Jesus Music

Thanks to AudioGalaxy and some nostalgia, I’ve been enjoying some formative music from an important period of my life. My spiritual pilgrimage began in earnest in 1982, and for better or worse, I was introduced to the evangelical subculture with which I’ve had such a complicated relationship. My musical taste around this time was clearly punk and new wave, but there was a lot of compelling music being made by Christians that fell way outside my usual genre boundaries. Luckily for me, this music broke through my snobbery and became very important to me. A lot of these recordings are out of print now, or at least hard to find on CD. Thank God for file sharing!

  • Daniel Amos are still making music today. Not the name of a person, but a group, DA were one of the most influential bands from this period. Able to span genres effortlessly (they began as a country band and became celebrated as an alternative band!), they produced three albums (The “Alarma” Chronicles) that still hold up today. Satirizing everything, these songs still move me because they are honest, humble, and always looking for truth, which makes a pretty good creed to live by. Good songs: Faces to the Window, Through the Speakers.
  • Larry Norman was one of the original “Jesus freaks” from the 60s, although he made most of his music in the 70s. Hippy music like his was still alive in the church in the 80s, along with other discredited 70s pastimes like roller-skating, but I always liked the combination of apocalypse and hope in his songs. Good songs: Six-Sixty-Six (covered recently by Frank Black), I Love You.
  • Andrae Crouch is a man who combined traditional Gospel music with funk and R&B and made it appeal to both white and black listeners. If it weren’t for Andrae, I might not be listening to Prince and Stevie Wonder today. Good songs: All the Way, Finally.

The whole “Contemporary Christian Music” thing is a bit silly to me, but despite that, these musicians were trying to do much more than just entertain Christians. Their music helps me remember who I was, who I am, and who I want to become.

99 thoughts on “Jesus Music”

  1. Trying to replace a GREAT album cassette I loaned out years ago. John and Patti Thompson, Anthem of Light. Nobody seems to have heard of them. Can anyone provide any info/help?

  2. I own the album and it does have some great music on it. For those who don’t know, Patti Thompson was the former Patti Roberts (married to Richard Roberts). She recently lived in Tulsa and sang in the choir at First Methodist Church but I haven’t seen her around in awhile.

  3. The album was called “The Hope of the Heart”, and was excellent!!! I used to have it; wish it were out on CD..

  4. thanks for at confirming that Patti Thompson was the correct name of the Hope of the Heart album I also used to own. who did I loan it too? Of course I don’t have a turntable now, but that album was such an inspiration to me when I moved to the Oregon coast away from my Iowa church family. I will keep looking. blessings of HIS extravagant love. Arla Hock Ford

  5. I have been trying (without any luck) to find a musical that I sang w/my choir in 1982. It was El Shaddai the musical- It had some of the most moving music i have ever heard. It was written/composed by john and patti thompson. I still have the cassette but would really like the written work……….. can anyone help?

  6. John and Patti’s stuff isn’t easy to find. I have a copy of Hope of the Heart but not the sheet music from El Shaddai the musical. You may find it on Ebay. Patti, by the way, lives in San Antonio and still sings. (She’s my Mom.)

  8. Hi Everyone! Thank you for the wonderful comments about our songs and our writing. It is gratifying to know that you were enriched and/or blessed. I have lived away from the lime light for so long that I didn’t realize anyone out there actually remembered the music. Makes me want to write and sing again! Patti

  9. Patti, used to watch you on O. Roberts TV shows,was always inspired by your ministry,how are you doing now? May God continue to use you. Hardy

  11. Patti, PLEASE, we MUST have “Hope of the Heart” re-recorded on CD! I recently found my tape, but tapes don’t last forever! Please help us. I have about 5 people I want to buy it for!!!
    Please answer.

  12. Hi Patti! Would LOVE to hear from you. How are Juli and Christi?? Miss you – Love, Topsy

  13. Two musicals I sang in with my church choir were El Shaddai and also Exaltation by Ron Huff. I’ve a worn out tape version of Exaltation that I keep praying makes it through one more play, and only bits and pieces of El Shaddai in my brain. I’ve searched and searched for these as they were used greatly by God in my life at that time, and for some reason He is bringing them back to my mind again. I’d love to find them somewhere.

  14. I’m reposting comments here that were posted on my old Movable Type site:

    Ginger ([email protected]):

    Patti I have the cantata book and tape of El Shaddai the Musical. The group I sang with performed it in Harrisburg, PA and Boston, MASS. It’s wonderful music and lyrics still remain in my mind and heart. I’m looking for a CD to give to various members of my family, friends and one for me to use in my car during my daily travels. Please consider issuing on CD. Thank you.

  15. I’m reposting comments here that were posted on my old Movable Type site:

    Annette Burgamy ([email protected]):

    Patti,
    I read both your books so many years ago. It was during a time when my life was falling apart and it helped me focus. Hope you are well, miss your music!!! Are you and John still together?How old are your girls? Anburgs in GA.

  16. I’m reposting comments here that were posted on my old Movable Type site:

    Julie Mize:

    Wow, you guys love my Mom! For those who ask, Juli and Christi are both well and happy. And the divine Miss Patti has 5 grandchildren; 4 produced by Christi and 1 by me. Topsy, would love to chat with you!

  17. I’m reposting comments here that were posted on my old Movable Type site:

    Trish Hermanson ([email protected]):

    I’m looking for a CD of Ronn Huff’s Exaltation: A Scripture Song Experience of Worship and Praise. Anyone know where I can get one? Thanks!

  18. I’m reposting comments here that were posted on my old Movable Type site:

    Patti Roberts:

    I will try and get something done for you guys who are looking for El Shaddai (the musical), and Hope of the Heart album.

    Patti

  19. I’m reposting comments here that were posted on my old Movable Type site:

    Steven Peacock ([email protected]):

    Patti,

    I hope you remember me!!! We first met in 72. Later we had a casual passing friendship when I was at ORU 73-77. The last time I remember speaking with you was the early 80’s soon after your record was released. The last time I remember seeing you was not long before that in Nashville at your home. You were hosting a party.We lost contact many many years ago and later I lost my way. Recently a renewed faith got me to thinking about those who that have impacted my life and faith. Although you and I were never close friends you always gave me a hug when we saw each other. Your spirit and faith through hardship and heartache always inspired me. And your music and beautiful voice has always lifted me up.

    I am very glad to hear that you are doing well. The girls are doing great it sounds like for the postings. And that you have 5 grandchildren. The Lord is truely still blessing your life.

    Hope to hear from you when you get the chance.

    Steve Peacock
    [email protected]

  20. I have just purchased an LP of Ron Huff’s Exaltation on EBay Australia! I’m so pleased to hear that there are other people out there who still listen to, love and worship with this music.

    My cassette of Exaltation is still OK but if there is a CD of Exaltation out there I would love to hear where I can get one.

    What I would really like is the Music and Lyrics Book for Exaltation so if anyone can help me with this I will be eternally grateful.

    God bless,
    Carol
    Australia

  22. Patti (or whomever),

    I was MOSES on the recording of EL SHADDAI…THE MUSICAL and we premiered the work at The Kennedy Center in D.C.
    I, too, have tried with no luck to locate the scores for a couple of people who have wanted their choirs to perform the work.
    Anybody got access to the materials?

    David Ford
    Nashville
    [email protected]

  23. I used to have both the tape and cd version of El Shaddai, the musical.

    I liked to build a big fire on the edge of my hill on Easter morning and play El Shaddai as the sun came up.

    Anyone out there have a copy, prefer CD that I could purchase?

  24. I was in one of my “whatever happened to” moods today and was curious about Patti Roberts. Back in my childhood days, I watched her many times on tv. It took an hour of intense internet searching to find anything about her. Luckily, I came across this page, although it contains very little information. Maybe Juli or her sister would consider a Wikipedia entry. She deserves an entry. She’s had an interesting life. David from Switzerland

  25. I have a copy of the music/lyrics book Exaltation, by Ronn Huff. However, I am desperately looking for a CD or even a cassette at this point.

    Thank you.

  26. Patti,
    I dont think you would remember me. I met you and John thru a friend when you and John lived in New York. My wife and I went the El Shaddai Musical at Carnegie Hall. It was amazing ! You and John did an amazing job and thanks again for the tickets it was a blessing. I wanted to get in touch with John we lost track of each other. Ispoke last to him 10 yrs ago in Nashville Can you give hime my e-mail.
    Thanks and God Bless you and your family
    Jean Picard-Ami

  27. Shalom Patti!

    If ever you know about a cd of Ronn Huff’s Exaltation, please let me know where I can find it. All Blessings,
    Richter

  28. Hello, Nancy Toledo:
    I have a cassette tape of the Ronn Huff Exaltation album and have been looking for the SATB choral book. Is this the one that you have? Maybe we could trade?

    [email protected].

  29. The El Shaddai musical was a significant element in my spiritual journey in the 1980’s. I have tried and tried to find a copy of the CD or even the cassette, but with no luck. Please let me know where I might find one, and it has been on my mind for over a year now. Thank you very much!

  30. Patti,
    How wonderful to know that you are still “around”. There are no words to describe what a blessing you were to me when you were on TV in the late 70’s and early 80’s. As a brand new christian I was so blessed by your music and album. The Lord really used your ministry to bless me. I pray you are able to go back to the desk and write a new book and produce a new CD. We fans are still out here and never, never forgot you!

    God Bless You,
    Kim

  33. Patti,
    Thoughts of you just “popped” into my mind today… and I wondered about you and what is going on in your life. I havn’t thought about you for years but I want you to know that when I was going thru a divorce in the early eighties, your music ministered to my heart in such a special way and I thought your voice was the greatest anointed voice I had ever heard! I sure hope you do produce a CD — the world needs to hear one of the greatest voices God ever gave anyone.
    Luv and blessings

  34. We lived in Saudi Arabia during the early 80’s and listened to Ronn Huff’s Exaltation: A Scripture Song Experience of Worship and Praise all the time. We had a Bible Study group and passed around all the music we managed to get into thate country and this is one that blessed a whole lot of people. I only had one copy left and it finally broke not long ago. Is there anyone who can get me a copy either cassett or CD ?? I would be forever greatful. There are alot of people who left Arabia and went back to their own country with a copy of that cassett tape and I can tell you it made a difference in their lives. Praise God that music does not know boundries. Please email me if you can help locate a copy. Thanks.

  35. Patti: Please make a CD for all of us out here that loved your music and miss hearing your wonderful voice. God Bless.

  36. Patti, I have looked all over the internet and finally found you here. I often wanted to write back in the late 70’s, early 80’s to say thank you for your faith and courage and your music. I had a tape of yours and on it was a song that was so special for me…the words had to do with the Bride of Christ. If you cannot, does anyone have the words or a copy of that tape…I don’t remember the title of the tape though. Anyway, I would so appreciate any help with that song. God Bless you Patti

  37. I have thought of Patti many times over the years. Anyone who read her first book after her divorce from Richard Roberts cannot be very surprised at the problems and things coming to light at ORU now. It certainly confirms all that she wrote about then.

  38. Patti
    Have always loved you and thought about you so many times over the years. So happy to see you are fine and a grandmother!! Wonderful! Miss your beautiful music

  39. I too have always wondered what happened to Patti. I have her album she made after her divorce from Richard Roberts. It ministered to me. I too felt the same way that in light of what is happening at ORU right now, Patti it looks like is vindicated in the eyes of the world for what she wrote, but those of us who loved her spirit and music always knew she spoke the truth. May the Lord continue to bless Patti and her kids and grandkids.

  40. Patti, sang with you at FUMC for a while before moving down to south Tulsa. Hope you are busy and happy. Charlotte

  41. Patti, Read your book yrs. ago & have often thought about you. Wow, with all that’s happening at ORU, life does have a way of vindicating! Thanks for speaking the truth and for keeping your integrety! What a lady you always were. God Bless you!

  42. Patti………….I lived on campus at ORU from 1971-1974. You were always a gracious lady. I have both your books that you wrote, and your spiritual insight has greatly blessed me. I hope you consider recording again. Many wonderful blessings to you and your family. Larry Hagan

  43. Patti,

    I love you books & singing!
    I have moved a couple of times. I must have lost them somewhere in the move.
    Where can I get your books & music at?
    God Bless & Keep You!
    Penny Dickey

  44. Well, Patti Thompson..saw you at Precept, have several of your cassettes & wish I had the CDs. Love your music, have sung it over the years. Is there anything better than Beyond Beyond? It takes me to heaven in a flash…incredible song.
    Also looking for a CD of Ronn Huff’s Exhaltation…I do have a copy of my old tape that was beginning to wear out. Really need that CD.
    Wish Ronn & Patti would record more & more.

  45. Patti,
    We had an English class together, Dr. E, and I just came across this website. Add me to the list of people who would like to get a cd if you ever put one out. Have wondered whatever happened to you so I am happy to hear that you are surrounded by family. Blessings in bunches, Donna

  46. Thanks again to all of you who have been so supportive. These are interesting times, with all that is going on at ORU. I believe in the mission of the university, but, am terrible conflicted about these current issues. So sad.

  48. Hi Patti,
    It is so good to see your comments. We are all sad over the current issues of ORU and pray that God will be glorified and truth will come forth. Our prayers are with you as we know this would be a terribly sad and conflicting time. Please be encouraged that you have never been forgotten, by us or God, and how appreciative we are of you, your walk with the Lord and your courage to stand for truth. Keep on singing! God bless you Patti.

  49. Hello Patti,

    I also remember seeing you in concert after your divorce and am happy to learn that all is well with you and your daughters.

    I do like Richard & Lindsey and trust that God will bring them through this nightmare.

    Are your daughters doing okay in light of the recent scandal concerning their father?

    God bless.

  50. Hi all,

    I agree with Kathy above, hope everything turns out okay for Richard and Lindsay.

    blessings to all.

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