and how they can continue to speak to us—and others—today. After all, the message of hope and grace isn’t bound by time, and the music of our youth can serve as both a reminder of God’s faithfulness and an invitation to a new generation to experience it too.