Perry Martins
Gospel and Christian songs are biblicaly referred to as hymns and spiritual songs. They play a major role in our Fellowship with God. Over the years certain gospel songs have stood out as all time classics. successfully transiting from one generation to another. In no particular order, this is our top 10 best selling gospel songs of all time.
Ten gospel songs of all time
1. We Fall Down by Donnie McClurkin.
Written by Kyle Mathews and made popular by Donnie, this song is a powerful song that immediately resonated with a lot of people both Christians and non Christians. It met with international acclaim, made the Top 40 of Billboard’s R&B chart and rocketed past platinum sales of over one million copies sold instantly making Donnie among gospel’s best selling artists. The song was released in 2000.
2. The Heart of Worship by Michael W. Smith.
This song has been acclaimed as one of the most moving songs of worship in the history of gospel music. The down to earth lyrics and beautiful melody helps open your heart and shows what the true meaning of worship is. A hit since its release in the 80’s, this song continues to top charts and live in the hearts of fans everywhere.
3. Not Ashamed by The Newsboys. (great gospel songs)
This native Australian born band took the contemporary Christian music seen by storm earning awards in both mainstream and Christian contests. Although they have changed members through the years, they are still a relevant and acclaimed member of the Christian gospel music community.
4. Jesus Freak by DCTalk.
This song was released in 1995 and found airtime on both Christian and secular radio stations. The lyrics speak of standing up for your religious beliefs amid persecution and have stood as an anthem amongst true believers for years to follow. By appealing to both genres of musical taste has risen this band above labels and made them a voice of praise for years to come.
5. Mercy Said No’ by Cece Winans.
Cece Winans is an American gospel singer, who has won numerous awards, including ten Grammy Awards and seven Stellar Awards. She has sold 12 million records worldwide. CeCe is also the best-selling female gospel artist of all time. Mercy said No was released in 2003, it was such a hit that the album sold millions of copies world wide..
6. Forever by Chris Tomlin.
Chris has been named male vocalist of the year and artist of the year several times which boosts him to the front in Gospel music sales and chart standing. This song is recognized as a forerunner in the charts for best gospel songs of all time and with poignant lyrics there is no wonder why.
7. Amazing Grace by John Newton.
This timeless classic is a must have amongst Christians for its beautiful message and heartfelt symbolism. This song is used to soothe babies to sleep and celebrate the lives of those close that have passed through the gates of glory. John Newton’s arrangement of this inspirational hymn remains one of the best selling versions through the years.
8. Stomp by Kirk Franklin.
This song was a revolutionary music in its days, a perfect crossover music released in 1997. “Stomp”, featuring Cheryl “Salt” James (of Salt-N-Pepa), was a big hit, enjoying heavy rotation on MTV and other music channels, and charting at No. 1 on the R&B Singles Airplay chart for two weeks, even making it into the Top 40. God’s Property from Kirk Franklin’s Nu Nation was No. 1 on the R&B Albums chart for five weeks, No. 3 on the Pop charts, and would go on to be certified 3x platinum. It also brought Franklin another Grammy for Best Contemporary Soul Gospel Album, as well as three Grammy nominations.
9. Shackles by MaryMary.
This song was released in 1999 and was included in their debut album, Thankful (2000) which was certified Platinum. As at the time of its release, Shackles was a redefinition of gospel music and was an instant hit and the album recorded millions of sales worldwide because of that song.
10. This is My Desire by Hillsong Music.
Another breakout Australian band, their sound resonates through the hearts of their fan base worldwide. This song was an instant hit and helped raise them to the status of a band to be heard and recognized. A favorite in sales and charts alike, this song set a standard for music to follow.
I will say that these gospel songs are some of the best songs ever released. There are many other songs not included here though, but these ones pretty much made the mark.
