Steven Curtis Chapman (born November 21, 1962 in Paducah, Kentucky, U.S.) is a Contemporary Christian musician.

After starting his career in the late 80s as a songwriter, Chapman has turned into one of the most prolific singers in the genre, releasing more than 20 albums to this date. As of 2007, he has sold more than 10 million albums and has 9 gold and platinum albums. Chapman has also won five Grammy awards and 51 Gospel Music Association Awards, more than any other artist in history.

Death of youngest daughter

Chapman's five-year-old daughter, Maria Sue Chapman, was killed in a tragic accident on May 21, 2008.Maria was accidentally hit by her older brother Will, driving a Toyota Land Cruiser pulling into the driveway of their home in Franklin, Tennessee after coming home from a play audtition, according to Tennessee Department of Safety spokesman Mike Browning. Maria was pronounced dead upon arrival to the hospital.

The entire family was preparing to celebrate their eldest son Caleb's graduation from high school and their daughter's engagement just hours before the accident. A spokesman for the Tennessee Highway Patrol termed it "a terrible accident," and no charges were filed.

Maria was the youngest in the family, and one of three daughters adopted from China by Steven and his wife, Mary Beth. During the memorial service for Maria, in which Pastor Scotty Smith preached, the family expressed their faith in God and their love for each other.

In the aftermath of the tragedy, the Chapman family began to speak publicly about their loss and the role that faith played in it all. They appeared on Good Morning America, Larry King Live and in People magazine. Maria was buried in her flower girl dress as she along with Stevie Joy was going to be a Flower Girl in Emily's wedding in October.

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