Tuesday, May 20, 2008

Current State of Christian Hip Hop

May 20, 2008

I don't know how many Christians were former Hip-Hop heads, but the current state of Christian Hip-Hop (Holy Hip-Hop) is very promising.  I was one of those skeptical, "that crap is trash", impatient people who would not give it a chance until two years ago, one sweet day...

A friend of mine sent me two Cd's from a popular Christian label called Cross Movement Records.  I was shocked when I listened to the Cd's that not only were the beats tight, but there was a very potent spiritual message that was not hidden.  These guys were not ashamed of the gospel and further, were not ashamed to say "Jesus".  This was odd because my view of Christian Hip-Hop was folks that could not make it in the "industry" and wanted to make a little change on the side.  The T.R.U.T.H. and Flame quickly changed that view and I have been HOOKED ever since.  Since I was introduced I have discovered other labels (lamp mode, Reach Records) and artist that are sold out for Jesus also to name a few (by no means is this a comprehensive list!):
Da T.R.U.T.H., 
Flame,
The Cross Movement,
R-Swift,
Everyday Process,
Ambassador, Phanatik, The Tonic, Tru L.I.F.E., J.R. (R&B), Michelle Bonilla (latin), Lecrae, Trip Lee, Tedashii, Sho Baraka, Stephen the Levite, Muze One, Redeemed Thought, 116 Clique, J-Silas (J. Johnson), Japhai Life, K-Drama, Shai Linne,  & Timothy Brindle

Thank you all for being such lights in a world of darkness.

El Bee

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

This is so true! The skill level displayed in Christian rap and even the use of technology and strong beats/production has come a LONG way. There's definitely a recognition among gospel artists (like Kirk, Canton Jones...) to incorporate hot Christian hip-hop artists on their latest projects, which is good to see.

Anonymous said...

I am like the concept. Keep up the good work. I am not familiar with the artists you mentioned but, I know you know your stuff lil bro! Much love, Joel