By Andy Argyrakis

This week, we bring you the second of a two part series chronicling Christian music’s major moments of 2008.

SCC AND MWS TOUR TOGETHER

2008 saw the first ever tour pairing of Steven Curtis Chapman and Michael W. Smith. The two Christian music innovators took cues from secular superstars Elton John and Billy Joel, performing separate sets but also collaborating various times throughout the evening. Besides simply appearing together, the two performed a few of each other’s singles, truly making it a once in a lifetime experience.

ANBERLIN SIGNS MAJOR LABEL DEAL

After having a remarkable career on Tooth & Nail Records (blazing several artistic trails for the indie rock genre in the process), Anberlin made the leap to major label ranks. The Stephen Christian-led aggressive outfit dropped its most impressive effort to date in the form of New Surrender (Universal Republic), which actually possesses the group’s most spiritual offerings to date. No doubt the players are being a bold light to the mainstream, as further evidenced by a club tour and additional airplay on alt-rock radio.

MICHAEL SWEET JOINS BOSTON

Though he’s still a member of Stryper and a groundbreaking solo star in his own right, Michael Sweet also added another notch to his artistic belt this year by joining rock ‘n’ roll legend Boston. The classic act returned to the road to sold-out arenas from coast to coast, featuring this co-front man belting out high pitched classics like “Amanda” and “More Than a Feeling” to name a few. 

A JESUS MUSIC REUNION

The Beginnings Concert debuted to mounds of acclaim as a double CD/DVD, especially those familiar with the Jesus Music movement from the 1970s. Performers from the live spectacle also descended upon GMA Week 2008, which included appearances from legends like Dallas Holm, Don Francisco, David Meece, Donnie McGuire & Reba Rambo McGuire and Steve & Tim Archer of The Archers. Others associated with the project included Leon Patillo, Barry McGuire, Chuck Girard and Janny Grein, rounding out the impressive set list with several additional spiritual reflections from yesteryear.