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Key Information

Philip David Wickham[1] (born April 5, 1984)[2][3] is an American contemporary Christian singer-songwriter and musician from San Diego, California. He has released fourteen worship albums: Give You My World in 2003, a self-titled album in 2006, Cannons in 2007, Singalong in 2008, Heaven & Earth in 2009, Response in 2011, Singalong 2 in 2012, The Ascension in 2013, Singalong 3 in 2015, Children of God in 2016, Living Hope in 2018, Hymn of Heaven in 2021, I Believe in 2023, and Song of the Saints in 2025.[4] He has also led worship at Soul Survivor.[5] His single "This is Amazing Grace" has been certified Platinum by the RIAA and it topped the 2014 year-end Christian Airplay chart.[6]

Early life and education

[edit]

Born Philip David Wickham[1] on April 5, 1984,[2][3] Phil Wickham was raised in a Christian home, the second of three children—with brother Evan and sister Jillian—of parents John and Lisa (née Irwin) Wickham. The context for Phil Wickham's early musical and religious pursuits was his parents' commitments; Wickham's father John played in early bands for the early Maranatha! Music label, and met Evan's mother, Lisa, in the band Parable; consistently since 1981, they served as worship leaders in their congregation.[7][8][9] Phil Wickham began leading worship for his youth group at Maranatha Chapel at 13 years old; his parents encouraged him to learn popular praise songs and to write his own.[10]

In 2002, he graduated from Calvary Christian School in Vista, California.

Career

[edit]

Albums

[edit]

Wickham began a full-time music career by touring California and recording his first album, Give You My World, in 2003.[11] After that release Wickham signed with Simple Records. Wickham released his self-titled label debut in 2006.[11][12] Wickham's second release with Simple/INO Records, Cannons, was released in 2007.[11] Cannons was partly inspired by cannon explosions and C. S. Lewis' book, The Voyage of the Dawn Treader from The Chronicles of Narnia series. Wickham stated in an interview with ChristianityToday.com, "The album is about how the universe is exploding with the glory of God, and we are compelled to join in with its song."[3] The 10th track from Cannons, "Jesus Lord of Heaven",[13] has been translated into seven different languages.[3] On August 8, 2008, Wickham released a live worship album, Singalong, recorded at Solid Rock Church in Portland, Oregon with 3,000 in attendance.[14] The album was released as a free download, only available from his website, and received over 8,000 downloads within a week of being released. After the release of Singalong, his self-titled album hit No. 25 on iTunes Store Top Christian Albums sales, two years after its initial release.[15]

Heaven & Earth, Wickham's third studio album, was released on November 17, 2009.[16] His Christmas album Songs for Christmas was released as a digital download available on his website on October 29, 2010.[17] Wickham's fourth full-length studio album, Response, was released on October 4, 2011.[18] On October 30, 2012, Phil Wickham released his second live acoustic album, Singalong 2.[19] The Ascension, Wickham's fifth studio album, was released on September 24, 2013.[20] The album peaked at No. 39 on the Billboard 200, making it Wickham's highest charting album on the chart.[21] The lead single off of this album, "This is Amazing Grace", became No. 1 on the 2014 year-end Christian Airplay Songs chart.[22]

In February 2016, Wickham released the first single, "Your Love Awakens Me", from his album, Children of God, which was released later that year. Living Hope, Wickham's seventh full-length studio project, was released in August 2018.[23] The album debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Christian Albums chart, his first album to do so.[24] On October 4, 2019, Wickham's 10-track holiday album Christmas was released along with the music video for "Joy to the World (Joyful, Joyful)". Wickham toured both Texas and California with Shane & Shane that same December on their annual Christmas tour.[25] Christmas would go on to spend 12 weeks on the Billboard Christian Albums chart, peaking at No. 24.[26]

In June 2021, Wickham's eighth studio album Hymn of Heaven was released.[27] Featuring a guest appearance by Brandon Lake, its releases included "Battle Belongs" (No. 2 on the Hot Christian Songs chart), "House of the Lord" (No. 1) and "Hymn of Heaven" (No. 2), along with It's Always Been You released as a promotional single. Debuting at No. 1 on Billboard's Top Christian Albums Chart in the United States, it also entered at No. 6 on the Official Charts' Official Christian & Gospel Albums Chart in the United Kingdom. At the 2021 GMA Dove Awards, "Battle Belongs" was nominated for the GMA Dove Award for Worship Recorded Song of the Year.[28] The album was nominated for the Billboard Music Award for Top Christian Album at the 2022 Billboard Music Awards.[29] At the 2022 GMA Dove Awards, Hymn of Heaven won the GMA Dove Award for Worship Album of the Year, the title track won the GMA Dove Award for Worship Recorded Song of the Year, and "House of the Lord" was nominated for two GMA Dove Awards: Song of the Year and Pop/Contemporary Song of the Year.[30]

In 2023, Wickham released his next studio album I Believe which was nominated for a Grammy Award for Contemporary Christian Music Album.[31] His next album, Song of the Saints was released in 2025.[32] Song of the Saints debuted at number 2 On the Top Christian Albums Chart.[33] Wickham released a new version of Rich Mullins' 1988 song "Awesome God" in April 2025 titled "What an Awesome God". The single became a success and became his first Billboard Hot 100 entry and topped Billboard's Christian Airplay and AC Airplay charts.[34][35]

Tours

[edit]
Wickham performing in 2008

Wickham visits churches around the world to play his music.[36] From late 2006 to early 2007, he went on the "Coming Up to Breathe" tour with MercyMe and Audio Adrenaline.[37] In late 2007, he went on the Remedy tour with the David Crowder Band and The Myriad.[38] In the summers of 2023, 2024, and 2025, Wickham embarked on the Summer Worship Nights Tour with Brandon Lake.[39]

Festival and other activities

[edit]

Wickham has played Christian worship festivals, e.g., Creation Fest in 2008.[40] In the mid-2010s, Wickham was one of the worship leaders for Soul Survivor week and Momentum Festival in the UK.[5] Since 2012, he has performed at the Big Church Festival in the UK.[41]

On September 21, 2025, Wickham led worship at the memorial service of Charlie Kirk held at State Farm Stadium in Phoenix, Arizona. The assassination of Charlie Kirk occurred in Utah on September 10, 2025.[42]

Wickham voiced King David in the animated biblical film David, which was released in theaters on December 19, 2025 by Angel Studios.[43]

Personal life

[edit]

Wickham married Mallory Plotnik in 2008; as of December 2023, the couple was living in San Diego, California, with their four children.[44] Wickham attends Light Church, a small chapel based in Encinitas, California.[45]

Wickham underwent surgery to remove a polyp from folds of his vocal cords on April 28, 2014, after which he was prescribed a month of silence to allow the surgical site to heal.[46] He was uncertain that he would be able to sing again, leading to identity issues and self-doubt; spiritual insights from this period formed the basis for his 2016 album, Children of God.[7]

Discography

[edit]
Main article: Phil Wickham discography

Filmography

[edit]
Year Title Role Notes Ref
2005 Favouritism Self TV series [47]
2005 Michael Portillo's Great British Losers Self [47]
2007 The Wager Soundtrack (Grace) [48]
2013 On the Spot Interviews Self TV series [47]
2013 This is Amazing Grace Self Video short [47]
2014 Believe Me Soundtrack (You're Beautiful) You're Beautiful [47]
2016 Worship Night in America Self Documentary [49]
2019 Breakthrough Worship Leader This Is Amazing Grace (Breakthrough Mix) [50]
2019 50th Annual GMA Dove Awards Performer TV Special [51]
2020 Christmas with the Chosen Self TV Special [52]
2021 Christmas with the Chosen: The Messengers Self [53]
2024 For The One - A Tour Documentary Self Documentary about Summer Worship Nights Tour [47]
2025 David King David Voice [54]

Awards and nominations

[edit]

American Music Awards

[edit]
Year Nominee / work Award Result
2022 Phil Wickham Favorite Inspirational Artist Nominated [55]

Billboard Music Awards

[edit]
Year Nominee / work Award Result
2022 Hymn of Heaven Top Christian Album Nominated [56]

GMA Dove Awards

[edit]
Year Nominee Award Result ref
2015 "This Is Amazing Grace" Song of the Year Nominated [57]
Worship Song of the Year Nominated [57]
Himself Songwriter of the Year (Artist) Nominated [57]
2019 "Living Hope" Song of the Year Nominated [58]
Worship Song of the Year Nominated [58]
Worship Recorded Song of the Year Won [58]
Living Hope Worship Album of the Year Nominated [58]
2021 Himself Artist of the Year Nominated [59]
"Battle Belongs" Worship Recorded Song of the Year Nominated [59]
Christmas: Acoustic Sessions Christmas / Special Event Album of the Year Nominated [59]
2022 "House of the Lord" Song of the Year Nominated [60]
Pop/Contemporary Recorded Song of the Year Nominated [60]
Himself Songwriter of the Year - Artist Won [60]
"I've Got Joy"[A]
(CeCe Winans) 		Inspirational Recorded Song of the Year Nominated [60]
"Hymn of Heaven" Worship Recorded Song of the Year Won [60]
Hymn of Heaven Worship Album of the Year Won [60]
2023 "Then Christ Came"[B]
(MercyMe) 		Song of the Year Nominated [61]
Himself Songwriter of the Year - Artist Nominated [61]
Himself Artist of the Year Nominated [61]
"Holy Forever"[C]
(Chris Tomlin) 		Worship Recorded Song of the Year Nominated [61]
"This Is Our God" Nominated [61]
2024 I Believe Worship Recorded Album of the Year Won [62]
"Holy Forever" Song of the Year with writers Chris Tomlin, Brian Johnson, Jenn Johnson, Jason Ingram Won [62]
2025 "The Jesus Way" Inspirational Recorded Song of the Year Won [63]
Himself Artist of the Year Nominated [64]
"The King Is In The Room" Worship Recorded Song of the Year Nominated [64]
Hallelujah! It’s Christmas! Christmas/Special Event Album of the Year Won [64]

Grammy Awards

[edit]
Year Nominee Award Result Ref
2023 "Hymn of Heaven (Radio Version)" Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song Nominated [65]
"Holy Forever"[D]
(Chris Tomlin) 		Nominated [65]
2024 I Believe Grammy Award for Contemporary Christian Music Album Nominated [65]

We Love Awards

[edit]
Year Nominee / work Award Result Ref.
2025 "What an Awesome God" Worship Song of the Year Pending [66]

Further reading

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Published works

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Notes

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References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Phil Wickham

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Phil Wickham is an American contemporary Christian music , and worship leader born on April 5, 1984, in , . Raised in a Christian family as the second of three children to John and Lisa Wickham—former members of the 1970s Christian band —he began leading in his youth group and wrote his first song as a teenager. Wickham's career gained momentum in 2003 when, at age 19, he released his independent debut album Give You My World, which led to a signing with INO Records and the release of his self-titled major-label album in 2006. Over the following two decades, he has produced eleven studio albums, including notable releases like Cannons (2007), Living Hope (2018), (2021), and his most recent, Song of the Saints (2025), often featuring collaborations with artists such as and Brandon Lake. His music, characterized by anthemic songs with themes of grace, redemption, and divine wonder, has topped Christian charts and amassed billions of streams worldwide. Wickham's contributions to have earned him widespread acclaim, including multiple —such as Worship Album of the Year in 2024 for I Believe, Songwriter of the Year in 2021, and at the 2025 , Inspirational Recorded Song of the Year for "The Jesus Way" and Christmas/Special Event Album of the Year for Hallelujah! It's Christmas!—as well as Grammy nominations, including two for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album (for Hymn of Heaven in 2022 and I Believe in 2024), and additional nominations in related categories. Songs like "" (2012), which achieved RIAA Platinum certification, and "Living Hope" (2018), winner of the 2019 Dove Award for Worship Recorded Song of the Year, exemplify his influence in church settings and beyond. In his , Wickham is married to Mallory Wickham, with whom he has three daughters—Penelope, Mabel, and Lottie—and one son, Henry; the family emphasizes faith, intentionality, and balancing his touring schedule with home life.

Early life and education

Family and childhood

Philip David Wickham was born on April 5, 1984, in San Diego, California, to parents John and Lisa Wickham. His father, John, served as a worship pastor and musician, while his mother, Lisa, provided strong support within the family; both had previously been members of the 1970s Christian band Parable, with John also involved in The Way. The family was deeply rooted in the Jesus movement of that era, creating an environment steeped in faith and music from the outset. Wickham grew up as the second of three children, with an older brother, , who later became a singer and worship leader, and a younger sister, Jillian. The siblings shared a close-knit dynamic influenced by their parents' involvement in church life, where John Wickham's role as a worship leader at Chapel fostered a home filled with spiritual discussions and musical expression. Lisa Wickham's nurturing presence complemented this, emphasizing family unity and encouragement in their Christian upbringing. Wickham's childhood unfolded in a distinctly Christian household in , where regular attendance at church services introduced him to communal from an early age. Informal family music sessions, often centered around his parents' shared passion for Christian songs, provided his first exposure to the sounds of worship music, igniting a foundational interest in its emotional and spiritual depth. This environment, marked by the parents' legacy in the scene, shaped Wickham's early years without formal structure, allowing faith and melody to intertwine naturally in daily life.

Musical beginnings and education

Phil Wickham was raised in a Christian family in , , where music played a central role from an early age due to his parents' involvement in the of the 1970s. His father, John Wickham, was a member of the Christian bands The Way and , and his mother, Lisa Wickham, was a member of , exposing young Phil to contemporary Christian music and worship traditions through family discussions and recordings. This environment fostered his initial interest in music as a form of spiritual expression, with Wickham recalling how his parents' experiences in those pioneering groups shaped his appreciation for faith-based songwriting. Wickham received his first guitar as a gift from his father around age 12, marking the start of his hands-on musical training. Largely self-taught, he learned to play by studying chord charts from songs and listening to CDs of contemporary Christian artists, combining this with occasional guidance from church musicians rather than formal lessons. By age 13, he was leading in his at , where his father served as pastor, honing his skills through regular performances that blended with simple, heartfelt melodies. This early practice emphasized communal over technical proficiency, building his confidence in creating that connected people to their faith. For formal education, Wickham attended Calvary Christian School in , graduating in 2002; the school's emphasis on Christian values included opportunities for musical involvement through chapel services and extracurricular activities, though specific music programs were not his primary focus. He did not pursue higher education at a or , opting instead to transition directly into music after high school by forming a youth band at church and performing locally in . These pre-professional steps, including small gigs and regional tours, allowed him to refine his songwriting and performance style in church settings before entering the broader .

Career

Debut and early releases (2003–2010)

Phil Wickham began his music career as a teenager in , , releasing his independent debut album Give You My World on September 22, 2003, at the age of 19. The self-produced project, recorded in a small home studio, featured original worship songs that reflected his early influences from family and church settings. To promote the album, Wickham embarked on local tours across , performing in churches and small venues to build an initial audience within the Christian music community. Following the grassroots success of Give You My World, Wickham signed with Simple Records, an imprint of INO Records, around 2005. His label debut, the self-titled Phil Wickham, arrived on April 25, 2006, and marked his entry into the broader scene. The album showcased Wickham's ethereal vocal style and atmospheric production, with standout tracks including "Grace," which opened the record with soaring melodies emphasizing , and "Divine Romance," a reflective piece on spiritual intimacy that gained traction on stations. These songs helped establish his sound, blending indie-rock elements with worship themes, though building a national fanbase remained challenging amid limited promotion and reliance on regional airplay and performances. Wickham's follow-up, Cannons, released on October 2, 2007, expanded on his evolving style with more dynamic arrangements and continued radio support. The title track "Cannons" became an early fan favorite, evoking imagery of and praise through its anthemic chorus, while the as a whole solidified his presence in circles. By 2009, he delivered Heaven & Earth on November 17, introducing bolder production and collaborations, highlighted by the "," a reassurance-themed song featuring guest vocals from MercyMe's that resonated deeply in church settings. These releases marked key milestones, including initial openings for national tours with artists like and modest chart entries on Christian AC monitors, as Wickham transitioned from local obscurity to a recognized voice in the genre through persistent small-venue gigs and growing radio rotation.

Breakthrough and mid-career albums (2011–2017)

In 2011, Phil Wickham released his fourth studio album, Response, which featured anthemic tracks like "Heaven Fall Down" and "At Your Name," marking a shift toward more congregational worship songs that gained traction on Christian radio. The album debuted at No. 9 on the Billboard Christian Albums chart, solidifying his presence in the contemporary Christian music scene. Wickham's breakthrough came with his 2013 studio album The Ascension, led by the single "This Is Amazing Grace," which became his first No. 1 hit on the Billboard Christian Airplay chart and a staple in church worship services worldwide. The song earned the GMA Dove Award for Worship Song of the Year in 2014 and was named Song of the Year at the 2015 BMI Christian Music Awards, highlighting Wickham's growing influence in worship music. During this period, he expanded his role in worship leadership through the live Singalong series, including Singalong 2 (2012) and Singalong 3 (2015), which captured audience participation and emphasized communal singing in live settings. In April 2014, Wickham faced a significant career interruption when he underwent to remove a polyp from his left vocal cord, requiring a month of vocal rest and leading to canceled performances, including at the Catalyst West conference. He later reflected on the ordeal as a time of spiritual growth amid uncertainty about his singing ability. Following recovery, Wickham resumed touring and released his sixth studio album, Children of God, in 2016, featuring introspective tracks like "The Secret Place" and "Better Than Life," which explored themes of and redemption. The album debuted at No. 3 on the Christian Albums chart and received a nomination for Worship Album of the Year at the 2017 . Throughout 2011–2017, Wickham's career grew through increased radio play and church adoption of his songs, alongside collaborations with worship artists such as on shared live recordings. This era also saw his first major award recognitions, including a 2015 GMA Dove nomination for Songwriter of the Year (), affirming his transition from emerging artist to established worship leader.

Recent albums and collaborations (2018–present)

Phil Wickham's seventh studio , Living Hope, was released on August 3, 2018, via , marking a pivotal moment in his career with its emphasis on themes and congregational accessibility. The title track, "Living Hope," co-written by Wickham and , quickly became a cornerstone of modern worship music, topping the Christian Airplay and accumulating over 127 million streams across platforms. The album itself debuted at No. 1 on the Top Christian Albums , showcasing Wickham's growing influence in the . Building on this momentum, Wickham collaborated with Bethel Music on their 2021 album Peace, Vol. II, where he featured on a rendition of "Living Hope," blending his songwriting with the collective's worship style to reach broader audiences in church settings. That same year, his eighth studio album, Hymn of Heaven, arrived on June 25, 2021, featuring guest vocals from Brandon Lake on the track "Where I'm Standing Now," which highlighted their shared vision for uplifting, faith-affirming anthems. The album debuted at No. 1 on the Top Christian Albums chart, with singles like "Battle Belongs" and the title track achieving significant radio play and streaming success, further solidifying Wickham's role in contemporary worship. In 2023, Wickham released I Believe: Songs of on , expanding his catalog with 14 tracks designed for communal singing, including the hit "," which resonated widely in churches and amassed millions of streams. This period also saw Wickham co-writing "" with and , a worship anthem recorded by and featuring Bethel Music members Jenn and on the live version from 2023; the song impacted on March 10, 2023, and became a staple in worship services. Wickham continued collaborating with artists like and Josiah Queen through shared projects and performances, while contributing to broader worship initiatives that emphasized unity and scriptural depth. Wickham's output reached new heights in 2025 with the announcement of Songs of the Saints on July 10, followed by its full release on September 12, featuring 16 tracks including the title single "Song of the Saints," "What An ," and "Homesick For ." The album, his eleventh studio effort, debuted strongly on streaming platforms, contributing to Wickham's cumulative streams exceeding 1.4 billion across his by mid-2025. This release underscored ongoing collaborations, such as joint tours and recordings with Brandon Lake, reinforcing Wickham's commitment to collaborative worship experiences. From 2023 to 2025, Wickham garnered multiple , including four wins at the 55th Annual Dove Awards in 2024 for I Believe, such as Worship Album of the Year, and an Inspirational Recorded Song of the Year at the 56th in 2025, reflecting the commercial and spiritual impact of his work. Tracks like "" and "" topped Christian s, with the former peaking at No. 2 on Billboard's and No. 1 on the Christian , while his albums consistently ranked high, driving streaming milestones that positioned him among the top contemporary Christian artists. Wickham's recent output demonstrates a clear evolution toward crafting anthemic songs optimized for church congregations, prioritizing singable melodies and theological depth over personal introspection, as seen in the congregational focus of albums like and Songs of the Saints. This shift has amplified his songs' adoption in global settings, fostering a legacy of accessible, unifying music.

Live performances

Headlining tours

Phil Wickham's headlining tours emphasize interactive worship, fostering communal singing and prayer in arenas across the , with a consistent focus on fan engagement through high-energy, participatory performances. Following his recovery from vocal cord surgery in 2014, which had temporarily halted his live shows, Wickham resumed performing with a series of intimate worship concerts in mid-2014, such as his July show at Christian Freedom Baptist Church in . These early post-recovery appearances featured smaller venues and themes of gratitude and vocal resilience, drawing dedicated fans for uplifting experiences. The Living Hope Tour (2018–2019) represented a breakthrough in scale, filling large venues such as the Long Beach Convention Center and other convention halls and arenas nationwide. Promoting his album Living Hope, the tour highlighted themes of and eternal hope, with sold-out shows that integrated audience-led choruses and dynamic lighting to enhance communal worship. Amid the , the Hymn of Heaven Tour (2021–2022) adapted by incorporating health protocols like masking and spacing while expanding to major arenas, including stops in Tampa, , and Grand Rapids. Featuring special guest , it promoted Wickham's pandemic-era album and centered on heavenly praise and spiritual renewal, achieving strong attendance as live events resumed. In 2025, the Summer Worship Nights Tour, co-headlined with Brandon Lake and special guest Josiah Queen, spanned 11 U.S. cities from July to August, including arenas like and drawing over 30,000 attendees at select stops for prayer-focused nights. Building on sold-out prior years, the tour amplified interactive elements, blending Wickham's hits like "" with collaborative worship to deepen fan connection. The Singalong Tour in 2025, featuring and , visited multiple U.S. cities from January to April, including stops in , , and Chattanooga, with many shows selling out and focusing on extended communal singalong sessions of songs. The upcoming Song of the Saints Tour (2026), headlined by Wickham with and Jamie MacDonald, will visit 24 U.S. cities starting March 18 in , at venues like at the BJCC. Continuing the evolution toward large-scale, multi-artist , it promises sold-out interactive shows emphasizing saintly and .

Festival appearances and special events

Phil Wickham has made notable appearances at major festivals and conferences, contributing to communal experiences across various platforms. Early in his , he performed at the , including sets in 2006 where he led audiences in songs emphasizing God's love, and subsequent years in 2007 and 2008 that highlighted his emerging role in the worship genre. More recently, Wickham has been a key performer at the Passion Conference, such as the edition at Atlanta's , which gathered 55,000 young adults for multi-day sessions featuring collaborative sets with artists like Brandon Lake. Beyond festivals, Wickham has participated in special events like Winter Jam, Christian music's largest annual tour, with a confirmed performance slated for the 2026 lineup alongside artists including and . He is also set to appear at Rock the Universe 2026, a faith-based music event at , sharing the stage with performers such as and on the Music Plaza Stage. Additionally, Wickham has joined church-led worship nights, including intimate release show collaborations like his 2025 performance of "Song of the Saints" with . Wickham's involvement extends to holiday specials and collaborative worship gatherings, such as the Christmas Tour in December 2025, where he will perform with special guest Jon Reddick across venues like Chapel in and Chapel Downey. He has also contributed to joint projects with , co-writing and performing tracks like "He Has Done Great Things" with in 2025, enhancing the broader worship movement through shared artistic endeavors. During the in 2020–2021, Wickham adapted to virtual formats, headlining an online concert with to honor the and support graduating seniors amid restrictions. These events underscore Wickham's commitment to accessible, faith-centered gatherings that unite diverse audiences in praise.

Personal life

Marriage and family

Phil Wickham married his longtime girlfriend, Mallory Plotnik, on November 2, 2008. The wedding took place in Encinitas, California, where the couple has since made their home. Wickham and Plotnik have four children: daughters Penelope (born 2011), Mabel (born 2013), and Lottie Elizabeth (born April 12, 2015), and son Henry (born 2017). The family resides in , where Wickham balances his demanding touring schedule with daily life, often prioritizing faith-centered routines such as family worship and outdoor activities. In interviews, he has described the challenges of being on the road while maintaining strong family bonds, noting the "joyful chaos" of raising young children amid his career. Mallory Wickham plays a supportive role in her husband's career, occasionally joining him on tour dates and contributing to his presence by sharing glimpses of family life that align with their shared values of and gratitude.

Health challenges

In early , Phil Wickham faced a sudden vocal crisis during his touring schedule when he lost significant use of his voice, later diagnosed as a polyp on his left vocal cord caused by overuse. This condition forced him to cancel several performances, including his appearance at West conference, as the irregularity threatened his ability to sing and speak normally. Wickham underwent emergency surgery on April 28, 2014, to remove the polyp, a procedure performed under using a and to excise the growth from his vocal fold. Post-surgery, he adhered to a strict rehabilitation regimen that included eight weeks of complete vocal silence—no talking, , or clearing—followed by intensive speech therapy to rebuild strength and control in his voice. The recovery process was challenging, with initial checkups confirming good healing but requiring patience to avoid complications. By July 2014, Wickham had made a gradual comeback, receiving medical clearance to resume and performing live, including a concert at Christian Freedom Baptist Church in . For long-term management, he adopted preventive measures such as vocal rest periods, hydration routines, and simplified performance styles to reduce strain and prevent recurrence, lessons he later shared to emphasize sustainable vocal health for musicians. The ordeal profoundly impacted Wickham emotionally and spiritually, prompting deep reflections on his identity beyond music; he described questioning his purpose during the silence, only to find reassurance in his , viewing the experience as a divine reminder of God's and his value as a . In interviews, Wickham highlighted how strengthened his trust in divine provision, transforming his songwriting to focus more on themes of resilience and worship amid trials.

Musical style and influences

Artistic evolution

Phil Wickham's artistic journey began in the mid-2000s with a style rooted in acoustic folk-worship, drawing from traditions and influences such as , Keane, and . His debut self-titled album in 2006 showcased a blend of intimate acoustic guitar-driven tracks and arrangements, emphasizing personal devotion through Wickham's distinctive vocals and reverent tones. This early sound, evident in albums like Cannons (2007), prioritized emotional, stripped-back expressions suitable for individual reflection, reflecting his upbringing in a family immersed in . Wickham underwent in 2014 to remove a vocal polyp, requiring months of silence. Following his recovery, his music incorporated more expansive anthems with electronic elements, including ambient synths and layered production in the 2018 Living Hope, creating soaring tracks suited for communal . These modern textures marked a departure from his acoustic origins. In the 2020s, Wickham's production has grown fuller, integrating orchestral swells and pop sensibilities, as seen in his 2025 release Song of the Saints. This album employs detailed, layered arrangements that stretch his vocal range and sonic palette, blending heavenly echoes with earthbound rhythms to foster widespread sing-alongs. Overall, Wickham's arc has transitioned from introspective devotionals to anthemic works tailored for collective worship, continually adapting while maintaining his core worship ethos.

Songwriting themes and impact

Phil Wickham's songwriting frequently explores themes of redemption, , and God's , drawing believers into a narrative of and triumph over despair. In songs like "," he celebrates the transformative power of Christ's sacrifice, portraying grace as a force that breaks chains and restores freedom, rooted in the biblical account of the cross. Similarly, "Living Hope" encapsulates the full arc of , from humanity's fall to victory, emphasizing as an anchor amid and a declaration of God's ultimate over death and . Wickham's songwriting process often begins with a divinely inspired or phrase, which he develops collaboratively with co-writers to ensure theological depth and congregational singability. He prioritizes a scriptural foundation, aiming to craft lyrics that directly echo verses for authentic worship application, as seen in tracks like "Able," inspired by Ephesians 3:20 to affirm God's exceeding power. This collaborative approach, involving artists such as Brandon Lake and Jonathan Smith, fosters songs that resonate universally while maintaining scriptural integrity. The impact of Wickham's work extends deeply into the modern worship movement, with his songs widely adopted in churches globally for their ability to unite congregations in proclamation and reflection. By , his catalog had amassed over two billion streams, reflecting broad cultural penetration and enduring relevance in Christian communities. His influence is evident in the way younger artists draw from his melodic and lyrical style, incorporating similar themes into their own contributions, while his compositions have become staples at major global Christian gatherings, amplifying messages of and redemption across diverse audiences.

Discography

Studio albums

Phil Wickham's studio albums span his career as a contemporary Christian worship artist, showcasing his evolution from indie releases to major label productions with themes of grace, hope, and praise. His discography emphasizes anthemic songs designed for congregational singing, often featuring collaborations with producers like Jonathan Berlin and Mia Fieldes.
YearAlbumTracksKey Details
2003Give You My World10Independent debut album.
2006Phil Wickham10Debut major-label album introducing Wickham's signature atmospheric worship sound; peaked at No. 8 on the Billboard Christian Albums chart.
2007Cannons11Second album with radio single "Grace" highlighting redemption themes; produced by Peter Kipley; peaked at No. 16 on the Billboard Christian Albums chart.
2009Heaven & Earth11Features the track "Eden"; peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard Christian Albums chart.
2011Response11Released following Wickham's recovery from vocal surgery, including songs like "Heaven Fall Down" and "Joy."
2013The Ascension11Concept album inspired by themes of worship and elevation; peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard Christian Albums chart.
2016Children of God11Features tracks like "Children of God" and "Body of a Believer"; peaked at No. 3 on the Billboard Christian Albums chart.
2018Living Hope12Hit album featuring the title track "Living Hope," which became a staple in churches; debuted at No. 1 on Billboard Christian Albums.
2021Hymn of Heaven12Pandemic-era release with songs reflecting eternal hope, including "Hymn of Heaven"; debuted at No. 1 on Billboard Christian Albums.
2023I Believe14Worship-focused collection with tracks like "I Believe" and "Sunday Is Coming"; debuted at No. 1 on Billboard Top Christian Albums.
2025Songs of the Saints16Latest release featuring co-writes with artists like Brandon Lake and anthems such as "What an Awesome God" and "Homesick for Heaven"; debuted at No. 2 on Billboard Top Christian Albums.

Live albums and EPs

Phil Wickham's live albums primarily consist of the Singalong series, which captures congregational experiences with a focus on singable arrangements of his songs and covers. These releases emphasize communal participation, often recorded during tours or special events to foster a sense of collective praise. The inaugural Singalong album, released in August 2008, features 15 tracks performed in a live setting, including originals like "Cannons" and hymns such as "It Is Well with My Soul." Recorded with an emphasis on acoustic elements and audience interaction, it marked Wickham's initial foray into live recordings. Singalong 2, an acoustic live album, arrived on October 30, 2012, with 14 tracks blending new material and fan favorites like "Heaven Fall Down" and "." It was designed for intimate settings, highlighting Wickham's vocal delivery and minimal instrumentation to encourage home or church singalongs. Continuing the series, Singalong 3 (Live) was released on May 12, 2015, comprising 13 tracks such as "/," "The Ascension," and "." This installment, peaking at No. 1 on the Christian Albums chart, expanded on the participatory style with fuller band arrangements and guest contributions. Singalong 4 (Live) followed in May 2019, featuring 10 tracks including "Great Things" and collaborations with artists like and from . Recorded during live events, it reached significant streaming milestones and reinforced the series' role in Wickham's touring repertoire. In addition to the Singalong series, Wickham has issued acoustic live sessions and holiday albums that extend his live performance ethos. Children of God Acoustic Sessions, released in 2016, offers stripped-down live-inspired renditions of tracks from the Children of God album, such as "The Secret Place" featuring , emphasizing raw emotional delivery. For holiday releases, Songs for Christmas, a 10-track album with arrangements of classics like "The First Noel" and originals, was released in October 2010. It ties into Wickham's seasonal worship events. Christmas, a 10-track holiday album with live-feel arrangements of classics like "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" and originals, was released in October 2019. It ties into Wickham's annual Christmas tours, providing supplementary material for seasonal events. Most recently, Hallelujah! It's Christmas! (2024) adds 11 tracks of festive worship, including "Angels (Glory to God)." During the in , Wickham adapted to virtual formats by hosting livestreamed worship sessions and debuting new music written in isolation, though formal virtual live albums were limited; notable outputs include single live tracks from home-based performances shared online. These efforts maintained connection with fans amid tour cancellations.
ReleaseYearTypeKey TracksNotes
2008Live AlbumCannons, Desire, It Is Well with My Soul15 tracks; debut live release
22012Live Acoustic AlbumHeaven Fall Down, Messiah, Divine Romance14 tracks; intimate acoustic focus
3 (Live)2015Live Album, Fall Afresh, My All in All13 tracks; No. 1 Christian Albums peak
Singalong 4 (Live)2019Live AlbumGreat Things, You Cannot Be Stopped, Tremble10 tracks; collaborations included
Children of God Acoustic Sessions2016Live Acoustic EPThe Secret Place, Body of a Believer, Supplementary to studio album
Songs for 2010Holiday Album, , 10 tracks; seasonal worship focus
2019Holiday Album (Joyful, Joyful), Face of God, 10 tracks; tour companion
Hallelujah! It's !2024Holiday AlbumAngels (Glory to God), , 11 tracks; recent festive release

Awards and nominations

GMA Dove Awards

Phil Wickham has earned multiple nominations at the , the preeminent honors for achievement in Christian and . His nominations have been consistent since 2018, totaling over 20 by 2025 across various categories including albums, recorded songs, and songwriter honors. These nods underscore his influence in contemporary Christian . Wickham's wins at the highlight his contributions to music. In 2019, at the 50th Annual , "Living Hope" won Worship Recorded Song of the Year; the track, co-written with , was performed live at the ceremony alongside . The 53rd Annual in 2022 marked a breakthrough year, with Wickham winning three awards: Songwriter of the Year (Artist), Worship Album of the Year for , and Worship Recorded Song of the Year for the album's title track. These victories celebrated the album's role in church worship and its thematic focus on heavenly hope. At the 55th Annual in 2024, Wickham was the most awarded artist, securing four honors that reflected his prolific output. These included Song of the Year for "" (co-written with , , , and ), Worship Album of the Year for , and Christmas Recorded Song of the Year for "Manger Throne" from his holiday project. The wins emphasized tracks from , which narrates Christ's life through worship songs. At the 56th Annual in 2025, Wickham won Inspirational Recorded Song of the Year for "The Jesus Way" and received a for .

Grammy Awards

Phil Wickham has earned five Grammy nominations in categories recognizing , reflecting his broadening influence beyond faith-based circles and into mainstream recognition by . As of 2025, he has not secured a win in any of these categories, yet the nominations underscore his crossover appeal, driven by songs and albums that resonate widely through radio play, streaming, and live worship settings. Wickham's first nomination came at the in 2019 for Best Album for his 2018 release Living Hope, which featured anthemic tracks blending scriptural themes with accessible pop-rock production. The following year, at the in 2020, he received another nod in Best Performance/Song for the album's title track "Living Hope," a staple that also garnered a for Worship Recorded Song of the Year. At the in 2022, Wickham was nominated for Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song for "Hymn of Heaven," highlighting his evolution toward more orchestral and communal worship sounds. In 2023, at the , he earned a nomination as co-writer for Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song for "Holy Forever" (performed by ), a collaborative hymn emphasizing reverence and divine holiness that similarly won Dove Awards for its inspirational impact. Most recently, at the in 2024, Wickham received a nomination for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album for I Believe. These accolades demonstrate Wickham's ability to craft enduring worship music that attracts attention, often paralleling his successes in awards circuits.

Other honors

In addition to his major accolades, Phil Wickham has earned nominations at the , including for Top Christian Album with Hymn of Heaven in 2022 and for Top Christian Artist and Top Christian Song in 2023. He received a for Favorite Inspirational at the 2022 . Wickham has been honored multiple times at performing rights organization awards for his songwriting, such as the 2015 ASCAP Christian Music Award for Song of the Year with "" and the 2024 BMI Christian Awards Songwriter of the Year title. His recordings have also achieved significant commercial certifications from the RIAA, including Platinum status for "This Is Amazing Grace," "Living Hope," and "Battle Belongs," along with Gold certifications for tracks like "House of the Lord" as of 2025, reflecting over 2 billion U.S. streams across his catalog.

References

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