Sanctus Real Biography
Who is Sanctus Real?
Sanctus Real is an American Christian rock band formed in Toledo, Ohio in 1996 and known for their straight-ahead rock and distinctive vocals.
The founding lineup began with guitarist Chris Rohman and vocalist/guitarist Matt Hammitt meeting as tenth-graders at Toledo Christian School, where they led youth worship and began writing songs. They were soon joined by drummer Mark Graalman and bassist Matt Kollar, and played their first show in December 1996 in a warehouse back-of-a-building setting.
After several independent releases, including "All This Talk of Aliens" (1998), "Message for the Masses" (1999), and "Nothing to Lose" (2000), the band signed with Sparrow Records in 2002 and issued their major-label debut "Say It Loud".
Sanctus Real developed a style rooted in rock and alternative Christian pop-rock, with guitar-driven arrangements and honest, faith-inspired lyrics. The band's sound has been described as “melodic power rock” in the tradition of Foo Fighters and Switchfoot. Notable albums include "Fight the Tide" (2004), which earned a GMA Dove Award for Rock/Contemporary Album of the Year. Their 2006 album "The Face of Love" included the lead single "I'm Not Alright," which reached No. 1 on Christian CHR radio, and the 2008 release "We Need Each Other" debuted on the Billboard 200 and received a Grammy nomination for Best Rock or Rap Gospel Album.
The band is best known for a collection of chart-topping singles including "Lead Me", "Forgiven", "Whatever You're Doing", "I'm Not Alright", "We Need Each Other", "Everything About You", and "The Fight Song". "Don't Give Up" also achieved No. 1 status on Christian Rock radio. Earlier in their career, they were recognized for a cover of U2's "Beautiful Day" featured on the 2004 charity compilation "In the Name of Love", which also reached No. 1 on Christian Rock radio.
In March 2010 the album "Pieces of a Real Heart" was released, which the band titled following an online fan vote. In 2016 the band underwent a significant transition when original lead singer Matt Hammitt departed, and worship leader Dustin Lolli joined as lead vocalist. In April 2024 they released their tenth studio album, "All Along", continuing to reflect themes of enduring faith and God's faithfulness.
Throughout their ministry, Sanctus Real has sought to use their platform to point listeners to Christ, encouraging communities of faith and underscoring Christian unity as expressed especially in albums like "We Need Each Other".