Bart Millard's Breathtaking 2025: 5 Things You Didn't Know About The MercyMe Lead Singer's Life, New Album, And Massive Tour

Bart Millard, the powerhouse vocalist and songwriter behind the multi-platinum Christian rock band MercyMe, is currently at the center of a massive wave of new projects, proving that his decades-long career is far from slowing down. As of this December 2025, the band is gearing up for a monumental year of music and touring, including the release of their highly anticipated 12th studio album and a major cross-country trek.

From the deeply personal tragedy that inspired the global phenomenon "I Can Only Imagine" to his life as a dedicated husband and father of five, Millard's journey is one of profound faith, enduring creativity, and relentless touring. This article dives into the essential, current, and often-untold details of the man whose voice has defined contemporary Christian music for a generation.

Bart Millard: A Complete Biography and Profile

Bart Marshall Millard is not just the face of MercyMe; he is a deeply personal storyteller whose life experiences have been woven into the fabric of the band's biggest hits. His early life, marked by a difficult relationship with his abusive father, Arthur Wesley Millard Jr., eventually became the inspiration for the song "I Can Only Imagine" and the 2018 blockbuster film of the same name.

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• Full Name: Bart Marshall Millard
• Date of Birth: December 1, 1972
• Place of Birth: Greenville, Texas, USA
• Occupation: Singer, Songwriter, Author, Lead Singer of MercyMe
• Spouse: Shannon Millard
• Children: Five (Sam, Gracie, Charlie, Sophie, and Miles)
• Band: MercyMe (Formed in 1994)
• Notable Solo Work: *Hymned No. 1* (2005), *Hymned Again* (2008)
• Inspirational Story: His life and the story behind "I Can Only Imagine" were depicted in the 2018 film *I Can Only Imagine*.

Millard's career with MercyMe began in 1994 in Oklahoma, and the band quickly rose to prominence in the Christian rock and Contemporary Christian Music (CCM) scene. Their breakthrough came in 2001 with the release of "I Can Only Imagine," which crossed over to become a massive mainstream hit, making Millard one of the most recognizable voices in modern music.

The Massive 'Wonder & Awe' Era: New Album and the MERCYME LIVE 2025 Tour

The year 2025 is shaping up to be one of the busiest and most significant for Bart Millard and MercyMe, anchored by a new studio album and a massive, two-part tour. This period follows their highly successful 2022 album, *Always Only Jesus*, cementing the band's continued relevance in the music industry.

MercyMe's 12th Studio Album: *Wonder & Awe*

MercyMe is set to release their 12th studio album, titled *Wonder & Awe*, on August 8, 2025, through Fair Trade Services. This album is highly anticipated, especially following the success of their single "Oh Death," which has already hit No. 1 on the charts.

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Millard has spoken about the deeply personal story behind the new single "Oh Death," a hallmark of his songwriting style, which often draws from his own spiritual and emotional journey.

The MERCYME LIVE 2025 Tour

To support the new music, the band has announced the extensive "MERCYME LIVE 2025" tour, split into spring and fall legs. This tour promises to deliver the phenomenal in-person experience the 10x-Platinum band is famous for.

The spring leg of the tour features GRAMMY®-nominated band MercyMe alongside special guests Zach Williams and newcomer Sam Wesley. The fall continuation of the tour will feature nine-time GRAMMY nominee Natalie Grant and Sam Wesley. The inclusion of Sam Wesley is a notable family connection, as he is Bart Millard's son.

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This tour schedule demonstrates Millard's commitment to the road, a demanding lifestyle he balances with his family life, a topic he and his wife, Shannon, have often discussed in interviews.

The Enduring Legacy of 'I Can Only Imagine' and Its Potential Sequel

No discussion of Bart Millard is complete without acknowledging "I Can Only Imagine," the song that catapulted MercyMe into the stratosphere. The track remains the best-selling Christian single of all time and is a cornerstone of his musical legacy.

From Song to Silver Screen

The 2018 film *I Can Only Imagine*, which chronicled Millard's life and the transformative relationship with his father, was a massive box office success, becoming one of the highest-grossing music biopics in history.

The movie brought Millard's personal tragedy and ultimate redemption story to a global audience, further solidifying his status as a cultural icon beyond the contemporary Christian music genre. The film’s success sparked widespread interest in the band's discography and Millard’s personal journey.

Whispers of a New Chapter

In recent interviews, Millard has hinted at news regarding a potential sequel to the *I Can Only Imagine* movie. While details remain scarce, the possibility of a follow-up film exploring the next chapters of his life—perhaps focusing on the band's continued success or his family life—has generated significant buzz among fans and industry insiders.

This potential new project underscores the power of his story and his willingness to share his vulnerabilities and triumphs with the world, a core part of his enduring appeal.

Bart Millard's Life Off the Stage: Faith, Family, and Fire Pits

Despite the demands of being the frontman for a major touring band, Bart Millard prioritizes his life with his wife, Shannon, and their five children: Sam, Gracie, Charlie, Sophie, and Miles.

A Partnership in Marriage and Ministry

Bart and Shannon Millard have been open about the challenges and rewards of maintaining a strong marriage while navigating a busy tour schedule. Shannon is often described as Bart's confidant and the foundation of their family life, providing stability while he is on the road.

Their commitment to their family is evident in their son, Sam Wesley, now joining the band on tour. Sam's feature on the MercyMe song "On Our Way" is a touching example of the family's integration into his professional life.

Beyond the Music: Sports and Podcasts

Millard's interviews often reveal his lighter side and his passions outside of music, including his enthusiastic sports fandom. He has been known to discuss the ups and downs of his favorite teams, providing a relatable glimpse into his personality.

He has also engaged in deep conversations on various podcasts, discussing everything from the complexities of personality to faith and, famously, even fire pits, showcasing his down-to-earth nature and sense of humor.

Bart Millard continues to be a driving force in contemporary Christian music. With the *Wonder & Awe* album release and the massive MERCYME LIVE 2025 Tour, his voice and story are set to inspire millions more, proving that his message of hope and redemption resonates now more than ever.