Hillsong Young & Free’s “Real Love” Marks 10 Years Of Global Worship Impact
Hillsong Young & Free’s “Real Love” Marks 10 Years Of Global Worship Impact. A decade on, “Real Love” by Hillsong Young & Free continues to echo through churches and gatherings across the world, proving that some songs carry a life far beyond their release moment. First introduced on the 2016 album Youth Revival, the track has held its place as a defining anthem for a generation of young worshippers.
On April 19, Alexander Pappas, co-writer of the song, founding member of the group, and the voice behind its original recording, marked the milestone with a short but striking reflection on social media: “Turns out this goes off just as hard 10yrs later… 10 years of Real Love.”
His post, paired with energetic live footage, served as more than a look back. It underscored the ongoing influence of a song that captured something genuine at its core. From its earliest moments, “Real Love” connected deeply with young people, offering a vibrant expression of faith centered on the relentless and pursuing love of God. Recorded live in Sydney in 2015 and released the following year, it quickly became a fixture in youth services, conferences, and global worship spaces.
Written alongside Hannah Hobbs, the song delivers a message that feels both simple and profound. Its lyrics speak of a love that goes beyond words, holds firm, and never lets go. Combined with an upbeat pop-rock sound driven by synths and bold choruses, it created a space where young believers could engage in worship with energy and freedom.
Ten years later, its impact shows no signs of fading. Worship teams still return to it when they want to lift the atmosphere, while new listeners continue to discover it through live moments and ongoing ministry. It remains a rare example of a song that has stayed relevant without losing its original heart.
“Real Love” was never crafted to chase trends or chart success. Its roots lie in a movement focused on awakening faith among young people, and that authenticity continues to set it apart. While many songs come and go, few manage to carry the same enduring sense of purpose.
Alexander Pappas has since gone on to shape the worship landscape in many ways, but this track remains a defining part of his journey and of Hillsong Young & Free’s legacy. Its message has remained steady across the years, reminding listeners of a love that endures when everything else falls away.
Reaching the ten-year mark, “Real Love” stands as more than a nostalgic favourite. It remains a living anthem, continuing to invite new generations into an encounter with a love that does not fade.
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