A trailblazer in the Contemporary Christian Music realm, Carmichael stands out as a prolific composer of Christian songs. His ventures into various popular musical styles have earned him recognition as the ‘Father of Contemporary Christian Music’ by some. Carmichael, raised by musician parents, embarked on his musical journey early, receiving lessons in violin, trumpet, and piano. In the late 1940s, he enrolled at Southern California Bible College (now Vanguard University, Costa Mesa, California).
Despite the absence of a music major at the time, Carmichael’s singular focus on music led to his departure without a degree, as he showed little interest in other academic programs. However, the university later acknowledged Carmichael’s musical prowess and appointed him to establish its inaugural department of ‘evangelical music’. Through his interactions with students, Carmichael began to explore how popular music styles could effectively convey the Gospel message to younger generations.
In short order, he assembled a band that secured a coveted slot on The Campus Christian Hour, a Los Angeles TV program that later clinched an Emmy Award in 1950. Throughout the 1950s and 60s, Carmichael oversaw the orchestration of numerous albums for Sacred Records and Alma Records’ Christian Faith label. Additionally, he crafted original compositions such as ‘The Savior is Waiting’ and ‘Love is Surrender’. Carmichael’s versatility extended to the realm of film, where he not only wrote and arranged music but also conducted scores for numerous dramatic productions under the aegis of World Wide Pictures, the film ministry of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association.
Carmichael’s professional horizons broadened in the late 1950s when executives at Capitol Records took notice of his work. They commissioned him to arrange an album for none other than Nat King Cole (1919-1965), one of the label’s premier artists. Carmichael’s collaboration with Cole blossomed, establishing him as the singer’s go-to arranger. Subsequently, he lent his arranging and directing talents to other illustrious voices, including Ella Fitzgerald (1917-1996), Bing Crosby (1903-1977), and Peggy Lee (1920-2002). In his later years, Carmichael’s musical expertise graced the iconic television show ‘I Love Lucy’.
In an effort to broaden the reach of music among the Jesus People, Carmichael established Light Records, a move that stirred controversy within mainstream churches, with some labeling him a heretic. Undeterred by the criticism, Carmichael persisted, and in 1969, he lent his support to gospel singer George Beverly Shea*, providing backing for several of his albums.
Concurrently, Carmichael collaborated with Kurt Kaiser* to compose a folk musical titled Tell It Like It Is. The accompanying record album, featuring the popular song ‘Pass it On’, quickly sold out during its initial and subsequent releases. Notably, Carmichael’s hymn ‘Reach out to Jesus’ found its way onto Elvis Presley’s (1935-1977) Grammy Award-winning album, He Touched Me, released in 1972.
In recognition of his significant contributions to gospel music, Carmichael received induction into the Gospel Music Association’s Hall of Fame in 1985. In 1997, his alma mater, Vanguard University, bestowed upon him an honorary Doctor of Musical Arts degree. Additionally, in 1986, Word Books, Waco, Texas, published his autobiography, titled He’s Everything to Me.
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Within the sacred pages of hymnals, Ralph Carmichael’s compositions also find a cherished place, their melodies serving as beacons of solace and inspiration for countless worshippers. Among these timeless hymns are three poignant compositions included in the SDA Hymnal, each bearing the imprint of Carmichael’s soulful artistry.
“The Savior is Waiting” extends a gentle invitation, a heartfelt call for souls to heed the soft whisper of divine grace. Its poignant refrain, “Why not welcome Him in?”, carries an urgent plea, encouraging listeners to embrace the eternal embrace of love and forgiveness.
“A Quiet Place” transports worshippers to a tranquil sanctuary of the soul, where the chaos of the world fades into a reverent silence. Its soothing melodies, imbued with peace and reverence, provide a sacred haven for weary hearts seeking solace and renewal in the comforting embrace of divine tranquility.
“As We Come To You in Prayer” embodies the essence of supplication, its melody a reverent procession toward the throne of grace. With each note, Carmichael invokes the solemnity of communion with the Divine, guiding worshippers on a journey of surrender and petition, where burdens are lifted and hearts find solace in the presence of the Almighty.
Through these hymns, Ralph Carmichael’s legacy endures, weaving a tapestry of faith and devotion that transcends time and space. As worshippers lift their voices in harmony, they pay homage to a master craftsman whose melodies continue to stir hearts and souls with their timeless message of hope, redemption, and unwavering faith.
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Died: Ralph Carmichael, Composer Who Fought for Freedom of Christian Music
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