Dustin Kensrue

Dustin Michael Kensrue (born November 18, 1980) is an American musician, singer, songwriter, and hymn writer who has made his mark both in contemporary Christian music and in modern rock. He grew up in Orange County, California, and first gained recognition as the lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist for the influential post‑hardcore band Thrice, which he co‑founded in 1998. Kensrue’s musical style spans genres including alternative rock, experimental rock, and contemporary Christian music, combining lyrical introspection with emotive melodies. Beyond his work with Thrice, he has pursued a successful solo career, releasing albums such as Please Come Home (2007), The Water & the Blood (2013), and Carry the Fire (2015), which blend worship themes with his own artistic voice.

Kensrue’s faith has played a central role in both his personal life and creative output. He has spoken publicly about his Christian beliefs and their influence on his music, and he served as a worship leader and deacon at a Mars Hill Church campus in Bellevue, Washington, before resigning in 2014 amid leadership controversies at that denomination. His solo work The Water & the Blood was explicitly conceived as a worship album, with lyrics rooted in Scripture intended for congregational use.

In addition to his band and solo recordings, Kensrue has contributed to hymnody and worship literature. One of his hymn texts, Should nothing of our efforts stand, has been included in contemporary hymn collections, reflecting his engagement with traditional Christian themes through both modern and devotional musical expression.

Outside of music, Kensrue is also known for his personal life as a husband and father; he married Shadlie Ruby Smith in 2002, and the couple has three daughters. His work continues to resonate with listeners across genres, uniting spiritual reflection with artistic exploration.