MercyMe — History and Songs

History and Sound

MercyMe formed in Texas and began by performing in churches and at youth gatherings.

Vocalist Bart Millard wrote “I Can Only Imagine,” reflecting on meeting God after his father’s death. Bart’s relationship with his father later became the basis for the 2018 film of the same name. The band’s repertoire also includes other songs about faith during difficult times. In “Even If,” this conversation takes the form of a calm ballad that builds into a powerful chorus.

Albums and Recordings

After their early success, the band expanded its pop-rock sound. On “Welcome to the New,” the song “Shake” is built around a lively rhythm and short vocal phrases, while on “Lifer,” the ballad “Even If” develops more slowly, leaving room for the lyrics. Placed alongside “I Can Only Imagine,” they reveal how differently MercyMe can build a song around Bart Millard’s same recognizable voice.