Steven Curtis Chapman Biography
Who is Steven Curtis Chapman?
Steven Curtis Chapman (born November 21, 1962) is an American contemporary Christian music singer, songwriter, record producer, actor, author, and social activist. "I know this is not anything like you thought the story of your life was gonna be...but there's so much of the story that's still yet to unfold." Few people know the pain and promise in that statement better than Chapman. The past few years have been challenging, yet they have taught him valuable lessons that continue to shape his music and inspire his listeners.
His thoughtful lyrics and faith-filled messages have earned him recognition as the most awarded artist in Christian music. Chapman has received 60 Gospel Music Association Dove Awards, five GRAMMY® Awards, 50 No. 1 singles, and sold more than 17 million albums, with ten RIAA-Certified® Gold or Platinum albums to his credit. Musically, he continues to experiment while staying true to his signature sound, approaching each project both excited and humbled by the possibilities.
"I'm very, very grateful to be given the opportunity to make music and share the things that I feel like God has entrusted to me," Chapman says. "I don't take it lightly. I pray: 'God, I want to know You and I want to make You known.' God has continued faithfully to reveal Himself through dark places and His mysteriousness. I get the sense that He's telling an amazing story. He's fully confident of His plans and He's in control. That's something I've held onto."
Chapman's 18th album, The Glorious Unfolding, was his first studio project of all-original material in seven years. He felt it was time to share steadfast messages of faith while blending his trademark sound with fresh creativity. "I really wanted to make something honest and true, yet very fresh and relevant," he explains. "I felt this had to be more exciting and energetic. I was ready to crank it up. I hope listeners can feel the excitement and joy in this record."
The lead single, "Love Take Me Over," is an upbeat anthem. "Even though it's a fun, sing-along song, it carries a message I am still learning," Chapman says. "I need to be filled with love so I can respond lovingly. I realize I am loved fully and completely, not as I should be, but as I am. That awareness drives me to live a life of love for others. We love because He first loved us."
Another standout track is "Together," written for his wife Mary Beth. The song reflects their enduring marriage and the challenges they faced in the years following the death of their youngest daughter, Maria Sue, in May 2008. Chapman delayed playing the song for Mary Beth until it was completely finished. "We held hands and wept together through this celebration of God's faithfulness. I hope it encourages people deeply."
The album also includes "Only One and Only You," written for his 14 year old daughter Shaohannah. "She's at that wonderful, challenging age," Chapman said. "I'm proud of her and wanted to tell her how amazing she is." Other highlights include "Something Beautiful," about God turning broken things into something good, and "Take Another Step," a declaration of faith in uncertain times.
Whether encouraging family or inviting fans to sing along, Chapman's music continues to make a difference. The Glorious Unfolding is musically inventive while bursting with truth, integrity, and emotional depth, reminiscent of his 1992 album The Great Adventure.
This was his second release with Provident Music Group since 2012. His label debut, JOY, featured holiday classics alongside original tunes. On The Glorious Unfolding, Chapman and co-producer Brent Milligan explored new textures and techniques. Recorded at Chapman's home studio, his son Will Franklin played drums on six tracks, with collaborators including Stu G (Delirious?) and fiddler Andy Leftwich, plus family members on background vocals.
Chapman calls the album a labor of love. "The theme was that God has already completed the story and knows the ending," he says. "Part of the mystery is how He reveals it in our lives. This album allowed me to celebrate loss, hope, and new life. I hope listeners hear God's voice whispering: 'I know the plans I have for you. Will you trust me through the hard and good seasons? The story is good. Will you trust me and watch it unfold?'"
From 2014 to 2015, Chapman revitalized the concert series Sam's Place: Music for the Spirit at the Ryman Auditorium, featuring artists such as MercyMe, Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith, and Third Day. In 2015, he released "Warrior" for the War Room soundtrack, and "Amen" was sent to Christian AC radio. In 2019, he released Deeper Roots: Where the Bluegrass Grows, a sequel to his #1 album Deep Roots.
Chapman's faith and creativity remain central to his music, as demonstrated more recently in his 2024 release Broken Dreams. Written with Hillary Scott and Nathan Chapman, the song reflects how God brings life and purpose to broken places. Chapman shares, "I hope this song reminds people that beauty and wonder exist when God breathes life and purpose into our lives and stories."
In 2025, Chapman released two additional singles: Forever the Love of My Life in February and Speed of Love on May 2. These songs highlight his ongoing faith-filled songwriting and his ability to inspire and encourage listeners through meaningful, uplifting music.