Petra
The kings of Christian rock
Petra was started in 1972, and has during 33 years claimed their position as the world's leading Christian rock-band. Since their start, thay have sold more than 7 million records, released 20 albums, won 4 Grammy Awards, 10 Dove Awards and been inducted to Gospel Music Hall of Fame and Hard Rock Cafe, as the first Christian band. We're talking about a highly experienced live-band, they have played no less than 1800 concert5s! Or in average more than one concert each week since they started in 1972!!!
Petra is the Greek word for rock, in other words a fitting name. Their music has developed through the years, but they still have their own dstinctive, recognizable style. From their first album in 1972 and up to the mid-90's they developed a more reocked sound, followed by a few more calm albums in the late 90's.But in 2003 they released "Jekyll & Hyde", the heaviest, most rocked Petra album ever.
For Petra, the ministry has always remained their focus.The music is merely a way to spread the good news. "I am truly thankful for having been part of Petra," says lead singer John Schlitt. "We've had a good long run and have seen so much. We've seen God's hand at work in our music on every continent and in every language,"
Petra will release a live-CD and DVD titled "Petra Farewell" during the "Farewell Tour".The release is set to 22/11, and both Greg X Volz, singer from 1977-1986, and John Lawry, keyboard player from 1984-1994, will give their guest appearance on the recording. We hope and believe Petra bring the new record along for sale when they visit Norway for the last time.
Petra members
During the years, Petra have had different members. Nothing strange about that, not many people stay in the same job for 33 years... The current Petra setup is:
John W Schlitt - Lead singer since 1986, meaning he has participated on many of the most well-known albums. He is simply known as "The Voice of Petra". John has also released two solo albums, "Shake" and "Unfit for Swine" in 1995 and 1996. He was the lead singer in Head East, up to 1980 and was also a member of Johnny Band for a short period.
Bob Hartman - Founded Petra together with Greg Hough in 1972, and was lead guitarist to 1995. He continued as songwriter and producer, and participated on albums. He made his comeback on the stage in 2002, and has since been a touring member of Petra. By the way, Bob makes his own guitars, to get exactly the sound he wants, and he has written most of Petras songs!
Paul Simmons - Has been the drummer of Petra since 2003. He has played drums for almost 30 years, and has been a member of more or less well-known bands, such as Black Oak Arkansas in the mid-80's, and The Legendary Shack Shakers just before he joined Petra. Petra is the first Christian band he plays in, and according to himself he has never had so much fun ever.
Greg Bailey - Petras bass player since 2002. A friend told him Petra maybe needed a new bass player. so he called John, and became a member. He has played in several rock bands, Broken Tongues amongst others. He has also ade his mark on Petra as a songwriter, "Would'a, Should'a, Could'a" is actually written by Greg og Bob. He uses a very special, custom built bass guitar.
Useful links:
- www.petraband.com - Petras official website
- www.johnschlitt.net - John W Schlitts official website
- www.houseofbob.com - Bob Hartmans official website
Grammy Awards
Last updated: 23.09.2005
