Chart Rewind: Petra's "Beyond Belief" Stays at #1 in August 1990

In August 1990, Christian rock pioneers Petra made history when their landmark album Beyond Belief rose to the top of the Billboard Top Contemporary Christian Albums chart, cementing the band's reputation as one of the most influential forces in faith-based music.

Released on June 20, 1990 via DaySpring/Word Records, Beyond Belief delivered Petra's signature arena-rock sound with a spiritual boldness that resonated across churches, youth groups, and mainstream Christian radio. Produced by John and Dino Elefante, the project showcased lead singer John Schlitt's soaring vocals, Bob Hartman's driving guitars, and the band's polished musicianship.

The album quickly became a commercial and critical triumph:

• #1 on Billboard's Contemporary Christian Albums chart, dominating through August and becoming the best-performing Christian album of 1990.

• Grammy Award Winner (1991) for Best Rock/Contemporary Gospel Album - Petra's first Grammy win after years of nominations.

• Three Dove Awards, including Rock Album of the Year and Rock Recorded Song of the Year for the title track.

• Certified Gold by the RIAA in 1995, marking one of Petra's most enduring commercial successes.

Fan-favorite singles such as "Love" and "Beyond Belief" became staples on Christian radio, with "Love" recognized as one of the most-played songs of 1991. To complement the album's release, Petra broke new ground with a 50-minute short film also titled Beyond Belief, featuring music videos woven into a dramatic storyline - a creative leap rarely seen in Christian music at the time.

Petra's Beyond Belief not only dominated charts but also shaped the soundscape of Christian rock for decades to come, inspiring countless bands and worship leaders. Its fusion of bold faith, anthemic rock, and innovative storytelling remains a defining moment in contemporary Christian music history.

Tracklist - Beyond Belief (1990)

1. Armed and Dangerous

2. I Am on the Rock

3. Creed

4. Beyond Belief

5. Love

6. Underground

7. Seen and Not Heard

8. Last Daze

9. What's in a Name

10. Prayer

 

 

 

 

Tags : Chart Rewind petra "Beyond Belief"