Keith Green was a talented singer, songwriter, and musician who was a pioneer in the contemporary Christian music genre. He was known for his passionate and uncompromising lyrics that challenged believers to follow Jesus wholeheartedly. He died in a tragic plane crash on July 28, 1982, along with his two young children and nine other people. He was only 28 years old. This article will explore the details of his life, his music, and his death.
Early Life and Career
Green was born in Brooklyn, New York, on October 21, 1953. He showed musical talent from a very young age, playing various instruments and writing songs. He appeared in TV commercials, shows, and theater productions as a child actor. He signed a five-year recording contract with Decca Records when he was 11, and became the youngest person ever to join the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP) .
Green’s early music was influenced by the pop and rock culture of the 1960s and 1970s. He wrote songs about girls, love, and fame. He was dubbed as “a pre-pubescent dreamboat” by Time magazine, and was considered a potential rival to Donny Osmond. However, his music career did not take off as expected, and he became disillusioned with the entertainment industry .
Spiritual Awakening and Ministry
Green’s life changed dramatically when he encountered Jesus Christ in 1975. He and his wife Melody, whom he married in 1973, became born-again Christians after a long search for spiritual meaning. They renounced their previous lifestyle and devoted themselves to serving God and sharing the gospel. They moved to a farm in Texas, where they started a ministry called Last Days Ministries. They also opened their home to anyone who needed shelter, food, or spiritual guidance.
Green’s music also reflected his new faith and zeal. He signed with Sparrow Records, a Christian label, and released several albums that became classics in the genre. Some of his most popular songs include “There Is a Redeemer”, “Oh Lord, You’re Beautiful”, “Your Love Broke Through”, and “Asleep in the Light”. His lyrics were often confrontational and challenging, calling Christians to repentance, obedience, and radical discipleship. He also criticized the commercialization and idolization of Christian music and ministry. He gave away his albums for free or for a donation, and refused to charge for his concerts .
Tragic Death and Legacy
On July 28, 1982, Green and his two children, Josiah and Bethany, boarded a small plane along with nine other passengers, including two families and the pilot. They were planning to fly over the ministry property and take aerial photos. However, the plane was overloaded and failed to gain altitude. It crashed shortly after takeoff, killing everyone on board.
Green’s death shocked and saddened the Christian community and the music industry. He was mourned by thousands of fans and friends, who remembered him as a passionate and gifted servant of God. His wife Melody, who was pregnant with their third child at the time, continued his ministry and music legacy. She also wrote a biography of his life, titled No Compromise: The Life Story of Keith Green .
Green’s music and message have influenced many Christian artists and leaders, such as Michael W. Smith, Chris Tomlin, Matt Redman, John Piper, and Francis Chan. His songs are still sung and enjoyed by millions of Christians around the world. His ministry, Last Days Ministries, is still active and publishes a magazine, books, and other resources. His life and death are a testimony of God’s grace and power, and a challenge to follow Jesus with no compromise .
