Bart Marshall Millard is an accomplished American singer and songwriter, best known as the lead vocalist of the contemporary Christian band MercyMe. His musical journey began in high school, where an injury sidelined his aspirations of becoming a professional football player, leading him to explore his passion for music. Millard’s early experiences with a church youth group worship band ignited his desire to pursue a full-time career in music, ultimately resulting in the formation of MercyMe with friends James Bryson and Michael Scheuchzer in Oklahoma City.

Under Millard’s leadership, MercyMe has achieved remarkable success, recording six independent albums, ten studio albums, two Christmas albums, and three compilation albums. The band’s breakout hit, “I Can Only Imagine,” inspired by the loss of Millard’s father, became a cornerstone of contemporary Christian music, earning them international acclaim and solidifying their place in the genre. Millard’s songwriting prowess has been recognized with numerous accolades, including a Grammy nomination for his solo album “Hymned Again.”

In addition to his work with MercyMe, Millard has released two solo albums, “Hymned, No. 1” and “Hymned Again,” both of which showcase his deep-rooted love for hymns and traditional gospel music. His commitment to honoring his grandmother’s legacy through these albums reflects his dedication to preserving the rich history of Christian music. Millard’s unique blend of influences, from Willie Nelson to Frank Sinatra, has allowed him to explore diverse musical styles while maintaining a strong connection to his faith.

Millard’s contributions to music extend beyond his own recordings; he has collaborated with various artists and has been recognized as Best Male Vocalist by Christianity Today. His story, marked by resilience and faith, has inspired many, culminating in the film adaptation of “I Can Only Imagine,” which further amplifies his message of hope and healing. Bart Millard continues to be a powerful voice in the Christian music scene, using his platform to share his journey and inspire others.