Graham Kendrick is a highly respected British Christian worship leader, songwriter, and author. Widely regarded as the “father of modern worship music,” he has transformed the way churches around the world engage in praise and worship. Kendrick’s songs, such as “Shine, Jesus, Shine” and “The Servant King,” have become timeless anthems sung across denominations globally. With a ministry spanning over four decades, he continues to impact the body of Christ through music, teaching, and leadership.
Quick Facts about Graham Kendrick
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Graham Kendrick |
| Date of Birth | August 2, 1950 |
| Age | 75 years (as of 2025) |
| Place of Birth | Putney, London, England |
| Nationality | British |
| Occupation | Singer, Songwriter, Worship Leader, Author |
| Education | Studied Theology and Christian Ministry |
| Notable Songs | Shine, Jesus, Shine, The Servant King, Meekness and Majesty |
| Books Authored | Public Praise, Worship: Facing the Ultimate, What God Wants for Your Life |
| Net Worth | Estimated $5 million (2025) |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Children | Yes (daughters) |
| Years Active | 1970s – Present |
Early Life and Background
Graham Kendrick was born on August 2, 1950, in Putney, London, England. He grew up in a Christian home where music and faith played an important role. From an early age, Kendrick displayed a passion for music and a deep love for God. His exposure to hymns and church worship would later inspire his songwriting style, which blends deep theological truths with accessible and singable melodies.
Education
Kendrick pursued theological and ministerial training to better understand the role of worship in the Christian faith. This foundation allowed him to approach songwriting not only as a musician but also as a teacher of Scripture, ensuring that his music is both spiritually enriching and biblically sound.
Career and Ministry
Beginnings in Music
Graham Kendrick began his music career in the 1970s as a singer-songwriter, releasing solo albums that blended folk and gospel influences. His early work laid the foundation for his emergence as a worship leader and songwriter of global influence.
Rise as a Worship Leader
In the 1980s, Kendrick became a central figure in the global contemporary worship movement. His song “Shine, Jesus, Shine” (1987) became one of the most-sung worship songs worldwide, often described as the anthem of charismatic and evangelical renewal.
Spring Harvest and March for Jesus
Kendrick played a pivotal role in Spring Harvest, one of the largest Christian conferences in the UK, serving as a worship leader and songwriter. In the 1990s, he co-founded the March for Jesus movement, which saw millions of Christians from around the world taking their faith and worship into public spaces.
Continued Ministry
To this day, Graham Kendrick continues to write and perform songs that shape worship practices across the world. His music emphasizes servanthood, the cross, and the majesty of Christ, resonating with believers of all ages.
Books Authored
Beyond songwriting, Kendrick has authored several books that encourage Christians to deepen their worship and discipleship, including:
- Public Praise
- Worship: Facing the Ultimate
- What God Wants for Your Life
These works reflect his heart for teaching and equipping believers to understand the purpose of worship.
Family Life
Graham Kendrick is married and blessed with children, including daughters. Despite his global fame, he has always placed a strong emphasis on family values, balancing ministry with being a husband and father.
Net Worth
As of 2025, Graham Kendrick’s estimated net worth is $5 million. His wealth comes from music royalties, book sales, ministry events, and decades of successful contributions to Christian worship worldwide.
Achievements and Legacy
- Pioneer of Modern Worship: Often called the “father of modern worship” for revolutionizing contemporary church music.
- Global Influence: Songs translated into multiple languages and sung in churches across the world.
- March for Jesus Co-Founder: Helped mobilize millions of Christians for public worship and evangelism.
- Awards and Honors: Recognized within Christian circles for his contribution to church music and mission.
- Mentorship: Inspired a generation of worship leaders, including Tim Hughes, Matt Redman, and others.
His legacy lies in creating songs that bridge theological depth with heartfelt devotion, making worship accessible and meaningful for Christians worldwide.
Conclusion
Graham Kendrick’s life is a testimony of how God can use one person’s gifts to impact the global church. As a worship leader, songwriter, and author, he has dedicated his life to glorifying Christ and helping believers encounter God through music. His songs remain timeless treasures in the Christian community, ensuring that his influence will endure for generations.
FAQs about Graham Kendrick
In this section, I willl provide you with FAQs and answers on Graham Kendrick Biography. Continue reading friend.
1. Who is Graham Kendrick?
Graham Kendrick is a British Christian worship leader, songwriter, and author, known as the “father of modern worship music.”
2. How old is Graham Kendrick?
He was born on August 2, 1950, making him 75 years old as of 2025.
3. What is Graham Kendrick’s most famous song?
His most famous song is “Shine, Jesus, Shine,” which is one of the most widely sung worship songs worldwide.
4. Has Graham Kendrick written any books?
Yes, he has authored books such as Public Praise, Worship: Facing the Ultimate, and What God Wants for Your Life.
5. What is Graham Kendrick’s net worth?
His estimated net worth is $5 million (2025).
6. What movement did Graham Kendrick co-found?
He co-founded the March for Jesus movement, which encouraged public worship and prayer walks globally.
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