Chris Renzema Biography
Who is Chris Renzema?
Chris Renzema, born Christopher David Renzema (pronounced /ˈrɛnzima/ or [REN-zē-ma]), is a Christian singer-songwriter and performer from Nashville, TN. Originally from Grand Rapids, Michigan, Renzema blends indie rock, folk, and contemporary Christian music, with songs marked by honesty, Scripture-rooted themes, and reflective lyricism.
After teaching himself guitar and songwriting in high school, Renzema recorded his first EP, "Age To Age," in 2014 under the name Chris Renzema & Moriah Hazeltine. His early work gained national attention when "You're the Only One" was featured in Worship Leader magazine. He followed that release with his independently released debut album, "I'll Be The Branches," in 2018, a project shaped by seasons of doubt, perseverance, and reliance on God.
Reflecting on that album, Renzema said, "The title comes from the lyric 'I'll be the branches if You'll be the root,' from John 15. We can't do anything if we're not connected to the vine. I learned that the hard way. The songs are about dependence and desire, and about the faithfulness of God when we're not willing to be dependent on Him."
In December 2018, Renzema signed with Centricity Music. He released "Let the Ground Rest" in 2020, followed by "Get Out of the Way of Your Own Heart" in 2021. The latter earned a GMA Dove Award nomination for Rock/Contemporary Album of the Year, one of several Dove Award recognitions he has received during his career. His 2023 release "Manna, Pt. 1" was followed by the full-length album "Manna" in March 2024, which included songs from the earlier project.
In 2025, Renzema released the single "Come Back To Me (Father's Song)" and was featured on "John The Baptist," a collaboration with Michael Monroe. That same year, he released his full-length Christmas album "Every December" through Centricity Music.
Known for his calm presence and thoughtful songwriting, Chris Renzema continues to create music that feels like unfiltered prayer, giving voice to dependence, hope, and the steady faithfulness of God in everyday life.