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My teen and college years were shaped by prophetic Christian artists like Keith Green, Steve Camp, and cross-over groups like U2 among a few others. These artists stood out because they sang of uncompromsing, radical discipleship that challenges the status quo and goes beyond the sentimental “Me-ism” of most Christian music.
I had almost given up on such voices today, though I have learned to enjoy some Christian rap artists with my children like Cross Movement.
I said “almost given up” … because my tendecy to acquiesce to the sappy contemporary stuff that is being offered these days was challenged when I was once again listening to some hard-hitting, no-holds-barred Christian music coming across my computer speakers. What makes it even better is that Derek Webb is currently offering his music for free on the web. These tunes are already on my Ipod (new gift I just received as an early b-day gift). They are also lyrics worth discussing at the next youth or adult small group. Finally, a person willing to (in the words of Stanley Hauerwas) “be as hard, edgy, and beautiful” as the Gospel is. You go Derek … I am a fan from day one.
Here are a few teaser lyrics to get your heart, your feet, or maybe your ire warmed up:
peace by way of war is like purity by way of fornication it’s like telling someone murder is wrong and then showing them by way of execution – from My Enemies Are Men Like Me
come on and follow Me, but sell your house, sell your suv, sell your stocks, sell your security and give it to the poor – From Rich Young Ruler
who’s your brother, who’s your sister
you just walked passed him i think you missed her
as we’re all migrating to the place where our father lives
’cause we married in to a family of immigrants
my first allegiance is not to a flag, a country, or a man,
my first allegiance is not to democracy or blood
it’s to a king & a kingdom – from A King & A Kingdom
Hat tip: Jonathan
G. Kevin Baker 