Christian music are up sharply this year Christian Music

Christian music are up sharply this year

July 17, 2006 – 11:51 am

Overall music sales are down, but sales of Christian music are up sharply this year, according to Nielsen SoundScan and the Gospel Music Association.

GMA president John Styll says sales of gospel music albums in the first half of 2006 are up more than 11 percent from the same period a year ago.

Styll says gospel music is defined as any music that conveys the gospel message, so it comes in a variety of styles.

This year’s best-selling gospel album is “Precious Memories” by country music star Alan Jackson.

Other top sellers include “Hero” by Kirk Franklin, Flyleaf’s self-titled album, “Testify” by POD, Casting Crown’s “Lifesong” and the Chronicles of Narnia soundtrack