Contemporary worship music
| Contemporary worship music | |
|---|---|
| Stylistic origins | Jesus music, contemporary Christian music |
| Cultural origins | 1950s and 1960s United States |
| Other topics | |
| Contemporary worship, church music | |
Contemporary worship music (CWM), also known as praise and worship music, is a distinct genre of Christian music used in contemporary worship. It has evolved over the past 60 years and is stylistically similar to pop music. The songs are often referred to as "praise songs" or "worship songs" and are typically led by a "worship band" or "praise team," with either a guitarist or pianist serving as the lead. It has become a common genre of music performed in many churches, particularly in charismatic or non-denominational Protestant churches, with some Catholic congregations also incorporating it into the Mass.