As a longtime fan of 90s Christian music, I couldn’t have been more excited to sit down with Andy Chrisman from 4Him, one of the most iconic groups in CCM history. Our conversation took us through the early days of 4Him, the stories behind their biggest hits, and Andy’s journey in ministry today. Here are the highlights of our chat.

If you grew up on 90s Contemporary Christian Music (CCM), you know the songs, the artists, and the unforgettable moments that shaped a generation. Recently, I asked our community at Mixtape Theology to tell us why they love 90s CCM—without actually saying it. The responses rolled in, and they were a perfect mix of nostalgia, humor, and heartfelt memories. Here are some of the best ones!

Did you ever fear of getting “LEFT BEHIND?”

Yes, as you see from the title of this blog, we are traveling down a dark desert highway. On this journey, you may or may not feel the cool wind in your hair. It all depends on your perception of the Eagle’s classic, “Hotel California.” And to be completely candid, I used to be fearful of this song. But now I have heard the mission bell and believe it to be genius. We all agree the song is iconic, yet I have recently discovered that the songwriting is masterful.

Recently I was perusing Spotify and listening to various songs that took me back. You know, back to the good ole days! It still blows my mind to think that 30 years before 1994 was 1964! In 1994, 1964 sounded so ancient. Serenity now!

One thing that we hang our hats on at Mixtape Theology is the idea of how we saw things 30 years ago and how we see them now. Meanings of songs evolve as we grow in our faith and theology. Reflecting on TobyMac’s most recent album holds so much meaning that might have been lost if it were released 30 years ago.

Hippie rocker turned Christian rock pioneer Larry Norman famously sang, “Why should the devil have all the good music?” The answer is, he shouldn’t, and he doesn’t! As I continue to reflect on The Jesus Music, a documentary on the roots, rise, and impact of CCM, my brain hasn’t shut down.

If you were raised in church “back in the day,” chances are you grew up singing the old hymn Count Your Blessings. Do you recall the repetitive line in the chorus? “Count your blessings, name them one by one. Count your blessings, see what God has done!”

Our calendars tell us it is about that time; a new year, and a new you! Right? Yes, it is the time in which we all start making some changes. The morning talk shows and social media platforms will be overflowing with ideas to help you lose weight, be more organized and balanced, and better yourself. Get that gym membership and go longer than the first couple of weeks in January!

Ok, let's be honest right from the get-go. 2020 has not been on many people's Top 10 list of favorite years. We can divulge into all the reasons it has been challenging, from COVID, canceled sports and concerts, quarantines, masks, and no toilet paper. I would be remiss not to mention murder hornets! Serenity now!

If you grew up in the 90’s and were involved in a church youth ministry, you might recognize the proper dialogue used in this classic trust fall activity. Not that trust falls find their home solely in the 90’s. Youth group cronies plummeted backwards blindly into their peers extended arms long before I was a teen, and I’m sure many still take the Nestea trust plunge, minus the Swatches and WWJD bracelets.

Like the rest of the world, I have been a keen observer in Kanye West’s latest proclamation of faith, particularly as he released his first Christian Album, Jesus is King. His music has never been my cup of tea, but with newfound faith, he has my attention. Many are singing his praises, while others are taking the “wait and see” approach.