I Can Only Imagine: The Journey of a Christian Music Icon
Origins and Early Years
I Can Only Imagine was founded in 1999 in Arizona by Bart Millard, Micah Canfield, and Jim Bryson. Their journey began in a small church, where they shared their passion for music and worship. Their humble beginnings laid the foundation for their subsequent rise to fame.
Breakthrough Hit and Acclaim
In 2001, the band released their self-titled debut album, which featured the smash hit "I Can Only Imagine." The song became an instant sensation, topping Christian music charts and crossing over to mainstream audiences. It earned the band a Grammy Award and catapulted them into the upper echelons of Christian music.
Challenges and Controversies
Despite their success, I Can Only Imagine faced their fair share of challenges. In 2005, founding member Jim Bryson left the band due to creative differences. The band also faced scrutiny over the inclusion of their song "Real" in a promotional video for the film "The Passion of the Christ." Some critics accused them of exploiting the film's religious themes for commercial gain.
Discography
Over the course of their career, I Can Only Imagine has released seven studio albums and two live albums. Their discography includes:
* I Can Only Imagine (2001) * Found (2003) * Slow Down (2005) * Awake (2006) * Stand (2008) * City on Fire (2010) * The Spirit of Christmas (2011) * Roots (2016) * Living Hope (2018)
Members
The current lineup of I Can Only Imagine consists of:
I Can Only Imagine has left an enduring legacy in Christian music. Their songs have inspired countless believers, bringing hope and comfort to audiences worldwide. The band's success has also paved the way for other Christian artists to break into mainstream music. Their impact continues to resonate in the hearts and minds of fans around the globe.