Honorable Mention — HM2: Larnelle Harris — I Can Begin Again (1989)
Orchestral gospel excellence—soaring vocals, inspirational anthems, and messages of restoration and new beginnings.
Intro
As an Honorable Mention in The 100 Greatest Albums in Christian Music, I Can Begin Again (1989) stands as a beloved and influential recording. Its blend of artistry, conviction, and emotional power has left a lasting legacy in Christian music history.
The Album in Context
This album arrived at a pivotal moment—both culturally and creatively. Artists within CCM were expanding their musical vocabulary, embracing new production techniques, and addressing deeper thematic content. This record represents the very best of that evolution, balancing musical craft with spiritual resonance.
Within the CCM ecosystem, it helped broaden expectations for what Christian music could accomplish—artistically, lyrically, and culturally.
Standout Songs
- “I Can Begin Again” — A defining track that embodies the heart and sonic identity of the record.
- “Mighty Spirit” — A listener favorite whose emotional and musical depth continues to speak to audiences.
- “Friends in High Places” — A cornerstone song often cited as essential to the album’s enduring impact.
Why It Matters
Artistically, this album stands as a touchstone—rich in musicality, emotional honesty, and thematic depth. It has inspired countless artists, worship leaders, and Christian creatives through its excellence and authenticity.
Historically, it marks a key moment in Christian music, expanding its cultural relevance and elevating its artistic credibility. Its influence stretches across generations of listeners and creators.
What’s Next
This concludes the official countdown of The 100 Greatest Albums in Christian Music. Thank you for journeying through these landmark recordings. Be sure to listen to the companion podcast episode on The CCM Professor with Greg Rice for final reflections and behind-the-scenes insights.
Soli Deo Gloria!
This post is part of the series The 100 Greatest Albums in Christian Music, celebrating the artists and recordings that defined a generation of faith-filled creativity.
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Album Details
| Artist: | Larnelle Harris |
| Album: | I Can Begin Again |
| Year Released: | 1989 |
| Record Label(s): | Benson |
| Producer(s): | Greg Nelson |
Previous Post in the series:
HM3: Phillips, Craig & Dean — Lifeline (1994)
Next in the series:
HM1: Charles Billingsley — Marks of the Mission (2000)
Listen to “I Can Begin Again” on Spotify
You can listen below or click here to purchase the entire album.
Larnelle Harris: I Can Begin Again is available for purchase on Amazon.
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