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John Schlitt

John William Schlitt (born February 3, 1950) is an American singer, who was the lead singer of the Christian rock band Petra from 1986 until the band's retirement in early 2006. Prior to joining Petra in 1986, Schlitt was the lead vocalist for Head East until retiring from the band in 1980.

John Schlitt

John William Schlitt

(1950-02-03) February 3, 1950

Singer

1972–present

Biography[edit]

Early years[edit]

John Schlitt was born in Lincoln, Illinois. Shortly after, his family moved to Mt. Pulaski where he grew up. Schlitt began singing and showing interest in music from a very young age. When he was 13 years old, he joined a band called Vinegar Hills Hometown Band Something Different. He went to Mt. Pulaski High School in his hometown and graduated in 1968. It was during his high school years that he would meet future wife Dorla Froelich.[1]


After graduating from high school, Schlitt enrolled in the University of Illinois for a degree in Civil Engineering. However, his main interest was still music. In 1972, he joined the rock band Head East as lead singer with some fellow students of the university. Juggling his musical career and college studies, Schlitt finally graduated from college in 1974 and dedicated himself full-time to his career in music.[1]

Personal life[edit]

Schlitt has been married to wife Dorla since August 28, 1971. They have four children together and reside in Franklin, Tennessee.[16]

- "A Place to Stand" (1988)

Geoff Moore & The Distance

- "Justice" (1988)

Steve Camp

- "Media Alert" (1990)

John Lawry

- "Our Turn Now" (1991)

Carman

- "The Ride Comes Alive" (1995)

4 Him

- "What Sin?" (1998)

Morgan Cryar

- "Real Life" (2003)

Silers Bald

(2004)

Everlife

- "SALT" (2018)

John DeGroff

Media related to John William Schlitt at Wikimedia Commons

Official website