Webisode 22: Is Christian Hip Hop Relevant? | Dead End Hip Hop

[@davewah85]

christian hip hop really isnt bad. bump trip lees song "robot" in the car on a nice summer day with the windows down. life feels pretty good :)

[@Jalafian]

@mykectown I can respect that, so just like what you said about Big Sean's album it's just not for you, and tehre are a lot of people out there that Christian rap is not for. But for them they're doing what they're called to do and they can't force anyone to listen.

[@mykectown]

@Brotherspeak My whole point was, if you serve for the purpose of bettering your congregation and you're driving around in a Benz, while some of your flock can barely eat, you need to re-evaluate your beliefs. It's obvious by the words in the Bible that if you are the man who has been chosen to speak the word, there is absolutely no reason that you would be hoarding all this money because, in the end, God will provide for you. And that's to be comfortable! No to be well above your means.

[@mykectown]

@Jalafian No one said you had to be poor to be a Christian. The comment was in reference to big money pastors. I don't wanna repeat them so if you scroll down, I named various scriptures to back up what I said. And yes, a lot of churches don't accept Gospel rap, but a lot do. So it's still accurate. All you gotta do is find the right church. And since there's one on every block of the black neighborhoods, next to the Popeyes and across the street from the liquor store, it shouldn't be too hard.

[@mykectown]

@Brotherspeak Oh, no. man, I didn't think you were trying to argue at all! I actually agreed with what you said. I was just giving the verses because I do realize that maybe pauper was a bit extreme to some, but it's how I interpret those verses. I more than welcome questions like yours.

[@mykectown]

@Jalafian I don't feel like you can speak for ALL Christian rappers, but I respect your opinion.

[@GenesizMusiq]

All things aside...in regards to the dude at 13:30 talkin bout how no christian rapper is on that level lyrcially etc...check out Sevin. Honestly, he is one of those dudes who aint preachin and all that. And he is real as they come. He doesnt paint a pretty picture of life just because he follows God...he keeps it real on real issues. I know so many peeps who arent christians and wont listen to christian rap, but they listen to sevin. He has that gift like Pac to make you really feel him.

[@mykectown]

@Brotherspeak "It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God" (Matthew 19:24) Maybe "pauper" isn't the best word, but there are multiple verses that say how riches and an obsession with material goods are ungodly. And don't tell me that a lot of these mega-church preachers don't obsess over wealth with their expensive suits and cars.

[@wetalkhawkstv]

Bizzle is the dopest MC out there. Hands down.

[@joestarification]

chican has a point everyone is preaching, some tell you directly whats cool and whats not subliminally feeding you. that is what advertising does. And some indirectly ante up by mop is direct. fifthy is direct. some are just telling stories about what they've been through and christian respect that. I think with the lecrae thing you gotta understand he first started out just making music for the church and rehab was little more loose then rebel and now gravity will be him going in a braille styl

[@93Nfinite]

haha the man said the pastor could be "the biggest poppa in the village." this brought up good points.

[@mykectown]

@Brotherspeak Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life. -- 1 Timothy 6:17-19.

[@Jalafian]

@Kingemedia I feel you on that. You have to have some variety. That's why I don't listen to the radio too much. All the songs sound the same and i can set my clock by what song is playing at a certain time of day. My only point is at some point they are suppose to present the word in their music.

[@mykectown]

@Lonewolf4ever92 Thanks. Just speaking what I've felt since I was 15.

[@PhyuckYiu2]

I'm not even a christian but I like Bizzle. I think he's dope and his skills are sharp.

[@AJB4Entertainment]

the "automatic fanbase" is not as easy it sounds. from experience alotta ppl in the church don't wanna hear rap music period even if it is Christian. and most kids in the church still listen to all the rap they hear on the radio

[@yugang08]

This was another dope video. I like the fact that ya touched upon a topic that no one else seems to wanna talk about. I feel the two guys that had the best commentary was chican and myke. I chose chican cause he not only give insight on what christian hip hop is but also brought up the point about the word "Preaching" and how it can be a double standard at times....(continue nxt comment)

[@vice2versa]

jesus walks is the best christian rap song I've ever heard.

[@mykectown]

@glenn8612 If they did have a mega hit I guarantee it wouldn't be a song about God. If "Jesus Walks" was Kanye's first single, he would have had a LOT more work to do to get where he is.

[@bravetherainbow]

I'm a bit bored by a lot of 'Contemporary Christian Music' artists too but there are still great Christian musicians out there, you just have to dig deep. I haven't got into a lot of Christian hip hop yet but I'd recommend Decomposure, Sufjan Stevens and Andrew Huang if you're into indie/rock/folk/electronic music as well.

[@heshmusiclistening3852]

watching these old videos makes me miss the Hip Hop Minute. always nice to see shoutouts to other creators in the community.

[@kennithbinge]

@BIGCYPHER90 @mykectown Yes. They need to be revised to fit modern times. If it will continue to be used as the "religion of choice". Christianity historically has been pressed and pushed on people without choice. Christianity was a forced religion, not a religion of willingness. Christianity has borrowed other facets of religion and added it as it's own. Similar to hip hop, it has taken many styles from other religions and incorporated it. We need a Remix Testament.

[@kennithbinge]

@Jalafian That's a good analogy and I can respect that. However, after a while, regardless of whether is Christianity or saving me from drugs, it will become tiresome and that person may just run away and leave you be. I guess you can say you tried.

[@Guekooooo]

Good unorthodox topic. Like it.

[@mykectown]

@yugang08 Thanks, bro. I really appreciate that.

[@bravetherainbow]

oh I was implying that that interpretation of Jesus being the 'King of Kings' seemed to line up with what "prosperity theology" is known for... emphasising God's blessings in the form of material or financial wealth. I think it's a bit of a controversial idea, maybe because even though Jesus' destiny is to be the King of Kings he still lived a humble life on earth and not really beyond his needs...

[@Jalafian]

Lastly, the bible does not say that you have to be poor to be a christian. But you do have to look out for your brother, it doesn't say to which extent, or that you have to give all your money away to remain a christian. He wants his people to have the desires of their heart. And, the built in audience argument isn't exactly accurate. A lot of churches still don't even accept "gospel" rap, and there would be a lot of gospel singers in their church choir famous right now if that was all it took.

[@mykectown]

@Guekooooo Hahah! Nice pun!

[@glenn8612]

Its going to take a mega hit for christian rap to become relevant in the mainstream music industry (think Kirk Franklin and Mary Mary) i feel its relevant in the christian circle because like Myke said they already have a "fan" base.

[@ElanBrio]

Never want to tell you how to live just want to inform you about the other options beside what's fallen and broken is this world ! Hope is the key cause all is vanity whatever we achieve in this life is worthless compared to eternity I love hip hop I want make good music that encourages and relates to everyone as much as possible ! I'm not perfect I'm human and the only difference between me and any one else is I know about grace! I'm not better than you or anyone else !

[@mykectown]

@Kingemedia You're right. I'm just gonna turn the other cheek.

[@bravetherainbow]

I think it's Grayskul. Wikipedia says they're a hip hop duo from Seattle.

[@cadwaukig]

Ctown mentioned Braille!!! I knew his dad before he passed away! Braille is badass!

[@mykectown]

@wwe2dragon Yeah, man, listen to "Heaven Is Still Coming/Disappear" on Bloody Radio. And the line I was trying to remember is "If you're right, back to dust. If I'm right, then you're fucked." But that song is pretty blatant, but it presents it in a pretty MC way. Check it out.

[@Jalafian]

@ImperviousMason I hear you but even with that being said, with Christian rappers having this "built in audience" how many of them do you really see making any serious money doing it. It's not all that profitable for them with the advantages they're suppose to have. Now if we were talking about contemporary gospel then maybe I could see it.

[@shardyboi]

Surreal & DJ Balance - Rebirth Of Skill JR&PH7 - feat Theory Hazit - We Live Come on man........

[@chicangeorge]

@SuperScott881 #2 within the first minutes I broke down the two different types of HHH artists and their specific market, spoke on the double standard of the word "preach" and rubbernecking. Until 7:00 we were setting up everything. LOL!

[@kennithbinge]

It's like the Hip Hop Crusades on here!

[@chicangeorge]

1 timothy 6:15, Revelation 17:14, 19:16 Ezra 7:12, Ezekiel 26:7, Daniel 2:37 In some context they are refering that Jesus rule is higher than other rulers, but in some the sense that we are within the kingdom of God and shall reign with him, but he is the highest king.

[@mykectown]

@BIGCYPHER90 That was done with the Old Testament no matter what standpoint you look at it from. Jesus revised these laws numerous times in the Bible. From a xian standpoint, I explained why they were changed. From an atheist/agnostic standpoint, they were changed to keep the Bible relevant. Pac was saying if God wrote this book he would understand that more things would need changing in order for people of today to find value in it. That's a large reason of why it's ignored by our youth today.

[@spidakid72]

great discussion

[@BinaryStarofShaolin]

Shades of Gray - Braille Favorite Song: Keep On Check it out...

[@kennithbinge]

@glenn8612 Not sure how that would happen. Then again, I take that back.

[@chicangeorge]

I feel ya. Thanks for clearing up your thoughts. Most people just bash what I said and take it out of context. I actually respond to this interview on a song I did. You can check it out if you want.

[@mykectown]

@Brotherspeak ... Do not rich men oppress you, and draw you before the judgment seats? Do not they blaspheme that worthy name by the which ye are called? -- James 2:6,7. I can go all day, man.

[@yugang08]

@mykectown lol damn, that last sentence was cold. Interesting back & forth tho. Btw, what are your personal beliefs on god? u dont have to tell me im just curious

[@chicangeorge]

@SuperScott881 I actually felt like I wasn't being defensive at all. I was the only one defending HHH, so at times it may have looked like I was eagerly tring to jump into the convo. To say I didn't have much to say though? #1 like i stated, it was 4 against 1 and I really couldn't get in a lot of points, but for the most point I thought I made some key points. Not mad, just sayingthat I feel I brought points to the table.

[@flipmodeisthesquad]

Another flawless episode from you guys. Great stuff. Myke is the man!

[@smeerios]

Myke hit the nail on the head

[@kennithbinge]

@mykectown I should have stated "If I was a church goer..." or saved.

[@michellesciti]

Great combo fellas but like chica george said we are all being preached to whether we like it or not.Music infiltrates the sub conscience it influence us on many levels. So with that being said I believe christian artist are just as relevant..basically they just want to inspire, enlighten on what they believe is the Truth just like Rick Ross thinks fast cars, bling , parties and bitches is the way the truth and the life..if secular artist cld get paid for there craft so should christian artist

[@chicangeorge]

I feel ya, but like you said, the word "prosperity" is used wrong nowadays. First off, we were given prosperity in Genesis. Prosperity doesn't mean money, but living in a thriving, successful condition. Notice, I agreed with the idea of not living above your means, but GOD doesnt want his children broke though

[@yugang08]

@mykectown Oh ok. I can respect everything u said here too.

[@bravetherainbow]

"So therefore, if we're supposed to be created in his image, we're supposed to be kings as well." WOOO PROSPERITY GOSPEL

[@kinggmoney225]

Their are good and bad artist in every genre of music but its about making music that people can relate to and that sounds good Christian Rappers can do that the same as any artist in any other genre its all about your skills on the mic some great Christians Rappers in my opinion are the Cross Movement, Da Truth, Trip Lee,Lecrae .

[@mykectown]

@BIGCYPHER90 And I'm not generalizing ALL preachers. I think that was pretty apparent, too, but you probably missed that as well. I've been to churches that did lots of great things and met pastors who were in it solely to get the word of God out . And that's great. I've also been to some that didn't. Listen to the conversation next time before you decide to call me out. Because 9 times out of 10, you're gonna be wrong. This would be one of those 9 in case you missed that, too.

[@bigsoso20]

exactly as long as it isnt cheesy and softer than pillow fluff i'll listen, the thing is most come across as cheesy. why cant there be more mos defs, kendricks and lauryn hill or something

[@yugang08]

I also chose myke cause 1) most hip hop fans just wants to listen a rapper for the music and hear a rapper spitting fire talking about all kinds of stuff, they dont really want to be preached to and told how they should live their life. 2) hypocrite fake christians are the reason some ppl are skeptics of the christian religion (or maybe religion period) and churches.

[@EricNygma]

@mykectown I Definitely will, man. Thanks

[@fredyortiz5132]

thank you

[@imperialshalom]

@Kingemedia Now in refrence to them making Christian music, I think creativity can be pushed a little more. There are only so many words you can rhyme with Christ. If they love Christian music, what separates them, as individuals in that medium as far as content? It's also the same gripe I have with secular artist. No one knows how to listen music before they make it!

[@imperialshalom]

I am a Christian. I don't listen to a whole lot of Christian rap because they sound like the secular artist. I also find it hard to listen to them emulate those artist and then criticize them in the same breath. Just make the music you love to make and let your life draw people without some kind of formula or strategy. You don't have to wear Christianity on your shoulder. It's a cop out, and it makes us seem distant from people.

[@southeastavi]

I think there is a difference between Christian Hip Hop and a Hip Hop artist that is Christian. I am Christian I do not like Christian Hip Hop as I don't like someone telling me what to do with my life (like said in the video). But I like listening to artists that are Christian for example Kendrick Lamar, Son of Ran (not sure if he is Christian) and many other artists.

[@mykectown]

@Brotherspeak Wait. One more. Can't believe I forgot this one.: Matthew 19:21 “Jesus said to him, “If you wish to be complete, go and sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you shall have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.”

[@Thinkableness]

Yeah, I used to be into Christianity and music heavily a few years ago and I can say that's it's much easier for Christian rappers to get their audience. One being that a majority of young Christians pretty much never say anything critical about another's work out of that fear of being a stumbling block so they get around easily and most of them haven't been exposed to other music to make a comparison -it can be very sheltered. If you're a Christian rapper and drop something it's easier for it to show up as a number 1 on itunes because they just flock to it simply because you have to support your "brother" or "sister" in Christ.

[@julianbell9161]

The guest looks like the "hide your kids, hide your wife" guy a little bit.

[@chicangeorge]

well I'm not him. I'm married with 4 kids. No hiding here. lol

[@julianbell9161]

chicangeorge I'm referring to an internet meme. Google "hide your kids, hide your wife." I'm not referring to you or any one with a wife and kids.

[@chicangeorge]

+Julian Bell yeah, antoine dodson. we're both from Alabama, so I wanted to make sure you knew we weren't the same person. lol #weregood

[@lafairweath3]

@@chicangeorge also you don't look like him

[@chicangeorge]

@@lafairweath3 thanks! 😂

[@Tobias.Harris]

hammer dance in the background

[@pearsecfc07]

Interesting discussion looking forward to part 2 Hope we see a DeadEndHipHop Canibus - Lyrical Law review

[@kennithbinge]

@michellesciti I think they should. Why not? They should not be unjustly penalized because they are Christian rappers.

[@mykectown]

@abnormalisdope1 Personally, I don't care about religion in hip hop at all. It's really just about how much they throw their beliefs in the music. One of my favorite rappers is Brother Ali. I don't care that he's Muslim. He's a dope rapper that talks about real shit rather than preaching for 40 minutes. But I can't lie and say I don't steer away from full on Christian rap as a rule. And that's because, typically, they can't help themselves but to throw their judgments into their music.

[@bravetherainbow]

Oh hey, yeah I'll check it out. Thanks for responding.

[@cgvanheerden4190]

lecrae got bars man

[@fantasticsituation9461]

true

[@EricNygma]

I didn't even know Grayskul was Christian Confirms Myke's point

[@thaspydaman21]

I think one reason Christian hip-hop is as big as it could be or should be. Is because tha world is a dark place and most people don't wanna hear or understand what Christian music as a whole and religion is looking down on in tha world.

[@GABA-Gool]

I'm not religious so I can't really relate or feel what they say, but some of my favorite rappers are devoutly religious and bring it up quite a bit in their albums and I still love their music. The difference though? That's not ALL they do, Nas's Gods Son album was packed with christian/catholic imagery; metaphors, concepts, etc. but he mixed it up also with racial tension; his Moms passing, struggles with clinging to fame, his past with Jay and Biggie, etc. So even though I don't believe in any God, I can still feel what he's saying because he's also attributing it with things I can either relate to or at least have an interest in the subject. Most strictly Christian rappers I hear just spit Bible verses and "righteousness" over tracks and I just can't feel or relate to any of it.

[@FreshHeat]

@deadendhiphop Take note of Passionate MC on the Spitboss cypher,

[@Newmage]

Lecrae, Gideon'z Army, the rest of the 116 clique, Odd Thomas... Have you checked em out?

[@mykectown]

@Kingemedia That's not the point, Ken. Come on, bro. Keep up. The point is he's not doing his duty if his flock is suffering while he's living in excess. No one is going to convince me otherwise.

[@kennithbinge]

@mykectown @brotherspeak Someone should tell Bishop Eddie Long this one. Actually, send him a tweet. He on Twitter. Or Kreflo.

[@kennithbinge]

@Brotherspeak @mykectown a lot of preachers are "Big Poppas". Tending to his flock.

[@RiftRaft123]

Blu is one of the few Christian rappers that are nice.

[@CITIZENCINEMATV]

@mykectown yeah thats the way it came out in the vid myke

[@kennithbinge]

@chicangeorge @superscott881 You did. It really allowed the conversation to flow and for us to use your statements to engage in conversation. We really needed to set the table in order to start it off. And yes, it's HARD to get a word in sometimes! Hahaha.

[@kennithbinge]

@michellesciti I know. My reply was in agreement with you. I thought I wrote it to you but I actually wrote it in reply to @bigcypher90

[@kennithbinge]

@Jalafian I don't think they have to preach in order to rap. As long as the message is positive and not leading people astray, then they should be good. It shouldn't be a requirement that a Christian Rapper preaches the word.

[@kennithbinge]

Let me say this though, that I would listen to Christian hip hop as a support system. A way to enjoy hip hop without the negativity and sinful lifestyle of some artists. Yes, positive hip hop exists. Christian hip hop is not suppose to be a preaching platform to bring one to God. For one, no one will listen. Keep it real. They would pick up Waka first. So the market they have is in existence as @mykectown alluded to. In reality, they would only provide entertainment, not word.

[@ProPainism]

One of them said that no one on Christian Hip Hop has the flow and talent like the secular artists......clearly someone hasn't listen to THEORY HAZIT!!!

[@chicangeorge]

I did say you had to be broke. You took what i said out of context. I said that a lot of christians have a mentality that God doesnt want you to have more than nothing. #spreadthesoup

[@salasrcp90]

holyshit natedogg still alive!!

[@thaspydaman21]

@beezy430 Yea I feel you, I listen to all kinda music I don't if its tha Detroit in my or tha fact I'm trying to do my rap thing, but Christian artist I think should just do them and not would about getting a huge buzz.

[@kennithbinge]

@mykectown You forgot Church's chicken and probably a McDonalds.

[@CITIZENCINEMATV]

@mykectown they dont need to be revised because they apply already otherwise so many people wouldnt be saved today right now , still not all laws its more then that which is fact myke so it does cut it since it works for over billions of people today which is another fact , its ignored because of influences , lack of interest , not full understanding and other factors . but when someone can and does bypass youth get it and follow it (to be cont.)

[@mykectown]

@Kaleoinstrumentz He's good...but on a Biggie, G Rap or even a Celph Titled level? Nah. But thanks for the tip!

[@davidserban]

shai linne- through my eyes

[@CITIZENCINEMATV]

@beezy430 yeah thats the thing beezy cause then those arent real christians then cause w/ real christians the main goal is to focus on our souls salvation , letting all non believers know their options for after this lifetime and staying true to GOds word . also w/in the christian community we know that those type of people just play christian and they can try and fool us but they cant fool God cause he can see right to their hearts . so we dont count fake or lukewarms as real ones

[@Juiceish1]

I Like Soulfoul hip hop.

[@The522Murphy]

I think christian hip hop is a blessing! What do you think Martin Luther King would think would think about it!Don't we know the answer to that ! He'd probably tell us this is what your kids should be listening to .................

[@Olando89]

It would be horrible to be locked into a box. I could never do that.

[@NicholasX9]

Damn kinge so slow tryna work out the whole pastoral thing at the beginning lol

[@RiftRaft123]

Big Krit is the best rapper with a Christian tint on his album.