wnyc.org / 93.9fm / am 820

Contemporary Christian music is one of the rare success stories in the music industry today. Today, a look at what drives its popularity and far-reaching influence. We begin with Mark Joseph, author of the book "Faith, God and Rock 'n' Roll," about how Christian rock is crossing over into the mainstream. We then turn our attention to Michael McLean, the composer and co-lyricist of "The Ark," a new musical based on the classic story of Noah from the book of Genesis. Then, New York Times reporter Jeff Leeds talks about the marketing dichotomy for this fall's Walt Disney film, "The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe." One soundtrack album has already been released that underscores the Christian allegorical qualities of the narrative, while a second, more secular soundtrack waits in the wings. Finally, a look at "Rock the Sound," an arena concert taking place next weekend in Bridgeport, Connecticut, intended to bring Christian rock to the New York area.