Richard Wayne Mullins (
October 21,
1955 –
September 19,
1997) was an
American Christian music singer and
songwriter born to John and Neva Mullins in
Richmond, Indiana. He was killed in a jeep accident in September 1997.
Mullins is best known for his
worship songs "Step by Step" (later incorporated into his hit single "Sometimes by Step") and "
Awesome God", both of which have been embraced as modern classics by many
Christians. Some of his albums are also considered among
Christian music's best, including
Winds of Heaven, Stuff of Earth (1988),
The World As Best As I Remember It, Volume One (1991) and
A Liturgy, A Legacy, & A Ragamuffin Band (1993). His music has been covered by many artists, including
Caedmon's Call,
Five Iron Frenzy,
Amy Grant,
Jars of Clay,
Michael W. Smith,
John Tesh,
Chris Rice and
Third Day.
[Rich Mullins song list]
Rich Mullins is also remembered for his devotion to the
Christian faith, which was often an inspiration to others. He was heavily influenced by
St. Francis of Assisi (1181-1226). In 1997, he composed a musical called
Canticle of the Plains, a retelling of the life of
St. Francis set in the
Old West.
[ ]