Randy Matthews

Randy Matthews is a pioneering Christian singer-songwriter and guitarist, widely recognized as one of the trailblazers of the Jesus music movement in the early 1970s. Born in 1950 into a family deeply rooted in ministry—with his father Monty Matthews being a founding member of the Jordanaires—Randy began his musical journey early, singing in a quartet during his youth. He made history in 1971 as the first contemporary Christian artist to sign with Word Records, a label that had previously focused on traditional gospel and spoken word recordings. His debut album, *I Wish We'd All Been Ready*, helped usher in a new era by blending gospel messages with rock and folk influences. His follow-up album, *All I Am Is What You See*, was significant enough for Word to start Myrrh Records, a label dedicated to the rising Jesus movement audience.

Known for pushing the envelope, Randy Matthews brought a more rock-oriented band sound to Christian music festivals, sometimes stirring controversy with his energetic style that diverged from the folk-leaning music common at that time. His 1973 album *Son of Dust* showcased his raw, authentic rock voice and passionate message, further solidifying his place as a groundbreaking figure in contemporary Christian music. After his early Christian music career, he also performed under the stage name Redbeard. Matthews' influence remains notable among fans of Jesus music and contemporary Christian rock.