Raised in DeLeon, Texas, Chapman says he never dreamed of being anything but an entertainer. In high school, he performed in a school-sanctioned rock band. Indirectly following in his minister-father's footsteps, he attended church-oriented college after high school, where he performed. Later he moved to Nashville, where he joined the gospel group, The Rambos, and began writing songs.
The first performer to record a Gary Chapman song was Amy Grant, who recorded "Father's Eyes," in 1979. Chapman grew as a musician, producer, and songwriter. His song, "Finally," was a No. 1
… More country hit for T.G. Sheppard in 1982. In 1982, Chapman received a Dove award from the Gospel Music Association (GMA) as Songwriter of the Year.
As a performer, Chapman released several albums, including Sincerely Yours, Happenin', and on RCA, Everyday Man. The Light Inside became one of 1994's top contemporary Christian albums and served up hits such as "Treasure," "Sweet Jesus" and the No. 1 song, "Sweet Glow of Mercy." His 1996 album, Shelter, delivered the No. 1 hit, "One of Two". In April, 1996, Chapman was honored as Male Vocalist of the Year by the GMA. In the same year, he earned Dove awards for Inspirational Recorded Song of the Year ("Man After Your Own Heart") and Special Event Album of the Year (My Utmost For His Highest).
In 1996, after an eight-episode, on-camera tryout, he was named Prime Time Country's new host.
Chapman is a devoted father to his three children: Matt, Millie and Sarah. In his free time, Chapman flies planes, rides a Harley motorcycle and his helicopter.
Married:
Jennifer Pittman (1 July 2000 - present)
Amy Grant (19 June 1982 - June 1999) (divorced) 3 children
