Nostalgic Classics Provide Familiarity
Across the country, worship leaders are finding that so-called “evergreen” tracks with proven longevity can provide a port in the storm of endless new releases. With over 1 million Christian and gospel songs emerging every year, many pastors are retreating to the security of tried-and-true favorites that continue resonating with their flocks.
“These songs hold a special place for folks of my generation,” said Ian Stewart, a worship leader in Colorado. “When the music fades, and all is stripped away, these lyrics and melodies remain embedded in our hearts.”
Music Companies Capitalize on Nostalgia
Industry trends reveal worship leaders are not alone in their affinity for nostalgic songs. As music companies invest heavily in back catalogs, they actively market re-recordings and mashups of once-ubiquitous contemporary Christian hits on social media. Their profit motives align with worship leaders longing for familiarity.
Labels Focus on Back Catalogs, Not New Artists
“Record companies and publishers are going to put more focus on their catalogs,” said Chris Lawson Jones, cofounder of Wings Music Group, an independent music distribution company. “They are finding it harder to develop new worship music.”
Jones explains that major labels like Capitol Christian Music Group are investing heavily in acquiring rights to back catalogs from decades past, which they can repackage and market to capitalize on nostalgia. This comes as getting a traditional record deal is less enticing for up-and-coming artists.
“The days of a label discovering and sweeping up an unknown artist are gone, and up-and-coming artists are okay with that,” said Jones. “Artists are usually faced with a binary choice: complete independence or a massive corporate label. I rarely speak to artists who want a record deal.”
Jones knows first-hand, having previously been the head of A&R for Integrity Music UK. He realized that by retaining rights and foregoing traditional label deals, artists could find more flexibility and long-term revenue potential.
This aligns with a broader industry shake-up, where established artists are realizing their back catalogs are more valuable than ever. As major labels focus more on maximizing profits from tried-and-true hits of yesteryear, they have less incentive to take risks on developing new voices.
Classics Facilitate Genuine Worship
Experts say evergreen tracks provide a unifying force for worshippers. Their widespread recognition allows people to engage freely, focusing on their personal connection with God. This contrasts newer releases that can feel disjointed or unfamiliar.
“By leading with classics, pastors can facilitate authentic worship while accessing nostalgic memories,” said Elias Dummer, a marketer and former worship leader.
Evergreen Songs Stand Test of Time
As the industry churns out more music than ever before, yesterday’s hits are providing spiritual nourishment and a reminder of God’s unwavering presence across generations. Worship leaders say that returning to evergreen favorites allows them to build services that resonate in fresh ways, year after year.
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