1972 · Birth of a Legend
A band named Rock
Guitarist Bob Hartman forms Petra in Fort Wayne, Indiana. The name means "rock" in Greek: the message of Christ, in the language young people understood.
Source: The History of Petra
Band & history
Petra means rock.
Formed in 1972 in Fort Wayne, Indiana, by guitarist Bob Hartman. The name means “rock” in Greek, a sign of their desire to bring the message of Christ through rock music.
Petra live
Legacy & influence.
Petra paved the way for countless bands, proving that faith and rock music could coexist powerfully. Over 10 million albums sold, four Grammy Awards and numerous Dove Awards.
Their boldness in addressing social issues, commitment to spreading the Gospel and musical innovation left an indelible mark. From youth group anthems to worship services, Petra's music continues to inspire new generations of believers.
Interactive timeline
Five decades of rock for the Rock.
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1974 · Birth of a Legend
The debut
Self-titled first album, a blend of southern rock and Christian lyrics. Mainstream Christian audiences are hesitant.
- “Walkin' in the Light”
- “Backslidin' Blues”
Source: The History of Petra
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1977 · Birth of a Legend
Come and Join Us
Greg Hough shares vocal duties with Hartman on a more polished record, still rooted in rock.
Source: The History of Petra
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1981 · Finding Their Sound
Never Say Die
Greg X. Volz takes lead vocals. His voice becomes synonymous with the Petra sound.
- “The Coloring Song”
- “For Annie”
Source: The History of Petra
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1982 · Finding Their Sound
More Power to Ya
The record that seals their reputation as Christian rock pioneers, under that futuristic spaceship cover.
- “More Power to Ya”
- “Road to Zion”
Source: The History of Petra
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1983 to 84 · Finding Their Sound
Synths, lights, sound
Not of This World and Beat the System. Cutting-edge lighting and sound make Petra one of the most sought-after live bands of the decade.
Source: The History of Petra
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1986 · A New Voice
A new voice
Volz departs for a solo career. John Schlitt, former lead vocalist of Head East, steps in. Back to the Street opens their most successful era.
Source: The History of Petra
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1987 to 88 · A New Voice
This Means War! · On Fire!
Heavier albums with hard-hitting riffs that cement Petra as Christian rock legends.
- “He Came, He Saw, He Conquered”
- “Mine Field”
Source: The History of Petra
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1989 · A New Voice
The Rock Cries Out
Petra Praise: an all-worship rock album that reaches churchgoers and rock fans alike. It goes Gold.
Source: The History of Petra
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1990 · A New Voice
Beyond Belief
Widely regarded as their magnum opus. Grammy Award for Best Rock/Contemporary Gospel Album.
- “Creed”
- “Prayer”
Source: The History of Petra
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1992 · A New Voice
Unseen Power
A more refined sound that keeps the rock edge, and critical acclaim.
- “Destiny”
- “Dance”
Source: The History of Petra
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1995 to 98 · Navigating Change
Holding the line
No Doubt, Petra Praise 2: We Need Jesus and God Fixation, while grunge and alternative rock take over the airwaves.
Source: The History of Petra
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2000 · Navigating Change
Double Take
The classics, reimagined in acoustic and orchestral versions.
Source: The History of Petra
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2003 · Navigating Change
Jekyll & Hyde
Back to a heavier, guitar-driven sound reminiscent of the 80s.
- “Jekyll & Hyde”
- “Woulda, Shoulda, Coulda”
Source: The History of Petra
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2005 · Navigating Change
Farewell
After more than three decades of ministry, Petra announces a farewell tour. The live album Farewell closes the chapter.
Source: The History of Petra
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2010 · Reunions
Classic Petra reunites
The classic lineup reunites to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Never Say Die.
Source: The History of Petra
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2020 · Reunions
Beyond Belief at 30
June 25th 2020: the 30th Anniversary reunion interview with Ron Roxtar.
Source: petraband.com
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50 years · Reunions
Golden anniversary
"Celebrating 50 Years w/ The Original Band." After 50 years it begs the question: what did "they" know that God didn't?
Source: petraband.com
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2024 · Reunions
Jekyll & Hyde, reissued
Girder Records reissues Jekyll & Hyde, remastered on CD and Vinyl, for a new generation.
Source: The History of Petra
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2026 · HOPE
HOPE
Petra's first studio album in 20 years. 10 new songs, the single Deliver Us, and #1 CCM Album.
- “Deliver Us”
Source: petraband.com
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2026 · HOPE
The HOPE Tour
From Mexico City to the Loud and Proud Festival in Wissen, Germany, to churches and halls across the US. Now booking.
Source: petraband.com
As long as there are speakers to play their music, Petra’s legacy will continue to impact hearts and lives.
Now booking
Bring the HOPE Tour to your city.
For booking, contact Scott Huie at 615-454-3635 or booking@h2oaa.com, or write to kim@petraband.com.