United, formally Hillsong United, came together to reach youth with worship music that had more of a "rock ’n’ roll" influence. The band followed in the footsteps of worship leader Darlene Zschech, who led a separate band “Hillsong” that was based out of the same church.
United’s popular, congregational-friendly songs like "Lead Me To The Cross," "Aftermath," “Your Name High,” and “King of All Days” have been sung in church services around the world and are led by songwriters and worship leaders Joel Houston, Jad Gillies and JD in their native Australia.
Their song, "Search My Heart" off the album Aftermath shows the band's dedication to worship and true devotion to God. "We'd be all living in the aftermath of our sins if it weren't for Jesus," explains Joel. "Because of Him, we're living in a different aftermath, one filled with hope and forgiveness."
United's latest single, "Scandal of Grace," off their new album Zion (February 26, 2013), speaks of the unfathomable grace of God through Christ. "I remembered this conversation I had with this guy who was kind of a disgruntled believer, about God. We were talking about how some things don't make sense, and he said to me, 'it's the scandal of grace,'" explains Joel. "We think of scandal as something negative, but the grace of God through Jesus is completely scandalous! That's why he was crucified. It's much easier to live by a set of rules that we think can take us up to God, when he made his way to us and there is no good enough thing that we can do to get to God. I love that."
In addition to making music, United is passionate about reaching non-believers as well, with I-HEART- a unique opportunity for Christians to put feet to their faith.
I-HEART simply exists to “help more people,” whether it’s the
homeless population or those struggling with drug and alcohol addiction.
To accomplish their purpose, the band partners with believers from
across the globe, making the I-HEART the revolution they've always dreamed
about. I-HEART truly emphasizes the power of Christians teaming together for a common purpose.