The Untold History of CCM
The Untold History of CCM traces contemporary Christian music from the Protestant Reformation through the Jesus Movement, the rise of the Christian music industry, and today’s modern worship machine.
This isn’t just music history.
It’s the story of how ministry, art, commerce, celebrity, and the church became intertwined, and how the decisions made along the way still shape the Christian music we hear today.
Start with Episode One. You may end up watching the entire series.
[WATCH EPISODE ONE]
Created by musician and filmmaker Jonathan Allen Wright, this ten-part documentary series is thoroughly researched, compellingly told, and likely to change the way you think about Christian music.
SOLUTIONS & RESOURCES
Resources highlighted by Jonathan Allen Wright in the final episode:
SongStage — Tools for independent artists to release and promote their music. Use code JAW for the free Pro tier.
SongStage.app
Indie Playlist — Discover and support independent Christian music.
Spotify playlist
Near Kingdom Records — Independent Christian music and artist support.
Near Kingdom Records
Church Apps & Worship Commons — Resources for church-centered music, worship, and creative work.
ChurchApps.org • Worship Commons link
Sower released an EP in 2025 called “Contemporary Christian Machine,” which deals with the very same content.
