Some musicians walk into the studio hoping to reinvent themselves or chase the latest trend, but worship artist Chris Tomlin has never been driven by popularity. Instead, he remains committed to creating songs that speak to the heart of the church. With his album Love Ran Red, Tomlin continues in that calling—crafting music that encourages believers and draws them closer to God.
“For me, it’s not about changing who I am or making a different type of record,” Tomlin explains. “My focus has always been the same: writing songs the church can sing—songs that reach the heart.” He believes Love Ran Red represents some of his strongest work yet.
This is a bold statement considering the massive success of his previous album Burning Lights, which debuted at No. 1 in 2013. That project sparked a sold-out tour, multiple Billboard Music Award nominations, a BMI Songwriter of the Year honor, and a K-LOVE Fan Award for Male Vocalist of the Year.
Yet with Love Ran Red, Tomlin continues that momentum. Produced by his longtime collaborator Ed Cash, the album blends themes of hope, adoration, and the peace of God’s presence into twelve worship-centered tracks. It stretches creatively while staying rooted in the timeless messages that have defined Tomlin’s ministry for years.
Songs That Stir Worship and Deep Faith
One of the album’s standout tracks is “Waterfall,” a joyful anthem comparing God’s love to a rushing, refreshing stream. Its rhythm and lyrical call-and-response create a sense of freedom and celebration.
Another key song is “Jesus Loves Me,” a deeply personal piece that explores the simplicity and power of God’s love. Beginning with a gentle piano line and building to a powerful chorus, the song reminds listeners that no matter how deep theology goes, the foundation remains the same: Jesus loves us.
Tomlin describes the writing experience as emotional and honest. “It came from a very deep place,” he shares. “We can run our whole lives from God, but His love finds us. At the end of the day, it still comes down to those three words: Jesus loves me.”
The album also features the majestic worship track “Almighty.” Like “Jesus Loves Me,” it begins with solo piano but moves in a different direction—honoring God’s holiness, power, and unmatched greatness. Its soaring melodies and powerful declarations make it one of Tomlin’s most grand worship songs.
“It feels like a glimpse of heaven,” Tomlin reflects. “I don’t know if I’ve ever written anything bigger.”
The Title That Defines the Album’s Message
The phrase “Love Ran Red” comes from the emotional centerpiece of the record, the song “At the Cross.” Its unforgettable line—
“Where Your love ran red and my sin washed white”—
captures the saving power of Jesus’ sacrifice. Tomlin says this lyric embodies the heart of the gospel and expresses exactly what churches around the world aim to proclaim.
According to Tomlin, the songs were crafted with worship in mind. Many of them are easy for congregations to sing, yet rich enough to resonate in large concert settings. The recording took about seven months, with dozens of songs written—ten of which were cut to refine the final tracklist.
A Career That Continues to Shape Worship Worldwide
Chris Tomlin’s impact on Christian worship is undeniable. His catalog includes modern worship staples such as “How Great Is Our God,” “Our God,” “Whom Shall I Fear,” “Jesus Messiah,” and “Indescribable.” With:
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12 No. 1 radio hits
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Multiple GRAMMY® nominations
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A GRAMMY® Award win
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Numerous Dove Awards
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Millions of albums sold
Tomlin remains one of the most influential artists in contemporary worship.
More remarkably, more than 40 million people sing his songs in churches every week—leading TIME magazine to call him “likely the most often-sung artist anywhere.”
Despite the accolades, Tomlin’s heart remains humble. He recalls visiting a small church of about 100 people while finishing the album. No one recognized him, but as the service continued, the worship team began singing several of his songs. Tomlin listened quietly, moved by the reminder that his music belongs to the church—not to fame.
“It goes beyond me,” he said. “It’s about giving people songs that point them to Jesus.”
A Project Full of Purpose and Passion
With Love Ran Red, Chris Tomlin continues his mission of creating worship music that strengthens faith and inspires believers around the world. The album is both a continuation of his legacy and a fresh statement of devotion—filled with energy, reverence, and a deep desire to draw people into the presence of God.
It is, at its core, an offering of worship—one that invites the church to lift its voice and remember the love that flowed from the cross.
