The 100 Greatest Albums in Christian Music — #99: Carman, The Champion (1986)

Intro

As our countdown of The 100 Greatest Albums in Christian Music continues, we arrive at album #99 — Carman’s The Champion (1986). Few artists in CCM history were as bold, dramatic, and larger-than-life as Carman. With this project, he delivered a blend of spoken word, music, and storytelling that electrified stadium audiences and became one of the most talked-about albums of the 1980s.

The Album in Context

By the mid-1980s, Carman Licciardello had already established himself as a rising voice in Christian music. But The Champion propelled him into another stratosphere. His unique mix of pop, gospel, and theatrical narration was unlike anything else in the genre. He wasn’t afraid to stage cosmic battles between good and evil, dramatize spiritual warfare, or use pop-culture imagery to bring biblical truths to life.

The title track, “The Champion,” portrayed the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus as a heavyweight boxing match, complete with crowd noise and dramatic announcer commentary. It became one of the most iconic CCM songs of the era — simultaneously controversial and unforgettable.

Standout Songs

• “The Champion” — The centerpiece track, combining narration, music, and drama in a way that only Carman could.
• “Prepare to Die” — A driving anthem of spiritual battle.
• “Revive Us, O Lord” — A heartfelt call for renewal that balanced Carman’s theatrical side with sincere worship.

Why It Matters

The Champion demonstrated that CCM could be more than just music — it could encompass theater, drama, and mass evangelism all in one. Carman’s concerts often filled arenas, and this album gave him the material that connected with huge crowds. Though his style was sometimes polarizing, there’s no denying his influence in expanding the reach and scope of Christian music during the 1980s.

What’s Next

This is the second step in our journey through The 100 Greatest Albums in Christian Music. Be sure to listen to the companion episode of the CCM Professor with Greg Rice Podcast for reflections on The Champion and the other first seven albums in the countdown.

Tomorrow’s blog post will feature #98 — Petra’s More Power To Ya (1982), a milestone release that cemented Petra as the flagship band of Christian rock.

Soli Deo Gloria!