Skillet's John Cooper on Backlash: 'I Thought Rock Was Non Conformist'

[@TraceVandal]

He is one of those guys who's singing voice sounds exactly like his speaking voice. Some people sound WAY different when they sing vs talk.

[@PreciousLettuce]

That's true. There are some phenomenal singers out there who sound like they can barely speak

[@sourgummyworms45]

I definitely hear that. This is my qdt time hearing him talk.

[@codelunaofficial]

That's funny, I was thinking exactly about that when watching the interview, cause usually you hear vocalists who got pretty high singing voice but sound different when they talk

[@Ancientscrolls-n2f]

ive been a huge fan since i heard alien youth album. rock on skillet

[@craighalvorson77]

@@Ancientscrolls-n2fI used to think that Invincible was their first album because I didn’t know anything about them back in ‘99-2000. But yeah…

[@realvonusaur]

These guys cruuush live, for no reason. Unbelievable energy and sound.

[@NGU7754]

I regret not seeing them live with my friend when I had the chance. It was 8 years ago.

[@kgSoloMan5k]

I agree! I saw them live at Frontier City in Oklahoma City with my church in like 2003-ish. Pillar was also there. Skillet is still one of my favorite Christian rock bands.

[@Alias3141]

Facts. Saw them at Welcome to Rockville one year just waiting for some other bands I was more interested in seeing. Left positively floored by their performance and despite finding their music kind of cringe, will always recommend their live shows.

[@williamjohnson7226]

I got to see them live, and I didn't expect them to sound so good cause not all bands sound as good live as they do in studio, but Skillet was such an amazing experience for my first concert I without a doubt would see them live again

[@hhaste]

@@NGU7754 They're still around, aren't they? Go see them now or whenever they tour again.

[@sporkpilot]

John rocks and lives his life as a true Christian. I'm so glad you 2 know each other. I first started paying attention to him after watching a couple interviews of him on this channel.

[@BTGLEE]

Love this interview. This man just got tons of my respect. He speaks truth.

[@Radowitzki]

Princess, please!

[@fredflintstone7245]

I had Vip Tickets, met the band , watched the show from center front board. One of the best shows I've ever seen. Really Awesome People ! Great Band! And Jen is Amazing !!!!

[@Lilmickcrocodiledundee0001]

The Rock/Metal community is the greatest community. Everyone gets along and some of the nicest people there is. I've worked security for Rock fest, country fest and rap, Metal fans are the more respectful, nice and willing to help anyone. Country people are a bunch of disrespectful, destroy stuff, fight and just rude. People never would expect that but ive seen year after year.

[@curtisrohling5852]

Define country people. You man country music fans or people that live in small towns and country. Cause if you mean the latter your way off sir

[@canyonproductions7683]

I love watching and playing both forms of music but I have seen more drunkenness and fights at Country shows

[@derekm424]

You know what man... I absolutely believe you 💯, don't worry, speaking the truth always frustrates some but I've been to a million metal shows and have seen the love. Never been to a country show but I can imagine the douche baggery... PS country music sucks

[@peterrhines1516]

spot on

[@jayking713]

Facts my sister in law was attacked at a Kane Brown concert

[@sanctifystudios]

Really glad you featured this interview... as a Christian and fan of both Christian Rock/Metal and Rock/Metal in general... its just nice to see some unbiased representation for an undeniably successful Rock band that also just so happens to hold Christian beliefs.

[@walpurgisnacht9234]

John is great. I wish more people could be as honest and forthright as he is. So many cowards these days. Especially in the rock and metal scene. God be with you John.

[@eddiecampbell3514]

Great interview man!! He's an awesome low down to earth kinda guy isn't full of himself and very kind mannered.. ❤

[@Moviefan2k4]

John is a great example of someone who loves God and Jesus, but also understands that you can't force anyone else to do the same. He uses his band's music as both entertainment and a ministry tool - I really respect him for it. I've been a Skillet fan since 2010, and I have all their CDs now. May God continue to bless this truly remarkable group.

[@uhhh_jerry]

I used to be a huge Skillet fan, but over time I broke out into other (and in my opinion, better) bands, but I will always respect them for never steering away who they truly are

[@jpslaym0936]

Their earlier albums were better songs, more unique and melodic

[@andrewvasquez7872]

@@jpslaym0936 right? Not to mention this was before Cooper became a rightwing flagbearer. It seemed like as the beard grew longer the guy got crazier.

[@trfmusic902]

I never was a Skillet fan but do respect them.

[@saturn5087]

@@SingByDeath people have their own definition of right and wrong and it doesn't really make sense to go after people for their opinions

[@AirRedbox]

@@andrewvasquez7872here’s a classic for you. “Facts don’t care about your feelings”. Learn to truly accept that and the reality of things

[@sullysosavage365]

I never listened to Skillet much, I know a couple songs and like what I've heard quite a bit but this...I freaking love what this dude is saying about today's version of "tolerance". Keep at it man!

[@josephgray1999]

This dude might be the most metal and rock dude on the face of the internet right now. We need more John Cooper for sure

[@drewg2591]

I've seen Skillet twice. In 2008, then last year in May. Both times they greatly exceeded my expectations. I've seen 60+ bands over the past 20 years and these guys absolutely crush it live. Would easily put in Top 5 best rock shows I've seen.

[@realrocker777]

LMAO

[@tylermulberry4577]

Oh shit we got a REAL rocker here 😮

[@bbraskey80]

@@realrocker777 Edgelord alert!

[@joshw6562]

I saw them perform in summer of 2002 I think? They were touring to support the Alien Youth album. It was in the Baseball field out behind Doherty HS in Colorado Springs. It was amazing. The following day they played a praise & worship "concert" at a neighboring church. That weekend is an absolute treasured memory.

[@markkeeler2343]

Seen them 4 times , get better every time see them, Filmore in Detroit twice was way AWESOME

[@jornada.del.muerto]

That Tauren Wells + Skillet collab made me come back to listening to Skillet again Made me realize how gifted he actually is more than people acknowledge ROCK IS BACKKKKKK

[@Hicks-g1m]

I love Skillet they are awesome and they are so uplifiting rock on guys

[@deafcage]

12:38 "Fight for someone else's right to say something you don' like.." I love that!

[@chloeryanvtuber]

well in that case, trans women are women and gay rights are human rights

[@OhSeeBarber]

And in response i will say no they aren't and yes i agree​@chloeryanvtuber

[@knxcholx]

​@@chloeryanvtuberuh, no. That has absolutely nothing to do with what they said 💀

[@chloeryanvtuber]

@@knxcholx it's my right to say something you don't like FrEeDoM oF sPeEcH right? That's what you guys claim to care so much about. Or it's only for you? 💀

[@knxcholx]

@@chloeryanvtuber you can say it all you want. Doesn't make it true. That's the difference. 💀

[@SolarDNA]

I'm from the south and I remember late 90s in highschool my guy who was big on Christianity showed up one day with a Skillet tee on telling me all about the show he went to over the weekend. He really loved them. I forgot all about the band for over a decade, then suddenly they blew up and were everywhere.

[@dannyvela4521]

Kudos Rock Feed, love Skillet. My sister loved them and now that she's gonna when I hear them it reminds me of her. I grew up on Cristian music Stryper, Whiteheart, Petra. So I appreciate you giving Cristian music a spotlight

[@frankverlatten7250]

Just watched Skillet show last night in Australia, one of the best live shows, massive energy and the band is always giving it 110%

[@shae482]

Skillet should’ve got popular when they released the “collide” album in 03. Baffles me that 2009/2010 was when they started getting mainstream success. Either way, super glad these guys and gals are successful, putting out killer music and still love what they do!

[@dantelan-i-er5466]

"Watcha got? Watcha want? Watcha need? CAN I BE YOUR SAVIOOOOR!" 🔥

[@matttheman3923]

I 100% agree, Collide is my favorite of their albums to this day! I’m actually surprised that they didn’t blow up with Comatose as well regarded as it is now

[@thunderzboltz6796]

@@dantelan-i-er5466 TELL ME WHY, DO I HAVE TO BEG, WHEN ALL THATS LEFT, IS A MEMORY, FORSAKEN

[@Jonandbrianshow]

​@@matttheman3923i remember Comatose. I went to see them at a Winter jam when Comatose. They were actually nominated for a Grammy for Comatose. But instead of being at the Grammy's, they were performing Winter Jam.

[@michaeln.3491]

I was in a band that opened for Skillet at Miami University in Middletown Ohio a long time ago. John let me plug into his Trace Elliot amp which sounds way better than my rig at the time. He and Cory were such amazing people. They are exactly what they preach. Down to earth. Humble. Just a light in this world. I was a fan from the first album btw. And was so honored to not only open for them, but to stand backstage and watch such an incredible show. Good times. A memory that still brings a smile to my face.

[@bentebbens]

That's so awesome 🫠🤗👍👍🙏

[@markhobbs1143]

Skillet is my band . Love in your music is what the world needs

[@brosch91]

Skillet is awesome, Thanks for the interview!

[@SneedTechIndustries-gf5hn]

Great band. Great respect to what he's doing out.

[@Deanna-m2e]

John cooper is such an amazing, awesome performer who loves Christ, his wife , family and the world. And of course… LOVES TO ROCK!!

[@IanOnTheDL]

John seems so down to earth and a wonderful person to be around

[@donjackson5522]

They are all great people and authentic Christians. My daughter ran into John and Korey at a convention and they stopped and talked with her and posed for a picture. There's also a behind the scenes video on YT where they all just hang out and go to Target and are just regular people.

[@Jmespo83]

The majority of people these days don’t want to respect others opinions. They want you to conform to the same beliefs they hold or will call you brainwashed and want nothing to do with you. It’s extremely rare that anyone is willing to listen to an opinion of someone else, offer theirs in return, and let it go or have a healthy/reasonable debate.

[@elitesniper40]

John Cooper is such a good role model... im not big on their more recent music with a handful of exceptions, but i will forever love this band

[@missbhavenvanwinkle7859]

Thank you John!! You have a houseful of fans over here in Nebraska! 👏👏👏👏

[@Mthom95]

If we cannot have civil discorse, agreeing to disagree on certain things, stop pointing fingers and calling eachother names, then we cannot function as a society.

[@craighalvorson77]

4 minutes in: Great perspective on humility. Knowing who you are. And living accordingly. I believe that giving the Lord His place in one’s life is a great way of humility.

[@darkhillseuropeanmountsLLC]

Love Skillet I've seen them 3 times and they always have an amazing show. John Cooper is an amazing person as well

[@Skilletfan]

Thanks so much for this interview! John's awesome and amazing! Skillet's the BEST band EVER!!!!

[@bentebbens]

Totally 👍🙏👍👍🙏

[@joshuaenyart5570]

I don't know this band but with this interview I have become a fan and I will search out their catalog! Thank you!

[@slightlygone]

I saw Skillet in a park back in 2002. The perseverance is incredible

[@Daffmeister187]

Skillet's music will probably stand the test of time, for the same reasons people have dismissed them previously. They write really catchy hooks, easy to follow yet meaningful lyrics and have production worthy of top-tier pop-stars. I also appreciate how they're able to balance staying true to their beliefs unapologetically, whilst also not painting everything with a God and Jesus-brush.

[@mthomas91088]

I admire you sir, thank you for your faith in your industry! It’s few and far between that believe in our Lord Jesus Christ in the rock/ hard rock/ metal community. While people are there i don’t know many artists that speak the way you do!

[@joshuaschmidinger3993]

John is on to a concept most people won't get cuz you have to love others to do it. We have a different opinion yet we can still be friends, when you love it's really a no Brainer. I live by this but people who have an inferiority complex have to cancel, to win and in reality that is just like the 2 year old that won't listen and throws the spoon on the ground for their parent to pick up over and over again. Someone has to be an adult. Thank you for letting people speak their mind, no matter what they believe, that is fair and I appreciate you bro 👏

[@andrewvasquez7872]

Its easy to be friends when its all "opinions" but would you be saying this to a gay man? Sure I have friends that have various opinions but I also acknowledge that thats a privilege because if its just "opinions" then things that truly affect others dont affect me.

[@rynelson85]

​@@andrewvasquez7872😂😂😂 Why would you not say the same to a gay man? Your statement makes no sense at all.

[@ChronicBreakdown]

You said this so well.

[@darksu6947]

​@@andrewvasquez7872I'm guessing you're not a fan of a little dude on dude action? That's cool, whatever blows your dress up big guy. 😁

[@phoenix11185]

Finally got to see Skillet live in Louisville at Louder than Life 2024, I've listened to them for a really long time and its awesome to see how far they've come. On a side note, thank you John Cooper for calling our the bs on the culture of tolerance being intolerant of those who believe as we do. Keep rocking!

[@seanalbright8385]

Such a great guy, so talented

[@VGKDean]

I’ve been listening to this band since 2003. I love them.

[@sonofguns1016]

I love Cooper, not much of a fan of Skillets new stuff but definitely still enjoy their old stuff and respect them.

[@frisco9936]

Crazy! I grew up listening to Skillet, since they were the only Christian rock band my parents would let me listen to. I saw them a few times in Florida, I was around for their "Invincible" release, and everything after is pure gold. Although I moved on from the Christian faith, It was great to find out Skillet ended up blowing up in the main stream. I always thought they were years ahead of other Christian music artists as far as sound went. I ended up picking up bass and playing for my church thanks to skillets influence, then picked up piano, guitar, drums, lol. Always wishing Skillet many blessings. From 13 years old to now 34.

[@Zeitgeist6]

Sounds like a smart guy. And yeah it's okay to have a different opinion on things. Even on divisive issues. The problem starts when people start trying to silence the people they don't agree with. So yeah he's absolutely correct about respecting the other person even if you don't agree.

[@twiztidlestat]

Dude, the Right does the SAME shit. What are you talking about. They constantly disregard and bash liberals for their stances

[@CartierTraining]

The first Skillet song that got my attention was Rebirthing. I love the intro.

[@coreymcdaniel2759]

Well said John. Love your views on things.

[@KIKROX86]

I absolutely love skillet

[@Sultanofsimps]

The two type of people who are just intolerable are hyper religious people who can’t wait to push their views on people and non religious people who can’t wait trash somebody’s beliefs.

[@justinatest9456]

Amen!

[@Madchris8828]

That's because most people can't think for themselves in any capacity. They live as drones who are little different than NPCs in video games. Sad truth

[@jethrodebeer2217]

My respect to John Cooper for not selling out.

[@VanishingImage]

I can always come back to Skillet when other music isn't hitting me. Hits the nail on head where it shouldn't matter what your religion or beliefs are. if we all like music then let that be the connection!

[@bawitback]

Absolutely respect John Cooper for his stance on this issue. What happen to all these punk and metal bands that use to have non-conformist lyrics and themes now preaching the opposite? At least it exposes many bands. I don't even listen to Skillet but that gonna change today.

[@chickadee3]

Interesting. I found Whispers in the Dark online in 2007 and have been a fan since. Fascinating that it wasn't even a radio song at that point.

[@jasongoad1084]

Great interview! Love John and Skillet! Great live band!

[@Wythaneye]

I've been a Skillet fan since 1997. I am amazed, and encouraged, to hear from John's heart back then, and now. He's the same guy. It's the same message. One man, one heart to serve Jesus. We need more Jesus followers like John.

[@xXxArcher13xXx]

Absolutely agree with his opinion about our culture...great guy!!

[@MrGhostNote]

He's such a cool laid back humble person. Also congrats on the interview

[@killerdemon5357]

They played in Goshen Indiana in july 2023 i got to touch his hand it was the best experience ever love Skillet!

[@GrowingAngelsAZ]

I love ur music skillet iam 64 yrs old bill lady

[@TheRiderInBlack85]

I love John Cooper and Rock Feed

[@mramazing9568]

The first song I heard was Savior and it hooked me in! I love Skillet, they seem like genuinely good hearted people!

[@neofighter5323]

First album I heard from skillet was collide and I fell in love❤❤❤❤❤

[@KR98]

Whether you agree with John or not, you've surely got respect for the dude. He is who he is, no matter the consequence. On top of that, Skillet has lead misguided individuals, from all walks of life, and every age group, from the dark places of their lives and their minds, to brighter futures than they could've imagined. I think a lot of people are still here today because one day they heard Skillet, and it was just what they needed. Skillet filled a huge hole for me, and no matter how my taste in music changes, they will always have a special place in my heart. Nothing but love for this band.

[@ChronicBreakdown]

2 Timothy 3:12: “In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.”

[@fearlessgamer2998]

Mad respect to John Cooper for speaking out the truth, Which never happens anymore

[@Vermiliongod22]

Love Skillet. Everyone has opinions, not everyone agrees with opinions but music, music brings everyone together

[@chaos120]

great interview bro, by both you and the guest.

[@tonyahenry5158]

Love Skillet

[@StephanieD7]

Skillet played at my church when I was in high school. Early 2000’s. I will never forget. 😂 they kill it.

[@Cocked_dolly_grip]

Is this the whole interview? I’d love to see a longer one with him!!

[@RockFeed]

This is the whole one. I had an issue with traffic that shortened the podcast. Next one will be longer!

[@stevensaldivar1111]

Skillet touring with Falling in Reverse would be dope!

[@stum7396]

Dude seems lovely. Great interview 👏

[@janicecooper192]

Music is the people that get you. So so true!

[@wbs1O1]

Wow John is down to earth. I agree with everything he said.

[@craighenry2351]

That was so full of good information, it seemed like it was an hour long as opposed to 12+ minutes.

[@dantelan-i-er5466]

"What was I wrong about?" That line hit!

[@chloeryanvtuber]

everything

[@karynpastoria3352]

I’m all in with Skillet Thank you John and Beth for sharing yourselves and your beautiful marriage with the who world and shows people you can be married and ROCK our faces off!!

[@SuperDriven1]

I met him and his wife in OKC right after they were married. Great people!

[@thesummit615]

I’m keeping with the old saying “if people hate you, you must be doing something right”, as long as we’re not talking about murder, pedophilia, human trafficking, etc.

[@chloeryanvtuber]

It's a good thing "woke" people are so hated by conservatives, then. It means we're right

[@creativebluecollar]

Great conversation, and the same thing I've been saying for a while. Why can't people be ok with disagreeing? And also the thing about how most artists aren't really against the machine, they're just for one of the machines and they'll tear you down if you disagree.

[@TheMuckrakersli]

It's always wild to hear how long it takes for a band to break through. I remember listening to "Rebirthing" playing Halo 3 in or 7th or 8th grade (2007). Didn't realize they didn't "make it" yet. haha

[@hyperspeed_心猿]

I think Skillet's better than ever. Only band with the balls to take on Dominion head on in a song! I think it's trendy to slam this group, but damn, they are pretty great.

[@gbssurvivor130]

LOVE LOVE LOVE SKILLET!!!!!

[@mandylessing5404]

I love John Cooper’s thoughts on Skillet music and the righting of the music and the lyrics on that. Along with Fight the Fury the other band that John and a few other members play with them. I’m glad that he’s a Christian and mentioned about that during this radio

[@benjaminandrews3778]

The conversation they doesn't quite do full justice to Skillet's early success. Collide came out in 2003, and I heard "Savior" as #1 on my local radio station that played all the big hits; it was #1 locally for weeks. That album hit the Billboard 200 and was in the Top 10 for Christian albums. Also, for what it's worth, the previous album had a few songs that made some of the less well-listened to shows on the local Christian station. But Skillet was big news on my secular station in 2003.

[@metalboy27]

Always seemed like a good dude. 8th grade me was obsessed with Collide, especially Forsaken.

[@triple_sics]

I remember hearing Savior for the first time n I was HOOKED. On repeat my sophomore year on MSN music

[@maggotmusic757]

I first heard Skillet on Smackdown vs Raw 2008 I think. My little brother and I always liked Monster. Always thought the two vocalists was a cool thing. Cool to see they're still going

[@Friendlyfires4985]

0:24 that laugh 😂😂 but good interview man 🙏🏽🔥

[@jasonczfan8658]

The entertainment industry has been very left leaning for sometime now and have not been kind to conservative or religious values. It takes some courage for those people to stand for their beliefs. It's no surprise that he has got some push back but I respect him for doing so.

[@hhaste]

I'm not a fan of Skillet's music but he seems like a great guy.

[@eddiecampbell3514]

Love their music! ❤❤❤

[@chanseking6552]

I set up stage lighting and sound for these guys mid to late 2000s with Pillar Skillet and Mercy Me in a parking lot of what was a school I believe just south of Dallas TX (forget name of the lil town Mansfield maybe lol)...first time I'd heard of them...enjoyed the them and Pillar

[@komradenikolai]

John is a Kind Man. A Very Kind Man.

[@apcspan]

I won't take anything away from Awake but Collide and Comatose Are Their best albums. I would even say that Alien Youth has a deep spot in my heart. It's surprising that after Comatose that they even had the thought that things may not work out. I remember being a part of that music scene around 10-11th grade and thinking this was some of the best I've ever heard. ITs awesome to see these guys still going.

[@phillipmeyer4059]

Dominion and Unleashed are the best.

[@rebeltexan2814]

@@phillipmeyer4059eh. That’s debatable.

[@phillipmeyer4059]

@@rebeltexan2814 I guess it depends on how much you can relate to an album. I first listened to Unleashed when I was near rock bottom and really needed it.

[@nonamer741]

I remember listening to Alien Youth on my iPod shuffle, good times

[@andrewmagana8093]

Excellent interview

[@204017754]

I couldn’t agree more with the idea of civil disagreement. I don’t understand where the anger comes from with some people. Not everyone has to share your opinion.

[@chloeryanvtuber]

meanwhile, john cooper: "if you don't share my exact beliefs, you are not a tRuE cHrIsTiAn! It's a woke! Hide them, my kids can't know they exist"

[@shadowblack2021]

Been a fan of Skillet since before Monster. Much respect to John and the rest o the band! \m/ \m/

[@jorgeloya6420]

Skillet is my young side of my awesome band