When Jeremy Camp left his Lafayette, Indiana home for a Southern California Bible college, he was considering a life
in the ministry. As a youth his father taught him to play the guitar and Camp filled his off-hours playing. The school's worship
leader heard him and suggested he explore the music ministry on campus. In time, Camp was leading worship gatherings at the
school and throughout Southern California.
It was during one of those meetings in 1996, that Camp met Melissa, and his faith would be tested. The two became a couple
but broke up at her request after four months. Camp continued to minister through song throughout the country and overseas.
Camp reunited with Melissa and they decided to marry even though Melissa had been diagnosed with cancer. Just months after
their marriage Melissa passed away on February 5, 2001.
Her passing prompted Camp to sharpen his focus on his music ministry. His music is a reflection of his devotion to God.
His debut, Stay, was released in 2002. His follow-up, Carried Me: The Worship Project, debuted in the No. 2
spot on the Top Christian Albums chart upon its release in 2004. He garnered a pair of 2004 Dove awards: Male Vocalist of
the Year and New Artist of the Year. That fall he toured and released Restored.
