Andraé Crouch and his journey

The name Andraé Crouch has a long musical history behind it. It may be familiar to those influenced by the 70s “Jesus Movement” or those who grew up loving Christian music with a contemporary sound. Either way, this Christian music heavy weight is ready to share his journey with today’s audience.

The son of a pastor and now a pastor himself, 69-year-old Crouch shows no signs of slowing down when it comes to sharing the gospel through music.

Credited as one of the pioneers of Contemporary Christian Music (CCM), which arose from the Jesus Music Movement that was birth out of the Jesus Movement, Crouch has been helping to change hearts for over 45 years.

Continuing his ministry, Crouch has released his 10th solo album entitle Journey, a perfect Christmas gift for any music lover, that carries a clear message.

“The message is that I was reminding myself and informing others of the fact that God has always been good to me. No matter what you're going through, God is always with us. Life is a journey,” Crouch told BREATHEcast.

Throughout Crouch's “journey” he has influenced many artist, secular and Christian alike, such as Elvis Presley who recorded renditions of Crouch’s music.

Not only has he had an impact on artists but the artistry of Christian music, helping to revolutionise the urban gospel sound.

Many fans and artists have flocked to Crouch’s music because of its unique blend.

With a sound that involves elements of tradition of Black gospel, including blues and jazz, Crouch was also one of the first to blend a R&B sound with gospel music, attracting people who would not usually listen to Christian music.

With such an uncommon sound, many have wondered over the years who influenced him.

“I was not influenced by any artists. I was influenced by the people in the church and how they were dedicated to God with their gifts. The way they lived their lives and how they applied what was preached to them, has influenced me.”

Recording his first album in 1969 along with his group The Disciples on Light Records, the recording process has changed considerably and so has his experience recording albums.

“This album was not a struggle like when I first started. The way my life has evolved I am still learning to express myself.”

Expressing himself through music has been something that his fans have come to cherish. Recording songs that are sung in churches all over the world such as “Jesus Is the Answer,” “The Blood Will Never Lose Its Powers,” and “Through It All” have become a trademark of his work.

With this album, the unmistakeable sound of Andrae´ Crouch with a touch of old school gospel flows seamlessly throughout this musical masterpiece. Its evident that age has not affected his ear for music nor his source for inspiration.

“The inspiration is having the means to express and recall what He has done in my life. I can express it to others. It is like the ocean waves – they come in and they go out.”

With no shortage of inspiration, Crouch has no plan for retirement.

“I am planning to do another album. This is what I do. I enjoy doing it and as long as God gives me strength, wisdom, desire and energy, I will continue to express what is in my heart.”

With this type of heart, it's no surprise favourite scripture is Ecclesiastes 12:1: "Remember now thy creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them. ”

Crouch’s newest album Journey is available now and will be an enjoyable listen for all Christian music fans.