12 Musicians That Were Heavily Influenced By The Bible

Music has always been a powerful medium for conveying messages, emotions, and stories. Throughout history, many musicians have drawn inspiration from various sources, including religious texts. The Bible, in particular, has had a major influence on numerous artists across different genres. In this article, we will explore how the Bible has inspired the works of 12 modern musicians, delving into the stories behind their songs and the biblical passages that influenced them.

1. The Byrds

The Byrds, an American folk-rock band, are best known for their hit song “Turn! Turn! Turn!” Released in 1965, this song became an anthem for peace and change during a tumultuous time in American history. The lyrics of “Turn! Turn! Turn!” are almost entirely taken from the third chapter of Ecclesiastes (3:1-8) in the Old Testament. This passage speaks to the cyclical nature of life, emphasizing that there is a time and place for everything under heaven.

Pete Seeger, who wrote the song in 1959, only added a few words of his own, including the iconic line, “a time for peace, I swear it’s not too late.” The Byrds’ rendition of the song, with its jangly twelve-string Rickenbacker guitar and harmonious vocals, struck a chord with listeners and solidified the band’s place in music history.

 2. Lauryn Hill

Lauryn Hill, a member of the influential hip-hop group Fugees, has also drawn inspiration from the Bible in her solo work. One of her notable songs, “Forgive Them Father,” from her critically acclaimed album “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill,” takes its title from Luke 23. The song also references other biblical passages, including the Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6), the story of Cain and Abel, and the concept of “turning the other cheek” (Luke 7).

 3. Dolly Parton

Country music legend Dolly Parton has often incorporated her faith into her music. One of her most beloved songs, “Coat of Many Colors,” is inspired by the biblical story of Joseph and his coat of many colors found in Genesis 37. The song tells the story of young Dolly receiving a patchwork coat made by her mother from fabric scraps. To make Dolly feel proud of her new coat, her mother told her the story of Joseph.

4. CAKE

The alternative rock band CAKE is known for their quirky lyrics and eclectic sound. One of their songs, “Hem of Your Garment,” references a miracle of Jesus described in Luke 8. In the biblical account, a woman suffering from a bleeding condition touches the hem of Jesus’s garment and is miraculously healed. The song uses this imagery to explore themes of faith, healing, and redemption.

5. Nickel Creek

Nickel Creek, a progressive bluegrass band, has also drawn inspiration from the Bible in their music. Two of their songs, “Doubting Thomas” and “21st of May,” contain references to biblical stories and themes. “Doubting Thomas” explores the story of Thomas, one of Jesus’s disciples, who doubted the resurrection until he saw Jesus’s wounds for himself. The song delves into themes of doubt, faith, and the search for truth.

6. Killswitch Engage

Killswitch Engage, a metalcore band from Massachusetts, has also incorporated biblical references into their music. Their song “A Light in the Darkened World,” released in 2009, quotes Joshua 24:15. The song’s lyrics speak to the struggle between good and evil, light and darkness, and the importance of choosing the right path.

7. U2

Irish rock band U2 has long been known for their socially conscious lyrics and incorporation of spiritual themes. One of their songs, “40,” from the 1983 album “War,” is a modification of Psalm 40. The song’s lyrics are a direct adaptation of the psalm, expressing a longing for deliverance and a deep sense of faith.

“40” has become a staple in U2’s live performances, often serving as the closing song in their concerts. The band’s frontman, Bono, has spoken openly about his Christian faith and the influence of the Bible on his songwriting. 

8. Roger Waters and Pink Floyd

Roger Waters, the creative force behind Pink Floyd, has often turned to the Bible for inspiration throughout his career. One of the most notable examples is the album “Dark Side of the Moon,” which features material from the book of Ecclesiastes. 

In addition to “Dark Side of the Moon,” Waters’ solo work also reflects his biblical influences. His album “Amused to Death” explores themes of war, peace, and human nature.

9. Bob Dylan

Bob Dylan, one of the most iconic musicians of the 20th century, has often incorporated biblical references into his music. His 1979 album “Slow Train Coming” marked a significant shift in his career, as it was heavily influenced by his newfound Christian faith. Songs like “Gotta Serve Somebody” and “When He Returns” show Dylan’s deep engagement with biblical themes and his exploration of spirituality.

Throughout his extensive discography, he frequently references biblical characters and stories, using them to convey complex emotions and ideas. For example, his song “All Along the Watchtower” draws on the book of Isaiah, creating a sense of urgency and foreboding. 

10. Johnny Cash

Johnny Cash, known as the “Man in Black,” had a deep and abiding faith that permeated his music. Throughout his career, Cash recorded numerous gospel albums and often included biblical themes in his songs. His 1962 album “The Holy Land” is a prime example, featuring songs inspired by his travels to Israel and his reflections on biblical sites.

Cash’s faith was not just confined to his gospel music; it also influenced his mainstream hits. Songs like “The Man Comes Around” and “God’s Gonna Cut You Down” draw heavily on biblical imagery and themes of judgment and redemption. 

11. Leonard Cohen

Leonard Cohen, the Canadian singer-songwriter and poet, was known for his deep, gravelly voice and his profound lyrics. Cohen’s music often explored themes of love, loss, and spirituality, with many of his songs drawing on biblical references. His 1984 song “Hallelujah” is perhaps the most famous example, blending biblical stories with personal reflections on faith and doubt.

12. Kanye West

Kanye West, the controversial and influential rapper, has often incorporated biblical themes into his music. His 2019 album “Jesus Is King” marked a significant shift in his career, as it was explicitly focused on his Christian faith. Songs like “Selah” and “Follow God” reflect West’s deep engagement with biblical teachings and his exploration of spirituality.

West’s use of biblical imagery extends beyond “Jesus Is King.” Throughout his discography, he frequently references biblical characters and stories, using them to convey complex emotions and ideas. For example, his song “Ultralight Beam” from the album “The Life of Pablo” draws on themes of faith and redemption.