Maranatha Music

Founding and Purpose: Maranatha Music is a Christian music label and publishing company known for producing worship music and albums primarily geared towards evangelical Christian audiences. Founded in 1971 by Chuck Smith, pastor of Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa, Maranatha Music aimed to provide churches and individuals with contemporary worship songs and resources that reflected the growing "Jesus Movement" of the 1970s.

Pioneering Contemporary Worship Music: Maranatha Music played a pivotal role in popularizing contemporary worship music within the evangelical Christian community. During the 1970s and 1980s, the label released numerous albums featuring original worship songs written by emerging Christian artists and songwriters. These songs often incorporated modern musical styles such as folk, rock, and pop, making them accessible to younger generations of believers.

Impact and Influence: Maranatha Music's influence on contemporary Christian worship cannot be overstated. Many of the songs and hymns released by the label have become staples in churches worldwide, sung by congregations of various denominations. Classics like "As the Deer", "He Has Made Me Glad (I Will Enter His Gates)", and "Open Our Eyes, Lord" are just a few examples of Maranatha Music's enduring contributions to worship music repertoire.

Expanding Reach and Discography: Over the years, Maranatha Music has expanded its reach beyond albums to include songbooks, sheet music, and multimedia resources for worship leaders and church musicians. The label continues to release new albums featuring contemporary worship songs, as well as compilations of classic hymns and praise choruses. Maranatha Music's vast discography encompasses a wide range of musical styles and expressions of faith, catering to diverse worship preferences and traditions.

Legacy and Enduring Impact: As one of the pioneering forces in contemporary Christian music, Maranatha Music's legacy endures as a testament to the power of worship through song. Its songs have provided a soundtrack for countless worship services, Bible studies, and personal devotions, shaping the spiritual lives of generations of believers. The label's commitment to excellence in music and ministry continues to inspire artists and worship leaders to create authentic and meaningful expressions of praise and adoration.