“The Coloring Song” by Petra has made a big impact in Christian rock and contemporary music. Dave Eden wrote it for Greg X. Volz’s old band “e”. It’s on Petra’s album Never Say Die, released in 1981. The song reached the top of Christian radio charts in multiple genres. It showed Petra was a major name in Christian music.
The song uses colors to explore Christian beliefs and ideas. Its lyrics are thoughtful and vivid, showing deep biblical themes. For many, its spiritual message is uplifting. Even years later, it’s a beloved Christian hymn.
Key Takeaways
- “The Coloring Song” was released in 1981 as part of Petra’s fourth album, Never Say Die.
- The song became Petra’s breakthrough hit, reaching the top of three Christian radio charts.
- It remains one of the most beloved songs in the Christian rock genre.
- The composition uses colors to convey significant Christian themes and messages.
- Petra has influenced numerous artists and has been a prominent force in Christian music.
- “The Coloring Song” was re-recorded for the 2000 album Double Take featuring John Schlitt.
Origins of The Coloring Song
In 1981, Petra released “The Coloring Song” on their album “Never Say Die.” It went from being little known to one of Petra’s biggest Christian hits. This song’s journey highlights Petra’s dedication and their transformation in Christian music.
The Beginnings with Greg X. Volz and the Band “e”
“The Coloring Song” was first recorded in 1976 by Greg X. Volz’s band “e.” Back then, Volz had just embraced his faith. Leaving behind his old life for a journey with Jesus. This change gave the song a powerful, genuine feel that touched many.
Transition to Petra and Its Release
A few years later, Petra added “The Coloring Song” to their “Never Say Die” album. This move was a game-changer for Christian music. It made Petra stars and breathed new life into the song, making it a Christian anthem.
The Song’s Initial Reception and Impact
Right after its release, “The Coloring Song” was a big hit. It topped three Christian radio charts: rock, adult contemporary, and inspirational. It even made it into the top five on the southern gospel chart. By 1982, it was the third top Christian song, marking its place in music history. It didn’t just grow Petra’s fan base but also showed their range, affecting Christian radio nationwide.
Lyrics Breakdown and Spiritual Significance
The song “The Coloring Song” by Petra has many spiritual symbols. Each color in the song shows important Christian ideas. We’ll explore these spiritual meanings:
Red: Symbolizing Sacrifice and Love
Red means a lot in Christian faith, showing the blood of Christ. It tells us about Jesus’ sacrifice. This deep love is shown by his willingness to die for us. The song uses biblical ideas to show how Christ’s blood offers redemption.
Blue: A Heart Cold to God’s Love
Blue is for a heart not yet touched by God’s love. It shows someone not feeling Jesus’ love yet. Blue is like coldness, suggesting a lack of spiritual warmth. The song encourages us to accept God’s love and break away from spiritual coldness.
Gold: The Promise and Warmth of God’s Love
Gold reflects God’s love’s promise and warmth. It’s about the hope Jesus brings to believers. Gold shows the promise of eternal life and God’s love. This is a reminder of the comfort and hope that comes with faith.
Brown: Life’s Cycle and God’s Plan
Brown is about life and death, showing spiritual renewal and God’s plans. It reminds us we are mortal but under God’s care. The song says this color shows life’s changing nature and God’s eternal plans. It tells us of God’s ever-present love through life’s cycles.
The song analysis ties these colors to deep spiritual messages. It shows how gospel changes lives.
Key Members Involved in The Song’s Creation
Petra, a known name in Christian rock, got major inputs from its band members and famous Christian music artists. “The Coloring Song” came to life thanks to varied talents in songwriting and music production. It became a masterpiece loved by many.
Dave Eden: The Songwriter
Dave Eden was the brain behind “The Coloring Song,” creating its lyrics and tune. He aimed to merge deep theological themes with easy-to-understand songwriting. His work combined poetic words and spiritual messages, making it a key addition to Petra’s music.
Petra’s Band Members and Their Contributions
The Petra band members were critical in bringing “The Coloring Song” to life. Important members included:
- Greg X. Volz – lead vocals
- Bob Hartman – guitar
- Mark Kelly – bass guitar
- John Slick – keyboards
- Keith Edwards – studio drummer
This song was made in a key time for Petra. It showed their teamwork in music production. Each member added their special skill to the song. It became important in Christian worship.
Overall, Petra’s unique style in songwriting and music production, along with its members’ skills, made “The Coloring Song” a memorable and touching piece in Christian music artists.
The Cultural and Religious Impact of The Coloring Song
“The Coloring Song” by Petra has deeply touched audiences beyond its melody. The band combined soft rock with deep spiritual messages. This mix changed how we think about worship music.
Influence on Christian Music and Other Artists
Petra’s impact on Christian rock can’t be ignored. Their hit, “The Coloring Song,” opened doors for new sounds in a mostly traditional scene. Its Christian hymns influence connected with many. Petra inspired musicians to blend faith with contemporary styles.
Greg X. Volz and Bob Hartman greatly influenced Petra’s music. Their legacy is seen in the work of many Christian bands today.
Role in Christian Worship and Gatherings
This song became essential in religious gatherings and worship times. It helped people reflect and connect spiritually. Petra’s music stood out for its rich theology and artistic quality.
Its meaningful lyrics and soft tune showed how worship music could grow. It especially touched people during Sunday services and youth events. Petra showed that modern Christian rock could keep its spiritual core.
In summary, Petra’s fresh approach and “The Coloring Song” significantly shaped Christian music. Their work encouraged new worship styles and motivated artists worldwide.
Petra’s Evolution and The Role of The Coloring Song
Petra’s journey in Christian rock is a tale of growth and change. They started with a soft rock vibe, similar to The Eagles and Lynyrd Skynyrd. Over time, they matched the styles of bands like Foreigner, Styx, and Journey. The release of “The Coloring Song” was critical in defining Petra’s role in Christian rock’s evolution.
Transition from Soft Rock to a More Energetic Sound
In their early days, Petra played soft rock that their fans loved. But as music changed, so did Petra. “The Coloring Song” was a key step, mixing their soft rock past with a new hard rock flavor. This change helped Petra keep up with the latest trends and grow their influence in Christian rock.
Impact on the Band’s Popularity and Subsequent Success
Petra’s energetic music brought them more fans. “The Coloring Song” led to huge success, hitting top spots on CCM’s charts in 1981. This success sparked massive tours, including a 285-day one after “More Power To Ya” came out in 1982. Petra’s ability to evolve kept them successful over the years.
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1982 | “More Power To Ya” album release and extensive tour |
| 1990 | First group to hold five simultaneous #1 positions on CCM’s radio and retail charts |
| 1991-1993 | Received Grammy Awards and numerous Dove Awards |
From their early albums to later hits like “Beyond Belief” and “Unseen Power,” Petra’s story shows their leadership in Christian rock. They not only adapted over time but also pioneered new paths. Their music and ongoing relevance have secured Petra’s place in Christian rock history.
The Coloring Song by Petra: Live Performances and Versions
“The Coloring Song” by Petra has been vital in their live shows. This iconic track stands out in Petra concerts, featured in “The Mellow Medley” in 1986 on Captured in Time and Space and the 2005 Petra Farewell tour. It shows Petra’s talent in giving fans different versions, making it a beloved song.
Prominent Live Performances and Medleys
For years, “The Coloring Song” has been crucial at Petra’s live events, touching the hearts of many. Its beautiful arrangement wins over the crowd every time. It’s a testament to Petra’s skill and their dedication to sharing their faith. It was a key part of “The Mellow Medley” on their 1986 album and the Petra Farewell concerts in 2005.
Remakes and Covers by Various Artists
Many artists have made their own versions of “The Coloring Song”. Its message has reached kids and adults alike, appearing on albums like Great Worship Songs for Kids and Never Say Dinosaur from 1996. These versions, through music or even dance, highlight the song’s lasting impact and wide appeal.
This variety shows how “The Coloring Song” continues to inspire across different music styles. Whether at a Petra concert or in studio remakes, its spiritual message shines through.
| Album | Included Track | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Captured in Time and Space | “The Mellow Medley” | 1986 |
| Petra Farewell | “The Coloring Song” | 2005 |
| Never Say Dinosaur | “The Coloring Song” | 1996 |
| Great Worship Songs for Kids | “The Coloring Song” | Various |
Petra fans can find many recordings online, priced from $1.29 to $12.99. These tracks, including favorites like “The Coloring Song,” show Petra’s lasting mark on rock and Christian music.
To learn more about Petra and their music, you can find info here.
Personal Testimonies and Anecdotes
“The Coloring Song” has made a huge impact on many. It has been a source of hope and a push for spiritual growth. Fans from everywhere have talked about how it has touched their Christian faith. These stories show the song’s power to share deep truths with simple, strong words.
The song reaches people no matter where they are in their faith. For new and long-time Christians, it brings clarity and comfort. It shares messages of love and sacrifice. This has made the song a key part of Christian music.
The song also marked a time where Petra’s music shone. Their sound was a big part of Christian rock. They blended spiritual messages into their music, adding to the song’s impact. Petra’s 1987 album “This Means War!” added to their legacy. It shared more about faith and victory. Learn more about Petra’s journey and their album’s impact here.
