Christian Folk Music 1970s: Underrated Christian Albums That Shaped a Generation

Like most musical genres, the 1970s was a climactic decade for Christian music. Before the rise of contemporary chart-toppers like Chris Tomlin and Casting Crowns, popular artists such as Phil Keagy, Andraé Crouch, and David Meece sculpted the Christian music market.

So, in today’s post, we’re taking a peek back at the momentous moments of Christian folk music 1970s. Take a look at the unsung artists and albums that laid the foundation for what would become a diverse and soul-stirring genre.

1. Judy Collins – Whales and Nightingales (1970)

Judy Collins’s album Whales and Nightingales is a signpost for her illustrious American folk and pop singer-songwriter career. Renowned for her ethereal voice and eclectic repertoire, Collins captivated audiences and was a prominent figure in the folk scene of the 1960s to ‘70s.

Whales and Nightingales was the third gold record under Collin’s resume, following the success of Wildflowers and Who Knows Where the Time Goes. The album solidified her status as a musical icon, showcasing her impeccable song selection, finely-tuned arrangements, and soprano voice.

The album’s enduring appeal lies in its timelessness. From the haunting use of whale sounds in “Farewell to Tarwathie” to Collins’s expressive vocal performances, each track retains its power to evoke emotion and captivate audiences decades after its release.

One of the highlight tracks in the album is Collins’s rendition of the timeless folk hymn “Amazing Grace.” Recorded in the atmospheric setting of St. Paul’s chapel at Columbia University, her version became a nationwide phenomenon, breaking records in multiple billboard charts.

2. Mark Heard – Setting Yesterday Free (1972)

Mark Heard’s legacy in Christian music resonates profoundly even two decades after his passing. Ironically, despite his immense talent, Heard remained somewhat obscure to mainstream audiences.

Despite being relatively unrecognized during his lifetime, Heard’s raw and introspective songwriting captivated those fortunate enough to discover his music. Blending folk and rock into gospel music, Heard fearlessly tackled themes of consumerism, spirituality, and the human condition.

Setting Yesterday Free, released in 1972, marked Heard’s debut with his band Infinity+3. Backed by talented musicians like Jim Evans, Terry Rogers, and Grace Miller, Heard’s compositions, reminiscent of James Taylor’s introspective style, hinted at his future prominence in the CCM scene.

The album features 11 masterful tracks, each showcasing Heard’s lyrical and musical versatility. It opens with the poignant simplicity of “All My Trials” and ends with the hopeful and powerful message of enduring compassion in “Love.” 

With the album’s blend of heartfelt lyrics and evocative melodies, Setting Yesterday Free remains a treasure worth seeking out for fans of Christian folk music.

3. The 2nd Chapter of Acts – With Footnotes (1974)

The emergence of The 2nd Chapter of Acts marked a significant turning point in the landscape of Christian music during the 1970s. At a time when blending Christian folk with secular music was met with skepticism, the trio fearlessly paved the way for a new era of musical expression within evangelical circles. 

Their debut album, With Footnotes, is often regarded as a pioneering effort that laid the groundwork for the Contemporary Christian Music industry. Featuring notable musicians such as Michael Omartian on keyboards and session pro Joe Osborn on bass, With Footnotes showcased diversity in musical influences and styles. 

One standout track, “Easter Song,” exemplifies the album’s eclectic nature, blending baroque piano melodies with soaring vocals and pompous synthesizers.

Despite its seemingly disparate elements, With Footnotes offers a captivating glimpse into the creative vision of a talented vocal trio. From the stirring anthem “The Devil’s Lost Again” to the enchanting opener “Which Way The Wind Blows,” the album remains a testament to the innovative spirit of its creators.

4. Keith Green – For Him Who Has Ears to Hear (1977)

Keith Green’s contribution to the Christian music scene is a testament to his profound faith and talent. As a passionate singer-songwriter, Green’s spirited piano and heartfelt lyrics resonated deeply with believers, particularly during the vibrant Jesus Movement of the 1970s.

Green dedicated himself to composing music for his faith and released his first Christian record, For Him Who Has Ears to Hear, in 1977. Packed with Keith’s remarkable piano skills and fervent displays of conviction, the album showcases his unique blend of pop melodies and spiritual depth.

In tracks like “You Put This Love in My Heart,” Green’s passion shines through as he sings the transformative power love song with infectious enthusiasm. His clever lyricism shines through in tracks like “He’ll Take Care of the Rest,” where he blends biblical stories into contemporary themes with wit and insight.

Despite his untimely death in a plane crash in 1982, Green’s music and ministry continue to impact listeners, leaving a lasting legacy that transcends generations.

5. Amy Grant – My Father’s Eyes (1979)

Amy Grant’s album My Father’s Eyes marked a significant milestone in her burgeoning career as a contemporary Christian artist. Rising to fame as a teenager in the late ’70s, the album demonstrated remarkable growth in Grant’s maturity and musicality.

My Father’s Eyes showcased Grant’s evolution as an artist, yielding her first Christian number-one hit with the title track and the Top Ten Christian hit “Faith Walkin’ People.” The album’s 13 tracks delve into themes of sadness, struggles, faith, and surrender, offering listeners a glimpse into Grant’s journey at the time.

From the contemplative ballad “Always the Winner” to the spirited anthem “Lay Down,” Grant’s music resonated with audiences, inviting them to reflect on their relationship with faith. With tracks like “Bridegroom” and “Keep It on Going,” Grant and producer Brown Bannister pioneered a new style of Christian music.

Final Thoughts

The 1970s witnessed a remarkable evolution in Christian folk music, as artists like Judy Collins, Mark Heard, The 2nd Chapter of Acts, Keith Green, and Amy Grant left a memorable mark on the genre. Their heartfelt lyrics, soul-stirring melodies, and unwavering faith continue to inspire listeners today. 

Explore these timeless albums and discover the rich tapestry of Christian music history!