What began as a humble outpouring of local worship in a small town in Northern California has grown into one of the most influential worship movements of the modern Church. In 2025, Bethel Music celebrates 25 years of ministry, a quarter-century of songs, moments, and spiritual awakenings that have echoed far beyond the walls of Redding’s Bethel Church.
Co-founded by Brian and Jenn Johnson in 2001, Bethel Music emerged from the overflow of their home church’s passion for God’s presence. But what started as a simple pursuit became a global sound that helped define the first wave of modern worship.
Since their official recorded debut with Here Is Love in 2010, Bethel Music has released an extraordinary catalog of worship offerings: 14 live albums, 3 studio albums, 1 compilation, 4 remix projects, an EP, 10 singles, over 70 music videos, and more than 60 lyric videos. Landmark albums like Tides (their first U.S. and UK Christian chart-topper) and Revival’s in the Air solidified their sonic footprint in the canon of modern worship.
In July 2025, a milestone celebration at Bethel’s College View campus brought together nearly 1,200 worship-school students, alumni, and ministry leaders from around the world. The gathering became a moment of legacy and gratitude honoring the Johnsons’ leadership and Bethel Music’s global impact.
The night overflowed with tributes from some of the most iconic voices in worship. CeCe Winans shared, “Thank you for leading the world in worship for 25 years. You have been a blessing to my life…” Chris Tomlin added, “You’ll never know this side of heaven, but one day you’ll see in full the incredible impact…” And Darlene Zschech, whose own legacy shaped worship culture, joined in celebrating the Johnsons’ faithfulness and anointing.
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As Brian Johnson reflected from the stage, “When we started, it was never about numbers or songs. It was about creating a space where God could dwell. Twenty-five years later, that’s still our heart.” Jenn Johnson added, “We’re incredibly grateful. For the people, the presence, the breakthroughs, and above all, the faithfulness of God in every season.”
According to a CBN report, Bethel leaders described this season as the “birthing” of something new. With re-imagined worship moments, live recordings, and never-before-told stories on the way, the next chapter is already unfolding.
From the early days of acoustic worship in Redding to filling stadiums and streaming worship to millions, Bethel Music has been part of the first wave of leaders and worshippers who helped rewrite what worship could look and sound like in the 21st century.
Bethel Music’s legacy reflects consistency, impact, and vision. With the celebration of 25 years, and new projects on the horizon, the Johnsons and their team continue to invite believers into worship that transcends performance. It’s rooted in presence, intimacy, and revival.