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The Metaphysical Minute

Holy Hip Hop’s Civil War

Written by Wut Metaphysical

Monday, 03 March 2008

Photo by Jonathon D. Colman

As well all know, hip hop is no stranger to war. A quick walk downtown and you face hundreds of fliers promoting hip hop “battles” of some sort or graffiti burners one-upping each other spread over the most visible areas. The top hip hop artists all have well known beefs with each other. Their songs are dedicated to it, their albums are dedicated to it, and seemingly most of the media attention in hip hop is over their beef or lyric wars. So, it’s not surprising that Holy Hip Hop is engaged in its own war. What is surprising, though, is what the war is over. It’s not a war against spiritual powers and principalities, injustice, false teachings, or any other Biblical enemies; it’s a war between the Christian artists themselves; a civil war.

There are two states under the union of Holy Hip Hop. One, the conservative state, argues the main purpose of Holy Hip Hop should be to glorify God, to preach, or to proselytize non-believers. Anything short of blatantly Christian lyrics is unacceptable to them as a misappropriation of the genre’s music. The other, the more artistic state, argues the main purpose of their music (and all music) is to express one’s self artistically and creatively regardless of the subject matter, and because they are Christians, the music subsequently falls into the category of Holy Hip Hop. Anything short of original, intensely riddled lyricism is a weaker form of music and therefore inappropriate for the intensely creative nature of hip hop. Both states have taken up arms and both have fired.

As an observer and a participant, I’ve noticed most of the lyrical attacks originate with the side of Holy Hip Hop focused centrally on spiritual lyrics; the “more Christian” side. This is a paradox because attacks on fellow Christians isn’t something normally considered spiritual, but nevertheless the general sentiment seems to be that lyrics not idiomatically Christian are out of place in Holy Hip Hop. And yes, I can see how this can be true in many cases. I won’t waste time mentioning any number of clearly non-Christians artists who use God as a popularity card in their music. We know about them already. Or, many times you hear artists who walk in the realms of Holy Hip Hop, but nobody would ever be able to tell if they were Christians, in lyric or life. I would agree some of these artists may be out of place; as we all know; growing up in a Christian family or going to Church does not make you a Christian. Just as going to church and rapping does not make you a Christian emcee. But, is it really worth all the disunity in our genre to battle over the way we express ourselves?

Sup the Chemist featured on “Hear Me Now” by Peace 586 draws his weapon in defense. “I hear fools speakin/ Yo Sup ain't reaching lost souls/ Well y'all ain't either cause ain't nothing but Christians at your shows/ So we all equal”. The line explains the common focus of the civil war. One side states that Holy Hip Hop is here to minister to the church and Christians. The other side aims at ministry to one’s self, artistry, and life in general. The first argue that the latter do not reach the world with their music, the latter argue the prior don’t reach the world either because their lyrics are too “Christian” for anyone in the world to want to hear them.

Cross Movement

One of the most vocal groups on this subject would have to be Cross Movement, who has many songs and in some cases, almost entire albums on the subject themselves. “I don’t mean no harm, but I’ll bet the farm/ some put the weight of the mission on skill and charm/ And they get iller than all, their killing evolves/ But with no alarm, CM will remain calm/ Lord how long the wait, cause this is a long debate/ Neither side wants to prolong the hate/ They say we reach the church and they reach the streets/ But can’t find an in or out of season to preach/ And there’s only two, but you kept the charge the same/ The harvest is ready, but the workers lame/ I say we reach the church and we reach the streets/ And some don’t believe and I’ll catch the heat/ But we’ll take the lash, word bond/ But they’d be surprised if they knew who was ringing the horn/ But ain’t no beef, cause we all still fam/ I’m gonna shut my teeth and not give the enemy a chance/ But just know this, this is our only main stance/ Trust the wisdom of God and not the stratz of man” –Cross Movement on the song “If Not Of.”

The ironic nature of lyrics like these is that the focus of the song is correcting Christian emcees by trying to tell them to speak more about Christ in their music, but by writing a verse on that topic, the artist is not actually writing about Christ in their music either. The song then becomes a theological argument on how to evangelize or a commentary on what Christians should write about in their own songs. I find it slightly hypocritical to tell someone to “reach the church and… reach the streets” when in saying so you are doing neither.

The Christian hip hop market seems to have a voracious appetite for songs filled to the brim with Christian doctrine and preachy-church style lyrics. For many Christians, these songs are well met and encouraging. But, trouble brews when instead of good songs and artists, a lot of terrible, musically weak songs and artists get high praises (and even awards) because of their religious content and not because of talent and innovation. Over time this has cast a huge shadow over Holy Hip Hop and diluted the genre in the eyes of musicians and listeners alike. Now that artist after artist has passed through the gates of popularity based on religious content and not talent, our sect has taken on the aura of not passionate but weak, not talented but cheesy, not truthful but derived, and not creative but monotonous.

P.O.D.

On of the most ironic conversations I had on this subject was with a very enthusiastic minister friend of mine in regard to the band P.O.D. My minister friend had a staunch dislike, almost hatred, of the band and agued unceasingly that they are an ungodly group bent on self-glorification and image worship. His opinion was so intense, any time I ever mentioned the band or the band ever even happened to pass through his mental vision, he would begin the argument over. I always held that the band was not only God glorifying, but one of the greatest encouragements to my faith when I was a young Christian. The last time we ever debated the subject my minister friend took me to his computer to look up the group’s lyrics. The first lyric he found was from a song called “Lie Down.” I remember him reading the first few lyrics, “’I lay down, I sleep, when I wake, sustain me.’ What IS this? This clearly does NOT glorify God!” he said shaking his head with a look of disgust. His clear assumption was that because the line did not contain the name Jesus or the word “God,” or because it did not contain some sort of evangelistic purpose, it was non-Christian. That’s when I broke it to him that the particular portion of the song he read was a direct quote from the Bible (Psalm 3:5) “I laid me down and slept; I awaked; for the LORD sustained me.” KJV. I’ll never forget the look on his face when I asked him if he had a problem with the Bible. The subject was never brought up again.

I believe this argument applies particularly in the matter of Holy Hip Hop as well. The Bible is a book full of poetry and parables. King David did not sit down and write the same straight forward, utilitarian psalm over and over. The psalms rarely hold actual doctrine, but are actual songs and poems. The word “psalm” comes from the Greek “psalmoi” and originally meant “songs sung to a harp”. Psalms often are full of vivid detail and deep parallels not meant to be understood at face value. A basic read will reveal that many psalms are less focused on God as much as they are focused on the life of the writer. Ironically, some psalms reach into the subject realms of what many Christians artists would condemn as unchristian; such as the death of the writers enemies (Pslam 58) or the murder of their children (Psalm 137). Unfortunately, in this regard, secular hip hop artists are more paralleled Biblically than most Christian artists. In fact, the Bible is full of taboo subjects most Holy Hip Hop artists would never even dream about putting in their songs.

This approach to expression is not limited to the Old Testament. Jesus himself spoke in parables. Frequently, the disciples or other listeners had almost NO idea what Jesus was talking about. The subject matter was simply too deep or too hard to grasp. Some of Jesus’ expressions and parables were so difficult, many of his followers turned away after they heard them (John 6). Was this artistic expression? Well, I’m not haughty enough to say yes, but I can say Jesus was not always blasting out straight forward religious doctrine. This is one of the very things that makes Him so alluring when you read His words.

Some complain that many Christian artists have songs, or even whole CDs, that rarely or never even mention God. They argue that if there is “no good news on your album/ then you're in the wrong genre” (Cross Movement on the song “On the Move”). I have to disagree. The Bible books of Esther and Song of Solomon do not even mention God! Should they be removed from the Biblical cannon? They don’t mention the good news. The books of Ruth, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Ezra, and Nehemiah mention God but have no direct words from God. Should those be ripped out of the Bible and placed into a different section of the book store? Of course not, this is ridiculous. In the same way, saying that a Christian artist must mention the gospel in their album to be considered Holy Hip Hop is ridiculous and unbiblical itself.

One of Christian hip hop’s heavy hitting groups to face criticism in this way is Deep Space 5. These emcees and DJs are heavily lyrical and therefore deeply metaphorical and poetic. Some have criticized them as less spiritual or more secular. Sintax rebuts this in the song “Crumb”, “I speak in brief words / this Grief Observed / and make rap something more than just vanity slurs / I make calamity yours / because you just keep dissin' how we minister the gospel / and it's clear you ain't listenin' to Deepspace 5 / spittin' for all the people who don't want to be spoon-fed their meal / you call it keepin' it real / ya'll tellin' a plain story / while we're breaking our backs to bear the full Weight of Glory / you see The Problem of Pain is Chiefly on Prayer / and my Letters to Malcolm they all vanished in thin air / famished and bone bare we suffer for lack of knowledge / we mistake godly wisdom for going to state college / paying petty homage and speaking His Name clear / even Christ mailed his words in a mystery that you can hear / the puzzle may speak a subtle socratic method / answered every question with a question (no question)…” Not only is this song laced with the titles of many of modern Christendom’s apologetical works, it’s a comprehensive argument against straight forward, bare naked gospel preaching in Holy Hip Hop, diminishing it as “spoon fed”.

Deepspace5

I don’t so much mind this response by Sintax, he was just defending himself, but the argument is so unfounded I wish he wouldn’t even have wasted his talent on a response. The truth is, the members of Deep Space 5 are Christians. A few of them I have met and even prayed with. I can at least speak for the ones I’ve met and say they are strong Christians. Their music is so encouraging and poetic in nature, I really wouldn’t mind if they paid no attention to the critics and just came forth with the realness that makes their crew as dope as they are. In the same way I wish heaving hitting crews like Cross Movement would drop the civil war rhetoric and focus more on their intensely Christian doctrine riddled music. Because, frankly, they are masters of bringing the basics of our faith without coming completely cheesy, which takes a lot of talent.

So who is right? Is it the artists who focus so much on the gospel that they can’t seem to get a lyric out of their mouth without the name “Jesus” in it or the artists who express all aspects of their life and art in a song and rarely directly hit you with a “get saved” or “praise God” message? The truth is… both. Both are right. The hardcore spiritual speaker is right because there is a need for spiritual encouragement and edification. There is a need for scriptures all over the lyrics and Jesus all over the tongue. Some people get the gospel this way and so it is evangelistic (although hopefully their Christian leaders have the sense to get them directly in the Bible). The artist is speaking what is on their heart so it is a good thing. Likewise, the Christian artist who branches all over the place in his creative songwriting is right too. Though he or she may not spit lyrics that sound like the book of Romans set to rhyme, there is a time and place for songs about life, relationships, injustice, good times, or just wordplay or whatever. Just like in the Bible there are places for speaking on subjects not directly related to doctrine and salvation. It is also good.

But, the war over who is right in Holy Hip Hop, in my opinion, is not so good. This is a waste of good bars. Let’s glorify God not only in lyric but in life by dropping the squabble and putting our hearts and minds into fellowship, unity, and our music. This would not only create a greater testimony but it would develop a more pure art form, full of talent, that rises above the world in action and creativity. Let’s stop the civil war.

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John Robinson said:

This "debate" has bothered me for some time now, because I don't see how many can't see that both sides serve the same purpose, just a different way. I first got into gospel or christian hip hop with S.F.C., P.I.D., Apocalypse and so on. back then, everybody was coming pretty much straight from the bible. I was a young Christian back then, and really liked the "preachy" rap. It helped me grow in my spiritual walk, and it gave me an alternative to LL cool J and Run DMC. I now attend a multicultural church, and our Church mission is to be a crossing point where diverse people become devoted Christ followers...In other words, a bridge. THAT is how I look at Sev static, Playdough, sintax, tunnel rats and others. They can be (and are) a bridge to people who wouldn't ever listen to Trip Lee, or CM, or Flame. I've had many, many people come up my driveway while I was detailing my truck, asking me what I was listening to...most of the time, it's Mars ILL, or Playdough, or TR'Z. this gives me a chance to open up conversation about Christ. Both sides of this issue are valid, and serve a purpose. I listen to artists on both sides of this issue, and it's sad that there is a "civil war".

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June 01, 2008
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DOCWATSON said:

I am not one to discuss these topics outwardly becuae of the way people like to draw lines. I will say that I have seen it myself. I believe there are different genres inside of our culture. There is a standard that has to be met to be a Christian artist. One does not fall into a catagory by accident. If a rapper is a Christian rapper then that is what he/she is and the goal should be obvious. The goal is to perserve the church, reach outside the church and bring testimony. I know we can add a whole lot more, but basically it is bring God to the people. If your rapping for the church than that is what God called you to do..If your rapping the work to the streets than that is what you are to do. Everyone gets so caught up on what they think is correct, but where is God in all this? I do not think there is a civil war but a change. I think the music is growing into new ministries and reaching further. With that being said the devil is going to try to break our unity. I know that some take this music a little to far..we have to real them in, but the bottom line is we need to reach the streets, we need to keep our youth in the church strong, and we need to remember that the music is not about our own image but Jesus's image. I really do not know how else to say it..

God bless
Doc

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May 23, 2008 | url
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Crusader918 said:

It is very important that Christian rappers that profess the Gospel, live it as well. We are in the last days people...IMHO, I truly believe, there is no time for "Soft" or "Fence-sitting" Gospel or Christian Rap..We were created to praise HIM! Not ourselves!!!

Now, while I believe that CMR shouldn't be the ultimate standard or all Christian rap artists (God and Jesus Christ should be the standard of all doctrine), CMR and other artists out there that speak of a conservative Christian rap doctrine only request that the fence sitters and the Neutral Christian rap artists need to FULLY embrace The Gospel of Jesus Christ's life, death and resurrection...what's wrong with that?

One of the great prophets in the Old Testament said "Chose ye this day, who you will serve...". God also said in Isaiah..."I will not yield My glory to another..."

I implore all those rappers who profess Christ to be Lord and Savior of their lives to stop creating "Neutral" rap songs in order to satisfy the neutral crowd...

Just one Christian man's opinion.

Peace and God Bless

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May 05, 2008
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Matt C said:

	Rappers should not be classified as Holy Hip Artists if their music is not christianlike. Some rappers call themselves holy hip hop artists whose lyrics don't contain christian lyrics aren't really christian rappers.
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April 15, 2008
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intense said:

yeah, i have actually been on both sides of the debate. but i have concluded that there is unity in diversity. as long as a person is not promoting sin and rebeling against God i do not see the problem. We have to remember that there is one body and many parts. It would be something else if the hand got made at the foot because it was not able to pick things up or grab things correctly. I think that is the good thing about holy hip hop or life music. It is so broad and diverse. sometimes i honestly dont feel like hearing theologically deep songs. I just want to hear stuff that i can relate to. Then again sometimes i need to be feed some spiritually deep concepts so i can better my walk with Christ...I think as a body we should see the value in everyones gifts and bring it all together.......

Dueces

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April 15, 2008 | url
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dino said:

why do we fall into the trap of division the enemy sets? if who ever aint your cup of tea, dont buy it. we should be lifting each other up, praying for each other and understand that people are at different levels spiritually.

heck im sure a lot of the rappers that dont say Jesus but consider themselves christian dont even have a good church home that teaches the word. they just doing what they know and what they believe to be right in the eyesight of GOD. we should pray for them and believe that GOD would draw them closer.

if such and such dont say Jesus and it's good clean music, it should not be a problem. just accept it as it is (good clean christian entertainment) and pray for the fellow. the same folk dissing who ever for not being Jesus Jesus Jesus in their raps will take their righteous tails to a secular movie and enjoy it or watch some secular tv and enjoy it. aint that backwards? "i diss such and such for being a christian rapper who has clean raps not necessarily saying GOD all the time, but i love that secular movie or tv show!"

bottom line, if you feel such and such aint up to par, they dont say jesus enough, pray for them. it's your duty. the problem GOD allow you is the one HE wants you to pray for.

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April 11, 2008
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God'sMan said:

As a spirit filled believer, I don't depend or look to HHH to 'hear a word from the Lord, or instruct me on?well anything.? It?s great to hear a cd that edifies my spirit, unlike most of the secular garbage out their. And it?s good to sing & make melody in my heart unto the Lord w/ Christian music too.

I would like to remind everyone of the fact that the gospel has the power to bring ppl to salvation, not the music. If you survey ppl who listen to HHH, how many get saved bc of the music? Probably not many. Reaching the lost world is in giving the gospel & how we live our lives, not just bc we can rap & put Christ's name in their.

I think Christian artists should overtly speak of God at least sometimes in their music. If an artist does not do that, then to me that artist just happens to be a Christian, not a Christian artist. I appreciate some of those types of artist too (i.e. Switchfoot).

If an artist who happens to be a Christian wants to sing/rap about things that aren't conflicting with God, or don't make Christ look bad, then that's fine too (i.e. Switchfoot). It?s the heart of the message, & how it?s delivered.

As far as calling ppl out, CM didn?t speak out against a particular artist or group to my knowledge & I?ve followed them since Heavens Mentality. I did notice a major shift in their lyrics from Christ to pro Hip Hop (that?s another subject).

Next, w/ Sup The Chemist, I heard a few songs featuring him years ago & saw a documentary w/ him as one of the guests speaking there. It did absolutely nothing for me. Just that name Sup The Chemist make me not wanna think twice about listening to him. If somebody else likes him, hey to each his own.

When it comes to artists calling other artists out, that's ok. Ppl are ppl, rather their well known or not. In the scriptures Paul called out may ppl. As long as things are done properly I'm not tripping

Music is not my pastor, my God, or anything close to that, nor should it be anyone else's. Let?s keep this thing in perspective. It's just music folks, why make it anymore than that.

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April 01, 2008
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Crosseyes said:

All I can say is this, don't be fooled by familiar spirits. If the Holy Spirit had fueled this article then there would have been no reference to a civil war (CM never called out any names, as a matter of fact no Christian artist has). Congratulations on being the first. Instead the author of this article did exactly what the secular media did in the Biggie/Tupac fued. He or she took advantage of the carnal nature of the readers, the nature that has a lust for blood and conflict, and promoted it for selfish gains while in the process creating a riff in something as minor as a difference in the application of the Gospel. And the readers ate it up with statements like "this is the best HHH article that I've read". Christian people don't be so foolish. Study the Word of God and pray so that you can see the false prophets and familiar spirit and discern what is the Will of God and what is not. The devil will come as an angel of light. Therefore, just because someone mentions that they are a Christian doesn't mean that we should take what they say, or in this case what they write, as God's Will. Tell me, what is the difference between what CM is doing and what the pastor at a church does when the Holy Spirit prompts him to speak on being bold as Christians and preaching the gospel in and out of season. I know that I've heard that sermon many times and never did I get offended, even when it pertained to me. Nor would the Holy Spirit prompt an attack on CM or any other MC that raps the uncut Gospel. I've read some of the comments here and most of you are easily decieved. We cannot afford to think like those who are dead in their sins. In other words, He is coming back soon and that is the way we should approach this thing. Christian people don't believe the hype. Christ will return soon and we as the Body of Christ are responsible for reaching out to any and all that will listen. Therefore, we do not have the time to preach a watered down gospel. Give them the Gospel and don't be ashamed. Now for the writer of the article to compare the book of Ruth with CM and artist like them is unnerving. The Bible is the Bible. We are the Body of Christ. We were commissioned by Jesus Christ himself to preach the same un-cut Gospel that Paul, James, Peter, etc. preached. They preached Jesus un-cut, not "This is what I did before I got saved". To do that is to put the focus on you and not him. What happened to being sold out for Christ? I agree that there is a difference in approach since all don't have the same gifts but our jobs as his people is minister first and rapper second. Not rapper first, minister maybe.

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April 01, 2008
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Somethin' Fishy said:

I believe there is a lack of definition for the genre. Holy Hip Hop seems to be in civil war because it has groups with different opinions about what they should do to fit into the genre. I believe that one could be a Christian and an emcee, or one could be a Christian emcee that makes music for the Christian hip hop genre.

If you are a Christian and an emcee, you could be making music about your life, having fun with words, or just expressing yourself artistically. I do not believe that this kind of music fits into the Christian hip hop genre.

If you are a Christian emcee, who makes music for the Christian hip hop genre, I believe you should have topics relating to Christianity in your songs. If you do not, I do not think you should be categorized into Christian hip hop.

I would say that both kinds of music are necessary. An emcee that is Christian would make music refreshingly clean and easy to listen to (for Christians and unbelievers). It would not be preachy to unbelievers, possibly making Christianity more acceptable. Christians might not want to listen to something that is overly preachy or perhaps addressed to someone else, while wanting to listen to 'clean' music. A Christian emcee would be necessary to provide "spiritual encouragement and edification" to other Christians, and possibly act as a evangelical tool to unbelievers.

A group with Christian members does not make their music Christian and does not - well, should not - place their music in the Christian music genre, unless I am mistaken.

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March 31, 2008
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ADVICATEGRL said:

There are three types of MC's. Secular (which we're not discussing), Gospel Hip-Hop, and Christian MC's. There is a difference between the two. The first, Gospel Hip-Hop uses the scripture of God to teach, preach, and evangelize. If If there is no Gospel in your rhyme, then you are an MC who is a Christian and not the other way around. There is no justification. No word of God= No truth. Straight up. I mean, really...Just because Kanye says "Jesus walks...God show me the way because the Devil trying to break me down"...does that mean that he is gospel hip-hop? Absolutely NOT. But we pray for his walk. The Word is true and uncompromising. Every MC has to ask him/herself, "What am I putting in the atmosphere?" If my spiritual gift of Hip-Hop is not edifying the Kingdom of God and utilizing spoken sword, do I deserve to call myself Gospel Hip-Hop? Each man has to reconcile his own conscience. If there is no Christ in your rhymes, who are you representing? Wishing you peace and salvation.

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March 27, 2008
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Nhexsoul said:

DS5, Lightheaded, TRz, Cross Movement, Lecrae, etc ARE BOTH spreading the gospel and have dope skills. Remember, we were not born saved. We all have fallen short of the glory. Some drop bars on His holy word and some on their experiences which led to them devoting themselves to Christ. I am a Heavy hip hop(music period) head and have rhymed, battled, etc for years. Having faith, but not really being heavy into the church, albums from all these Mcees have satisfied my taste for intricate sixteens, ill beats, food for the soul and ammunition to walk through the world while maintaining my faith.

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March 24, 2008
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SEV STATIK said:

wut. good article. i've had this conversation many times and have written 1000 bars for it. i wouldn't say we've "wasted" the bars we wrote on this topic. if that was the case i guess this article would be a waste as well. expression is a good thing. I mean, it IS a topic to be discussed and thought out. One thing i find kinda odd is that people always put DS5 or even Tunnel Rats on the oppossite end of the spectrum from Cross Movement. That bothers me to an extent because I think TRs and DS5 offer such a well balanced message to reach the lost and feed the Body of Christ at the same time. It kinda makes us look like the rebels inside ministry when heads describe us "not so preachy". I think CM does a great job at reaching the street and the church as well. what's not for the church is for the streets and vice versa. also, i think some fans (of both groups) fan the flames even more on msg boards with their opinions on music they haven't really listened to. i KNOW for a fact there's heads out there commenting on DS5 and TR's that haven't really listened to our music and are spraying opinions based on other opinions they've read about us. so all this feeds the fire of this topic and makes it grow. i know a few of us have met up w/ CM at events and we've always shared respect and support for each other like brothers should.

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March 19, 2008 | url
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Re:Flex the Architect (Scribbling Idiots) said:

	Great article, bro. You said what the majority of us were thinking.
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March 15, 2008 | url
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big phil said:

What I believe it all boils down to is this;well we know the word says in proverbs that the power of life and death is in the toungue,so speak life...right?only two things come out our mouths life and death.So does what we rap about pushes us away from God (death means also seperation from God) which is what most secular music does,or is it bringing us closer,is it edifying us?.Also God is not the author of confusion,if someone unsaved had two unmarked cds one christian,the other being secular and played them back to back would they be able to tell the difference?

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March 13, 2008 | url
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d-live-rinse said:

I believe that when we as disciples of Christ use our gifts to communicate a message we should use it to promote the gospel and the lifestyle change that takes place after redemption. We are ministers in that space because the attention is centered on what we are saying or doing. We are obligated present Christ at that given moment.Our lifestyles should line up afterwards without question. The gospel sets us apart from the world. Grace and Peace

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March 13, 2008 | url
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Victorious7 said:

	{Love will see us through} ~V7 & The Kingdom of Heaven~ 1 Corinthians 13
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March 13, 2008 | url
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Erik Zero said:

	Bro, u hit the nail on the head with this article. The division in Christian hip hop has bothered me for years. I believe that Christian hip hop has the potential to be tremendously more effective if each side of the spectrum would realize that the different approaches to expressing our faith are equally valid. As the article says not all rappers have the same gifts.
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March 10, 2008
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Dany V said:

I must say that i have some repenting to do towards some christian artist, i'm the type of dude who feels the more word based hip hop,being a person who is more into the word and a Youth leader but lets all realise that we all need what appeals to our spirit...This hating is just not needed in this already divided Kingdom of Christ...I challenge both parties of this movement to write something positive to the opposite camp in a true display of character..."OOhh how hard it is to Love those who are skilled in your area of lack?"Dany V

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March 10, 2008
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Enoch "Tha General" Shisso said:

I've always disliked artist that don't mention God because they weren't front line rappers and I thought they sugarcoated the message. The truth is though, they're just spitting what is true to them. I rap and was thinking of learning doctrine so I could put that all in my raps like the cross movement but for what? I mean yeah, I'm gonna learn doctrine, but as far as in my raps, I'm gonna spit what I know and what God speaks to me and I'ma express my talents and if i can't reach the lost that way, then it's no biggie because I'll be in the streets or somewhere else sharing the truth with my words or my lifestyle. So thanks, this is very true.

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March 09, 2008
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Voyce said:

One thing i will say is that everyone was not given the same gift, the same way to deliver that gift, the same life experiences, or the same call from God. I have learned that there is a spectrum for Christian rap. A song that may reach you may not reach me, and vise versa. Once we realize that we need to really work together as artist cause if we do it for the right motives, its all for the kingdom. People are always looking from the outside in, and if I see a fight going on, why would I ever want to be a part. I pray that this doesn't just remain an article but something that artist and listeners of holy hip hop will take heed to. Bless all yall man

Jon,
www.purposewithchrist.com
www.myspace.com/voyceoftwa

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March 06, 2008
Votes: +2

DJ Digital Josh said:

In everything we do, we must obey God, then obey our Earthly Leaders, & last but not least show a little respect toward others. 1 Peter 2:13-18 basically. I think showing respect towards others is very hard to do when they have no respect for you, but try hard. I'm a CD DJ, and I've been dissed several times by sinners and saints but I keep spreading the Good News as best as I can. The music I spin may not all be super Holy, but I try and make sure it ALL follows 1 Peter 2:13-18 but I'm sure it still offends some, but I still try and not offend them.
Peace, God Bless, Praise The Lord, & Keep The Faith!
www.djdigitaljosh.com

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March 06, 2008
Votes: -1

dj91 said:

	Well said man. This article is sure to change the minds of people who either listen to holy hip hop or to those who actually are involved in making it. I know it changed mine.
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March 06, 2008
Votes: +1

Eduardo said:

	Wut, you hit the nail in the coffin man. We got different groups who go about their ministry in a different way. People should just respect each other and go about bringing a sense of unity to hip hop. I look forward to your album!
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March 05, 2008
Votes: +1

Legacy said:

I should be both. Read Exodus 35:30-35 - God gave them SKILLS to create for him and said they should be holy unto Him. So, we need both.

Would you buy a CD (mp3) of an artist who was super-skilled and not so lacked the evidence of Christ, or Super-spiritual and cheesy?

Neither!!!!! You want skills, production, and an authentic Christ-like life expressed in their music.

I run a recording and production studio in Tampa, FL (LEG UP MUSIC, LLC)
**plug, plug, plug**

and I hear BOTH sides of this thing. Honestly, this is the illest article ever on the subject. I have always felt like both are needed. It's vital that we walk in a clear conscience and an authentic faith where God is continually changing us. This takes place on the inside and works its way out. It's shameful to think that everyone somehow would look the same and sound the same as the next. As I grow more and more in my walk with God I know He is using both sides and they are both authentic. I can only be me, you can only be you - just do it with a clear conscience and you'll be pleasing to Him.

Just follow Christ, love people, and make the music you feel. Both sides are dope in my book!

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March 05, 2008
Votes: +0

Dirt said:

	That was a GREAT article Wut. I can't wait for the book. you are a an inspiring writer through and through.
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March 05, 2008
Votes: +1

JAMSTER aka Seraphim said:

Word is bond brother..i agree with you. But many listeners out of Holy Hip Hop when they listen to a Christian Rap song they are waiting to hear a "God" or another Godly word..
I believe too that as my brother in Christ SpeC told me when he came in Thessalonica (GREECE) that if u put a "Christian Rap" label @ your music then many people probably will stop @ the label and don't even listen to what you have to say on your raps..
But if you put only a "Hip Hop" label then like Krs-One,or Common or other respected artists you can speak about God without a "Christian" label @ your work and this doesn't ashamed God but helps the non-believer to listen more to your words without being guided by any labels..I believe SpeC' s right.
Many greetings from the land of the word "Psalms" which is in Greek "Psalmoi".
One Love from Thessalonica (GREECE)

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March 05, 2008
Votes: +1

BillyBo said:

	I was thinking the same as some others. If there were a hip-hop certification course, required reading should be this article. plug www.myspace.com/billybomusic www.myspace.com/innersessions
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March 05, 2008
Votes: +1

Wade-O said:

	Many people who have commented before me have said things I'd like to say. But I just want to thank you Wut for writing this and thank you to DJ Zilla for publishing this. This should be required reading for everyone involved in what we do. This division is really killing us. Cats need to make a decision that they are not going to attack thier fellow brothers and sisters in Christ.
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March 05, 2008
Votes: +1

holy ridaz said:

well said Wut...

as Christians we put entirely too much emphasis on phrases and titles..and we seem to fall into the "pharisee trap" we look to things and cations to define our Christianity rather than place emphasis on relationship with God through Jesus Christ...music is no different than workin in an office or sweepin the street...whatever it is we do as Christians should be done with a pure heart armed with the desire to Glorify God...scripture declares that whatever we do in word or deed should be done with that purpose in mind (col 3:15) It's time for everyone on both sides of the argument to wake up and realize that we are all one body...let's purpose to do what is right before God...agree that some might have different approaches and let's let God do His job of pruning and removing that which doesn't belong. After all the Bible declares

Who are you to pass judgment on the servant of another? It is before his own master[a] that he stands or falls. And he will be upheld, for the Lord is able to make him stand. -Rom 14:4

Our philosophy "eat the meat...spit out the bones!"

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March 04, 2008
Votes: +2

Wallos said:

I think part of the problem is that the music is put on too high of a pedestal. I don't see the music as a means of true ministry, because at the end of the day, that is the role of the church. I can't front, it concerns me that so many artists are compelled to say that they were called by God to "minister" through music. That assessment is based on their personal feelings. Have any of these artists attended a school or seminary? Are any of them pastors? My point is that ministry comes from preaching the Word of God/The Gospel in CHURCH, and should not be confined to a song. With that said, I think Chistian hip hop is a wonderful platform for Christian artistic expression. Whether it blatantly focuses on doctrine, or not, it is still self expression. It's still reflects the heart and the mind of the Chirstian. There is room for both types....

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March 04, 2008
Votes: +1

eric said:

(summary version )
in my opinion ther are 2 types of Holy hiphop ----1.HOLY hip hop lyrics based on ones life encounters to be able to reach and edify others who are probably going through or can relate to the song being rapped or sung. The youth need role models that can let them know that there is a hope and a future for them.----2. Holy hip hop that gives GOD glory and praise (worship hiphop)Now wen ever there is controversy we must go and see wat the bible says because every one has there opinion but what does TRUTH say ?
The bible states we are to preach the GOSPILL , it does not say there is only one way to do it (preaching, music etc..). We are to edify, build up and to love etc... anything contrary to the word is not to be done.

eric
jammin4gsus Inc.
www.jammin4gsus.org

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March 04, 2008
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KDHanson said:

This is an issue I've wished we could address so often, but as just a listener with no connects to the industry all I can really do is pray. Obviously there will always be disagreements within the church, but our challenge as believers is to keep them from turning into divisions.

I love the scriptural references and lyrical proof. Hopefully no offense is taken by either "camp" and both sides just get something to take to the Lord. In the meantime, let's focus on the one point we can all agree on - trying to keep that music tiiight. Aight y'all,

1Cor 9:22

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March 04, 2008
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JHollis said:

Yo! I'm white and in this thing called Holy Hip-Hop and I really want to put in my statement. I have been listenting to hip-hop from the beginning with Sugar Hill, Flash etc. So, when Holy Hip-Hop started in 1984 to now it hasn't changed specifically and you know why? Let's see what the good book says, Eph 4:7-16 It says this and we need to see and believe this, Christ gave the special gift of grace to everyone showing how generous He is...a few verses later it says that He gave some the gifts of Apostles, Prophets, some to go tell the Good News, and some to have the work of caring for and teaching God's people. Christ gave those gifts to prepare God's Holy People for the work of SERVING to make the body of Christ stronger. This work must continue until we are all joined together in the same faith and in the same knowledge of the Son of God. We must become like a mature person, growing until we become like Christ and have His perfection...a few verses down still: Each part does it's own work to make the whole body grow to be strong with LOVE. That's it everybody! We want to see the body of Christ unified then please can we lay down the denominational issues with each other and just come together believing the facts, Jesus came to save us and died for our sins and rose again..if we can believe together on those facts then we should come together because we are making glorifying art to our King for HIS Kingdom are we not? If we want to talk about scripture cool...if we don't cool...it's not what we want each other to talk about it's what God has placed upon our hearts to convey a message to this dying generation coming up behind us! This is the mission it's real simple: Save Souls

Kingdom Business is all that matters now! I have sold alot of your records out there and praise God that we have been successful with conversions in the faith and people coming to know the Lord but, it's time to unite as an army for the Kingdom and stop playing games.

In Him,

Jason Hollis
Kingdom Man 1st, Business 2nd

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March 04, 2008
Votes: +0

khaled said:

This is just a replay of rock and roll in the late 60's early 70's when the JESUS PEOPLE started bringing guitars to church and the whole church flipped on all sides and denominations. but here we are 30 some odd years later and its barely even an after thought. It sucks we got to go through this again. we probably will in another thirty years. In any case both sides of the line got some dope music.

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March 04, 2008
Votes: +1

Lyrycyst said:

	This is one of the greatest articles that I have read since being tuned on to rapzilla. I think all of us artists need to hear this before we criticise each others artistic expression and ministry. Lyrycyst www.lyrycystmusic.com www.myspace.com/lyrycyst
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March 04, 2008
Votes: +1

Trey said:

I'm one of the founding members of the Tunnel Rats (no longer a member), and I have always loved the Cross Movement. I own every one of their cds. They have been greatly encouraging to me. I also own every Tunnel Rat and DeepSpace 5 record. the quality and skill is superb. This article sums up my thoughts on the matter for many many years. My record label, End Of Earth Records contains artists from both sides of this "civil war". We are doing our part to bring unity. Thanks for the article Wut!!

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March 04, 2008
Votes: +0

Josh / plastic said:

I've been saying this for the last 3 years or so... would "unity" be created if everyone just did a song? Or would that just be another song? Would things be "better" if everyone took a picture? Seriously?

Here's the deal (speaking from over 10 years of perspective on this issue)...

It wasn't until the issue being debated into the ground and groups being drawn into the debate (my favorite artists/preference vs. yours) that it became an issue. Were differing ideas and philosophies of ministry present? Of course. But the drama started when different callings were looked down upon because it didn't meet some sort of "rule" or "quota".

The perception become that those who weren't packing their songs with the familiar church words that Christians are familiar with were somehow ashamed of Jesus and thus were "compromising" or falling short. Not true! They were simply following a different calling and delivering their music differently.

I'll be honest... I see pride amongst folks on either side. It's just that some get a free pass because they rhyme about safer stuff. All the while being just as foul as those who don't rap 3 part sermons.

Anymore I don't worry about it because it's a distraction to me. It creates opportunities to hurt people and few opportunities to understand different points of view. Knowing so many and dealing with so many different artists has helped me to understand that while methods are different, they all love Jesus and they all (like everyone) fall short of His perfection.

Nobody has to like a different way of doing this hip-hop we all love but you ought to give it a fair shake. Stylistically speaking and also in regards to how it is presented.

What we often miss is how GOD reaches people. He doesn't need us. We're just blessed to be a part of His plan. God is reaching that kid who only listens to backpacker rap much like he's also reaching a rebellious pastors son who only knows the best selling artists in our genre. He is also reaching a girl at a bar throwing bows during a believers set.

Finding that perspective really helped bring it into focus. I spent so much time debating on it and at the end of the day it really didn't matter. Now it makes sense. God has blessed us with so much variety that almost any person can be reached right where they are. Now I pray for ready, willing and prepared servants. God bless. Thanks for writing this Wut!

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March 04, 2008
Votes: +5

FUDGE said:

This is a touchy subject, it seems, within this genre. Many factors divide the artists.

- We have conservative Christians and liberal Christians.
- We have production-focused music and lyrical-focused rhymes.
- We have dozens of denominational views.
- We got East coast, West coast, South coast, Mid-West, etc.
- We have socio-economical barriers (White, Black, Suburbs, Urban, etc)
- We got Pastors devoting whole sermons against "Holy Hip Hop"
- We got Churches devoting whole ministries for the Hip Hop Culture
- We got labels, websites, writers, podcasts, radio selecting favorites
- We got a lost world of souls outside and inside the Churches
- We got rebelious spirits and submissive souls
- We got the same division in the genre as the rest of the Church's subgroups

So what do we all do? For one thing, no one will ever unite Holy Hip Hop, as well as, Catholics, Protestants, Messianic Jews, etc. The above factors are just a few things that will prevent it. God will judge the heart of man. All foolish and selfish acts will burn up, and rewards in heaven will come out of a pure heart and obedience to God's Word. Jesus Christ has to be Lord of your life.

So what does a listener do about all these options? You have to judge all things, spoken and in action, to God's Word. Thant's going to take the effort of the lister to DIG into the Word for themself to find the truth. There is no other way to find out what is good or bad in the Holy Hip Hop, or any Christian/Gospel genre.

As far as the artists, they got to work out their own salvation with fear and trembling. The Father loves you, Jesus saves you, the Holy Ghost teaches you. If that ain't happening in the Holy Hip Hopper, than they need to make it plain to their listeners, I AM NOT A CHRISTIAN RAPPER, just a rapper. Back in the 80s we had a term for those who fronted their image and pretended to be something they are not, "PERPETRATORS".

Look fam, I don't got it all together, but I know who my God is, and who I am in Christ. I had delusions of grandeur most of my young adult life, and in some case still do. But I am realistic in my view of the world. I try to see things as God does and see how small all of the petty things the world does, and even pettier things the Church does. The only time I saw Christ remotely complained was in the Garden, but he turned that around and followed the plan.

So "Can We All Just Get Along?", the answer is no, because of our human differences, but it's possible because of our spirital inheritance.

That's my 2 pennies!

Fudge, FlavorRadioNetwork.com

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March 04, 2008
Votes: +1

christopher mentalpatient said:

	great stuff to to read...thanks for the thoughts wut... love ya mon. K, bye
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March 04, 2008
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bnjmn said:

	Well said and well written. I too have met individuals on both sides of this issue. The most biblically based treatment that I have personally received after meeting artists in this movement has been from the one of the most maligned artists. My sentiments can be summed up in the song "Remember" by the Tunnel Rats(access them and it through my MySpace Top Friends at myspace.com/bnjmn) Peace, B
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March 04, 2008
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Loganrapz said:

Some christian lyrics hit harder than others, that is true. but truth, it all cant be the same. We need to stop yelling at each other. sometimes people like to have fun. Ever heard Redclouds "tapatio" doesnt speak about God, but its catchy. Thing is it will probably be listened to longer than a sermon that ryhmes. I've learned more from pigeon john then any other christian artist, Lecrae coming in second. Christians need to stop dissin each other, and try and reach the dying wichever way they feel they should. I

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March 04, 2008
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