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No Compromise: The Life Story of Keith Green
He was only twenty-eight when he died in a plane crash with two of his small children, but singer/songwriter Keith Green had already created a legacy of music and inspiration that would outlive him. A spiritual revolutionary, he found freedom through Jesus at twenty-one and spent the rest of his short life convincing others to refuse to accept the status quo and to bring passion and honesty back to the church.
Now, on the 25th anniversary of his death, Melody has expanded and updated her husband's biography with many added stories and insights, never before published photos, extra selections from Keith's private journals, and glimpses into Melody's season of grieving and raising their two surviving children on her own.
499 pages, Paperback
First published September 28, 1989
313 people are currently reading
5121 people want to read
About the author
Melody Green
28 books28 followersMelody Green is a songwriter, musician, counselor, author, chaplain, and activist. Born into a Jewish family, she became a Christian in 1975 and wrote a number of songs which her husband Keith Green performed, including "Make My Life a Prayer to You" and "There is a Redeemer."
They bought a ranch in Texas and began Last Days Ministries in 1979. Melody has since then been the editor and a writer for Last Days Ministries Magazine.
In 1982 Keith died in a plane crash, along with two of their children.
In 1985 Melody founded Americans Against Abortion, and since has distributed over 20 million copies of her tract "Children...Things We Throw Away?"
She resides in Hollywood, CA, and continues to speak. She may be reached with inquiries at: InviteMelody@lastdaysministries.org
They bought a ranch in Texas and began Last Days Ministries in 1979. Melody has since then been the editor and a writer for Last Days Ministries Magazine.
In 1982 Keith died in a plane crash, along with two of their children.
In 1985 Melody founded Americans Against Abortion, and since has distributed over 20 million copies of her tract "Children...Things We Throw Away?"
She resides in Hollywood, CA, and continues to speak. She may be reached with inquiries at: InviteMelody@lastdaysministries.org
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 381 reviews
January 13, 2013
Other than the Bible (of course), this is one of the most life-changing books I have ever read... and reread... and reread. I've gone through ten or 12 copies because I always seem to be giving them to friends. This is the biography of a remarkable man, written by his widow, with excerpts from his journal. The simple yet unbelievably profound explanation for Keith Green is that he tried to be like Christ. No, he wasn't at all perfect, but he just wanted to be like Jesus. On the surface of things, that doesn't seem all that remarkable, but it really means so much. Keith was madly in love with his Savior, and this showed in everything he wrote and sang. He spoke out against a lukewarm Church, boldly gave the missions call, and discovered Grace more amazing than any song could ever tell. Please, read this book.
March 22, 2012
No book other than the bible has ever changed my life the way this has. To see the irresistible way Keith and Melody Green have walked and seeing their transformation through God is amazing. And what's most compelling to me is: Love. This book is full of love and speaks of the love God has for every one of us. That's also the big reason why this book played a key role in God winning me back at a time I thought I was done with him.
July 20, 2009
This is the story of authentic Christianity--one that few see, and fewer live. Keith Green began his spiritual quest as a '60's hippie musician and searched out drugs, free love, perfectionist musical performance, and eastern mysticism before encountering the Living God. He managed to escape the Christian dogmatism of church indoctrination, and learned the Word of God by *gasp* reading it for himself. He and his wife Melody, co-author of the book, lived the sort of life that took Jesus literally, as in giving away your shirt and your cloke also, and feeding the poor and housing the homeless--in their own homes.
Keith was a prophet, calling a back-slidden and lukewarm church to repentance. He did nothing half-way and his lyrics and music resonate with the unusual passion of this man. This is the story of his life, told by the one who walked step by step of it with him until his last tragic plane flight.
For anyone who ever wondered what true Christianity looks like, this is a must-read.
Keith was a prophet, calling a back-slidden and lukewarm church to repentance. He did nothing half-way and his lyrics and music resonate with the unusual passion of this man. This is the story of his life, told by the one who walked step by step of it with him until his last tragic plane flight.
For anyone who ever wondered what true Christianity looks like, this is a must-read.
August 14, 2012
I've always been a big fan of Keith Green and especially love the story of his life. Melody Green did an excellent job telling the story and this will always be one of my most favorite books. It's a glimpse into the life of a real person with an extraordinary faith, but who didn't keep it to himself as some kind of mystic. Keith lived it out with sincerity and invited everyone in for the journey. His mistakes and triumphs matched with his humility and passion for God show us that it is completely possible to live without compromise as we walk in the grace of God.
One of the elements of Keith's life and ministry that I continue to find encouraging and compelling was his determination to present ministry without charge! This remains a striking challenge that most in today's so-called Church are still not heeding (and would rather sweep aside and ignore). Some write this off as a "radical tendency" he had that was unrealistic and over-zealous, yet few are willing to sincerely consider and acknowledge the fact that Keith's decision in this regard aligns perfectly with the New Testament and especially the character and example of Jesus who, himself, said: "Freely you have received, now freely give."
The story of Keith's life and music remains an incredible inspiration for so many, including myself. He was indeed just a regular guy, trying to work out life in connection with his faith, but he demonstrated an extraordinary passion for truth, love and relationship with God that is as compelling as it is convicting!
This new edition is nicely put together. It has a contemporary look and maintains the readable print size of the original. There are more pics in this one too, which is great! I'm just now reading through it again and haven't been able to pick out the added sections yet, which I think is probably good; they are blended well into the new edition.
My original concern was that this "updated" version might make subtle attempts to slant the story a bit with a modern influence. So far, that does not appear to be the case. I was concerned about this because the book features new endorsement by Mike Bickle of the Kansas City prophetic movement; which embraces some concerning doctrines and bizarre beliefs (including a view of ministry that is quite contrary to the mindset that Keith demonstrated in his own life). I'm sure this new endorsement is added because of Melody's favorable connection with some of the people in this movement and I'm sure her intentions are good... It simply led me to be more cautious in the review of this edition (and, as I said before, I am still reviewing it and, so far, it seems to be untainted).
Despite my arguably minor concerns I am really happy to see this great book still in print and I pray it remains so for years to come.
One of the elements of Keith's life and ministry that I continue to find encouraging and compelling was his determination to present ministry without charge! This remains a striking challenge that most in today's so-called Church are still not heeding (and would rather sweep aside and ignore). Some write this off as a "radical tendency" he had that was unrealistic and over-zealous, yet few are willing to sincerely consider and acknowledge the fact that Keith's decision in this regard aligns perfectly with the New Testament and especially the character and example of Jesus who, himself, said: "Freely you have received, now freely give."
The story of Keith's life and music remains an incredible inspiration for so many, including myself. He was indeed just a regular guy, trying to work out life in connection with his faith, but he demonstrated an extraordinary passion for truth, love and relationship with God that is as compelling as it is convicting!
This new edition is nicely put together. It has a contemporary look and maintains the readable print size of the original. There are more pics in this one too, which is great! I'm just now reading through it again and haven't been able to pick out the added sections yet, which I think is probably good; they are blended well into the new edition.
My original concern was that this "updated" version might make subtle attempts to slant the story a bit with a modern influence. So far, that does not appear to be the case. I was concerned about this because the book features new endorsement by Mike Bickle of the Kansas City prophetic movement; which embraces some concerning doctrines and bizarre beliefs (including a view of ministry that is quite contrary to the mindset that Keith demonstrated in his own life). I'm sure this new endorsement is added because of Melody's favorable connection with some of the people in this movement and I'm sure her intentions are good... It simply led me to be more cautious in the review of this edition (and, as I said before, I am still reviewing it and, so far, it seems to be untainted).
Despite my arguably minor concerns I am really happy to see this great book still in print and I pray it remains so for years to come.
January 19, 2025
"I woke up to the sound of Keith softly playing the piano, which was then in our bedroom I didn't know how long he'd been playing, but the presence of the Lord was strong as I lay there listening to the beautiful melody. Keith was weeping, and he told me, "The Lord brought me right into the throne room, and I sang to him and just worshipped."-Melody Green
I have been listening to Keith's music since 2020. I have respected his passion and that his songs always challenged me in ways the Christian music I was listening to at the time wasn't. He quickly became my favorite artist. So, when the opportunity arose for me to read about his life, I did not hesitate to take it.
When I started, I couldn't stop. While there were grammatical errors it never took me out of the book. I felt that it was honest, but never scathing. Honoring, but never idolizing. Having Melody write it was vital to it's emotional immact. Learning the stories behind his songs never ceased to make me smile or even tear up. What surprised me most was Melody's story. By the end of the book, her journey had me in tears.
Now excuse me as I listen to the man's full discography.
I have been listening to Keith's music since 2020. I have respected his passion and that his songs always challenged me in ways the Christian music I was listening to at the time wasn't. He quickly became my favorite artist. So, when the opportunity arose for me to read about his life, I did not hesitate to take it.
When I started, I couldn't stop. While there were grammatical errors it never took me out of the book. I felt that it was honest, but never scathing. Honoring, but never idolizing. Having Melody write it was vital to it's emotional immact. Learning the stories behind his songs never ceased to make me smile or even tear up. What surprised me most was Melody's story. By the end of the book, her journey had me in tears.
Now excuse me as I listen to the man's full discography.
January 10, 2019
I was basically raised on Keith Green's music, and still love it to this day, so I was very excited to read this book. I knew the basic outline of his story, but there were so many pieces that I didn't know. I learned a lot about his spiritual journey and how he found the Lord, as well as details about his years doing music ministry. It was also fun to read the stories behind all the songs! And yes, I cried at the end, even though I knew it was coming.
But this book is more than just a biography. It challenged me in so many ways. Keith was such an intense person in everything, especially his faith. Watching him learn and struggle and grow in his new relationship with Jesus made me look at some things as if I was hearing it for the first time. Keith's message was direct and often uncomfortable, but true- we are called to follow Jesus with everything we are, no compromise.
If you like books about real, raw spiritual journeys, or books about music and ministry, I would highly recommend this one to you, as well as listening to Keith Green's music!
But this book is more than just a biography. It challenged me in so many ways. Keith was such an intense person in everything, especially his faith. Watching him learn and struggle and grow in his new relationship with Jesus made me look at some things as if I was hearing it for the first time. Keith's message was direct and often uncomfortable, but true- we are called to follow Jesus with everything we are, no compromise.
If you like books about real, raw spiritual journeys, or books about music and ministry, I would highly recommend this one to you, as well as listening to Keith Green's music!
December 27, 2020
I loved this even more the second time. I'm thankful to have Keith and Melody's example - especially in their brutal honesty in prayer. It's encouraging to see how some of our favorite songs were written and how God can use flawed people for His good.
August 19, 2025
My parents were saved at the tail end of the Jesus Movement, and I was born the year that Kieth Green died. Having heard his music my whole life I was curious about who he actually was. I always considered him as a mix of eccentric, passionate, and annoying. 😆 I suppose that's how prophets often are!
As a fairly conservative baptist, Kieth's charismatic eccentricities prickled. There as a time when I would have quickly written him off as a nut. Melody's explanations throughout this book were helpful, admitting that his emotional hype and fixations on some of the sign gifts were often immature. At the same time, Kieth's willingness to step away from some of what he considered good things, if it meant avoiding confusion for the sake of the gospel, was surprising and refreshing.
His passion is legendary. For a man who died before he turned thirty, his life is as full as someone with a "complete" life. It didn't seem to be a legalistic drive to "do more" but to point people to Jesus no matter what. He had the means to just up and do things, take in strangers, give away his music, fund a ministry, it's wild!
And yes, his choices are annoying. So are mine sometimes I guess. This isn't a story of someone who did a bunch of stuff to gain attention. His prophetic voice came at a perfect time when the passion of the Jesus Movement needed some grounding.
Relatively speaking, Keith Green sort of came and went. Aside from a couple of songs, the current generation knows very little about him. He was known world-wide, and as far as I can tell, none of my Goodreads friends have read his story. It's interesting, because that's often how prophets work.
This is a great peek at a life developed, lived, and finished, in a unique way, to the glory of God.
Audiobook is on Spotify premium.
As a fairly conservative baptist, Kieth's charismatic eccentricities prickled. There as a time when I would have quickly written him off as a nut. Melody's explanations throughout this book were helpful, admitting that his emotional hype and fixations on some of the sign gifts were often immature. At the same time, Kieth's willingness to step away from some of what he considered good things, if it meant avoiding confusion for the sake of the gospel, was surprising and refreshing.
His passion is legendary. For a man who died before he turned thirty, his life is as full as someone with a "complete" life. It didn't seem to be a legalistic drive to "do more" but to point people to Jesus no matter what. He had the means to just up and do things, take in strangers, give away his music, fund a ministry, it's wild!
And yes, his choices are annoying. So are mine sometimes I guess. This isn't a story of someone who did a bunch of stuff to gain attention. His prophetic voice came at a perfect time when the passion of the Jesus Movement needed some grounding.
Relatively speaking, Keith Green sort of came and went. Aside from a couple of songs, the current generation knows very little about him. He was known world-wide, and as far as I can tell, none of my Goodreads friends have read his story. It's interesting, because that's often how prophets work.
This is a great peek at a life developed, lived, and finished, in a unique way, to the glory of God.
Audiobook is on Spotify premium.
March 27, 2023
A review? When did this happen??
After having just read another Christian biography about the 70s I was a bit skeptical, thought I’d be tired of that narrative - am I glad I read this. Melody Green recounts a compelling story of her and Keith working through drug culture and Christian hypocrisy to become a wildly obedient and faithful ministry to anyone they came into contact with. It was encouraging to read just what can (and did happen) through simple obedience to the Lord, but one of the book’s biggest strengths is how it doesn’t shy away from their mistakes. Both fail over and over and Melody digs into the dirt in order to further expose how God worked through their repeated failure. No compromise as a theme hits right at home in the present day as it did back then, and Keith’s life takes a solid dive into juggling culture, condemnation, and combatting that with radical love. This book includes all of the feels, and necessary reminders in each chapter. Would recommend a lot!
After having just read another Christian biography about the 70s I was a bit skeptical, thought I’d be tired of that narrative - am I glad I read this. Melody Green recounts a compelling story of her and Keith working through drug culture and Christian hypocrisy to become a wildly obedient and faithful ministry to anyone they came into contact with. It was encouraging to read just what can (and did happen) through simple obedience to the Lord, but one of the book’s biggest strengths is how it doesn’t shy away from their mistakes. Both fail over and over and Melody digs into the dirt in order to further expose how God worked through their repeated failure. No compromise as a theme hits right at home in the present day as it did back then, and Keith’s life takes a solid dive into juggling culture, condemnation, and combatting that with radical love. This book includes all of the feels, and necessary reminders in each chapter. Would recommend a lot!
February 13, 2025
I was sobbing at the end. Thankful for the witness he had!
I pray I live as boldly and unashamed as he did for the gospel!
I pray I live as boldly and unashamed as he did for the gospel!
October 15, 2022
Age Appropriate For: 16 and up (drug use, promiscuous lifestyles, and many false doctrines are discussed all in a negative light)
Best for Ages: 18 and up
Let me start this review by explaining how I come into reading biographies. My star ratings do not often reflect the percentage of which I agree or disagree with their person's personal philosophy. There are many things I disagree with Keith Green on when it comes to theology, but this book was not a theology book, this was telling his story.
I grew up listening to Keith Green music in my home. We listened to quite a bit of music from this era of Christian music. I’ve been curious about this book for many years and was surprised and pleased that my library had the book I checked it out and devoured this huge book in two days.
Melody Green is a gifted writer who shared her heart across these pages. She was very honest in her sharing, without going into unnecessary detail about some of the sins she and Keith were involved in. On the other hand, I appreciated that she didn’t whitewash her past or Keith’s. She shared openly and honestly about their struggles, faults, and even some of the big mistakes that were made after they came to Christ.
Green’s story is one of a broken person who chose to live radically for Jesus. He may have been a believer for only the last four years of his life, but he lived with passion. He was devoted to what he felt Jesus wanted him to do, even when others weren’t supportive. His whole-hearted devotion and passion were inspiring.
I don’t agree with some of the charismatic leanings in this book, and I think this book also showed why such teaching is often detrimental. I was so sad at the point in the book when Melody wasn’t having the same experience some others were having, so she felt like she was missing out. She went through so much to have an experience. I felt like this part of the book could be a great way to have discussions about some of the pitfalls of charismatic theology. I know it sparked some great ones with my husband and me. We both grew up with many people around us who were charismatic and others who cessationists. We don’t fit squarely in either camp, so it’s nice to read books like this and have discussions and, of course, go back to the Bible to learn more.
While there were several things I personally disagreed with the Greens on, I also kept in mind this was a man in his twenties whom God used to do great things and who lived with a passion for Jesus. His music continues to bring people to the throne of God in worship. I hope this inspires more people to remember that we aren’t guaranteed a certain number of years, but we can make an impact for the kingdom in how ever many years God gives us.
Personally, my biggest takeaway from this book was to be inspired to live with an undivided heart for Jesus, no matter what He calls me to do.
I highly recommend this book for those who enjoy learning about 80s Christian music, Christian biographies, or just want to be inspired to live fully for Jesus.
Best for Ages: 18 and up
Let me start this review by explaining how I come into reading biographies. My star ratings do not often reflect the percentage of which I agree or disagree with their person's personal philosophy. There are many things I disagree with Keith Green on when it comes to theology, but this book was not a theology book, this was telling his story.
I grew up listening to Keith Green music in my home. We listened to quite a bit of music from this era of Christian music. I’ve been curious about this book for many years and was surprised and pleased that my library had the book I checked it out and devoured this huge book in two days.
Melody Green is a gifted writer who shared her heart across these pages. She was very honest in her sharing, without going into unnecessary detail about some of the sins she and Keith were involved in. On the other hand, I appreciated that she didn’t whitewash her past or Keith’s. She shared openly and honestly about their struggles, faults, and even some of the big mistakes that were made after they came to Christ.
Green’s story is one of a broken person who chose to live radically for Jesus. He may have been a believer for only the last four years of his life, but he lived with passion. He was devoted to what he felt Jesus wanted him to do, even when others weren’t supportive. His whole-hearted devotion and passion were inspiring.
I don’t agree with some of the charismatic leanings in this book, and I think this book also showed why such teaching is often detrimental. I was so sad at the point in the book when Melody wasn’t having the same experience some others were having, so she felt like she was missing out. She went through so much to have an experience. I felt like this part of the book could be a great way to have discussions about some of the pitfalls of charismatic theology. I know it sparked some great ones with my husband and me. We both grew up with many people around us who were charismatic and others who cessationists. We don’t fit squarely in either camp, so it’s nice to read books like this and have discussions and, of course, go back to the Bible to learn more.
While there were several things I personally disagreed with the Greens on, I also kept in mind this was a man in his twenties whom God used to do great things and who lived with a passion for Jesus. His music continues to bring people to the throne of God in worship. I hope this inspires more people to remember that we aren’t guaranteed a certain number of years, but we can make an impact for the kingdom in how ever many years God gives us.
Personally, my biggest takeaway from this book was to be inspired to live with an undivided heart for Jesus, no matter what He calls me to do.
I highly recommend this book for those who enjoy learning about 80s Christian music, Christian biographies, or just want to be inspired to live fully for Jesus.
October 1, 2011
I really loved this book. It was not easy for me to read, in some ways. For one, I knew the ending and I knew I did not want to face it. I also struggled because I understood so much of what Keith Green was struggling with and I just wanted to sit down and talk to him and compare notes! This man truly turned his life over to the Lord and the music that he created along that path is beyond beautiful. I appreciated his widow's very honest and open approach to telling his story. So often it is difficult to be honest about the dead. We tend to idolize them. She did not do this, in this biography. She let us see the very real man that was Keith Green. I recommend Keith Green's music WHOLEHEARTEDLY and I also recommend this book and the inspiration to go forth and do go that it offers.
November 1, 2024
I read this when the book first came out. I mostly enjoyed revisiting Keith's story. I wonder what the trajectory of his theology would have been had he lived. There seemed to be some good progress in places, but a lot of it was way out of whack. The chapter on the concert at Oral Roberts University was very cringey. Yes, Keith, a Christian is someone who's bananas for Jesus in one sense, but a Christian should also be sane for Jesus. You didn't leave enough room for that. But I'll just keep listening to your songs, enjoying and being blessed, and let Him take care of the rest.
Reader was bad. Surely they could found someone who knew Keith and his music well enough not to sound this stupid about it.
Reader was bad. Surely they could found someone who knew Keith and his music well enough not to sound this stupid about it.
Read
November 7, 2023I have so many thoughts and feelings after reading this book. The thing that stood out to me the most was the growth in Keith’s life, as he grew in Christ.
He became a Christian when he was 21 and wrestled with his human flaws and sins, but as he got older his love and devotion to Christ were evident. As each page turned, I saw the work of God in his life, humbling him, moulding him and changing him. Sometimes painful, sometimes hopeful, and always rewarding.
Keith was a singer/songwriter and spoke God’s Word to his audience. His songs were filled with longing and love for Christ. My favourite has always been…
“Oh, Lord, You're beautiful
Your face is all I seek
For when Your eyes are on this child
Your love abounds to me”
This book also confirmed my concerns about the Christian music industry. Many of Keith’s worries and concerns have come to pass. The love of money and fame within the industry are abounding, as well as the lack of standing for Christ. (not to mention the many CCM artists that have turned away from the Lord and His ways) I believe Keith would be grieved immensely if he were still here.
I loved what Keith said near the end of his life, when he realized he was not a ‘special’ prophet as so many had tried to label him…
“So many people told me I was a prophet over the years. I believed they must be right.
It’s not that I no longer believe I’m called to do that. It’s just that now I see that every believer is called to do that.
I’m not called to be a prophet. I’m called to be a Christian, a servant of the living God! That is the highest calling anyone can realize.”
Keith knew who he was, a servant of the living God, and he wanted all Christians to know they were too. No one is more or less in the eyes of God.
Keith passed away in a plane crash at the age of 28. Such a young life, yet such an impactful life. He was truly a man after God’s own heart.
He became a Christian when he was 21 and wrestled with his human flaws and sins, but as he got older his love and devotion to Christ were evident. As each page turned, I saw the work of God in his life, humbling him, moulding him and changing him. Sometimes painful, sometimes hopeful, and always rewarding.
Keith was a singer/songwriter and spoke God’s Word to his audience. His songs were filled with longing and love for Christ. My favourite has always been…
“Oh, Lord, You're beautiful
Your face is all I seek
For when Your eyes are on this child
Your love abounds to me”
This book also confirmed my concerns about the Christian music industry. Many of Keith’s worries and concerns have come to pass. The love of money and fame within the industry are abounding, as well as the lack of standing for Christ. (not to mention the many CCM artists that have turned away from the Lord and His ways) I believe Keith would be grieved immensely if he were still here.
I loved what Keith said near the end of his life, when he realized he was not a ‘special’ prophet as so many had tried to label him…
“So many people told me I was a prophet over the years. I believed they must be right.
It’s not that I no longer believe I’m called to do that. It’s just that now I see that every believer is called to do that.
I’m not called to be a prophet. I’m called to be a Christian, a servant of the living God! That is the highest calling anyone can realize.”
Keith knew who he was, a servant of the living God, and he wanted all Christians to know they were too. No one is more or less in the eyes of God.
Keith passed away in a plane crash at the age of 28. Such a young life, yet such an impactful life. He was truly a man after God’s own heart.
February 23, 2023
Read before Good Reads. Inspiring.
Feb 2023 Lord~You are beautiful. Your face is all I see. And when Your eyes are on this child. Your grace abounds to me.
Make my life a prayer to You. ….
I think the Jesus Revolution had big impact on KG’s life.
Feb 2023 Lord~You are beautiful. Your face is all I see. And when Your eyes are on this child. Your grace abounds to me.
Make my life a prayer to You. ….
I think the Jesus Revolution had big impact on KG’s life.
January 10, 2024
Not quite what I was expecting and very long-winded.
This is the story of the late musician Keith Green, written by his wife Melody. It starts when they first meet, before they became Christians and tells the story of their journey into faith and all the way through to Keith’s untimely death at 28 years old.
I enjoyed a lot of the music history, but everything else was hard to get through. Keith and Melody became really “holier than thou” as soon as they became Christians. At least that’s how the book made it sound. Are they really surprised the church is full of sinners? Mere pages ago they were still hippy drug addicts themselves, so why are they judging everyone around them for their imperfections? Maybe it’s a generational gap thing…or maybe it was the zeal of youth…but it just wasn’t enjoyable to read their constant criticism. It made Keith and Melody sound like horribly judgmental folks, which I’m hoping they were not.
I watched the “The Jesus Music” documentary halfway into reading this and it helped me get a bit of context. The sixties and seventies were just a very different time. The whole rise of Jesus Music is really cool though. And his fellow musicians seemed to all really respect Keith and his music touched a lot of people, so he was doing something right. It’s sad that he tragically died so young and alongside two of his kids.
If you are curious about his story I would recommend skipping the book and instead give his Wikipedia page a quick glance before diving into his music. That’s where his legacy is truly found.
This is the story of the late musician Keith Green, written by his wife Melody. It starts when they first meet, before they became Christians and tells the story of their journey into faith and all the way through to Keith’s untimely death at 28 years old.
I enjoyed a lot of the music history, but everything else was hard to get through. Keith and Melody became really “holier than thou” as soon as they became Christians. At least that’s how the book made it sound. Are they really surprised the church is full of sinners? Mere pages ago they were still hippy drug addicts themselves, so why are they judging everyone around them for their imperfections? Maybe it’s a generational gap thing…or maybe it was the zeal of youth…but it just wasn’t enjoyable to read their constant criticism. It made Keith and Melody sound like horribly judgmental folks, which I’m hoping they were not.
I watched the “The Jesus Music” documentary halfway into reading this and it helped me get a bit of context. The sixties and seventies were just a very different time. The whole rise of Jesus Music is really cool though. And his fellow musicians seemed to all really respect Keith and his music touched a lot of people, so he was doing something right. It’s sad that he tragically died so young and alongside two of his kids.
If you are curious about his story I would recommend skipping the book and instead give his Wikipedia page a quick glance before diving into his music. That’s where his legacy is truly found.
July 15, 2014
I loved Keith Green! When I was a teen, I went to one of his concerts, and loved it. After the concert, I went to his album table, and stared admiring the newest album. He actually came out to the table to talk to the guy working it. I asked the guy how much the album was. He told me, and I thanked him and told him I didn't have that much money. I think I only had two or three dollars. Keith overheard and said, "Go ahead and give it to her." Keith was just that kind of guy. He didn't believe in "selling" the gospel. I dare you to get through this book without having a deeper desire to follow Jesus!
May 24, 2011
I love this book- it's an amazing story of one of the pioneers of contemporary Christian music. Keith Green's legacy reflects his radical faith in Christ and what God can go through a heart sold out to Him. His music and lyrics are timeless worship. Most amazing is this story is written by Melody after Keith's tragic and early death. Her perspective, along with entries from his journal are very detailed. I first read this story over 15 years ago, and plan to re-read it soon.
December 17, 2015
I've been finding recently that I enjoy biographical pieces and to get around to reading about Keith Green was quite a pleasure. Getting such an intimate look at Keith's life is eye-opening as it covers a lot of details about the struggle of faith that I feel a lot of biographies of conversions tend to gloss over.
October 9, 2022
Keith Green was a flame that flickered for a little while and we still feel the heat from his all too short life. This book will give you an appreciation for his music. A beautiful man this guy was. An intense love for Jesus.
September 2, 2012
Very convicting book about a man out and out for Jesus...even if you come down different on doctrine and particulars of holy living...this guy lived what he believed!
December 22, 2014
Inspirational
I loved his music as a young Christian and was heartbroken when God took him home. His story will challenge all Christians. Awesome book!
I loved his music as a young Christian and was heartbroken when God took him home. His story will challenge all Christians. Awesome book!
August 2, 2022
Keith Green, he was everything I should have been.
March 8, 2025
More like 3.75. Another life totally zealous for the cause of Christ. Amazing to watch him grow with seemingly every flip.of the page. I greatly respect that Keith surrounded himself with wiser, more mature. Christian men to whom He was eagerly (not begrudgingly) accountable. He sought their counsel and treasured their friendships. This book left nothing out. My only disappointments were in the details of the "BC".life Keith lived...it took up abiut 35:% of the book. Also, the continual writing of the lyrics to many of his songs, BC and after committment to the lordship of Christ, was tedious. A book I would still recommend to any Christian who needs an example of sold out living for Christ. I would recommmend it to anyone on a spiritually seeking journey, as Keith checked out many options, before turning his life over to Christ. Anyone who likes his music, and especially his hardhitting lyrics, will treasure this book. Keith Green: a true disciple and faithful minister if the Gospel.
October 1, 2024
Make my life a prayer to You...
September 29, 2025
Life changing
Read
November 3, 2025I kinda feel bad cuz.... this was like good but i cant finish it right now???
like life's too hard and hectic to be reading a biography :/
I'll def pick it up again asp tho cuz it was good and keith green is 👌✨
like life's too hard and hectic to be reading a biography :/
I'll def pick it up again asp tho cuz it was good and keith green is 👌✨
January 6, 2026
Dikke dikke tranen…. Deze man…. Wat een voorbeeld! Hier streef ik naar! Zo dicht mogelijk in Jezus zijn wil staan.
March 12, 2026
5 stars 5 stars 5 stars
April 27, 2026
New appreciation for Keith Green unlocked.
But my goodness either some of the phrasing was a bit awkward, or there were multiple typos!
But my goodness either some of the phrasing was a bit awkward, or there were multiple typos!
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