Right. You are spot on with the "soccer mom" categorization. That's what we see on the flip side of the equation on the Christian radio scene. I miss the old days when Air 1, for example, used to play edgier Christian rock.
you could take this video one to one to christian churches and prayer groups. thats the reason why i left all christian meetings. i do it solo, i started solo, i will finish it solo. thats all i have to say i dont know how you are or if i like you. just the video itself was informative
@@DerKnusperhase There are good churches out there. I encourage you to find one because we weren't designed to walk this faith alone. "And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near." Hebrews 10:24-25
@@allofshope sir i thank u for ur warm and true words. you are right. but not everybody has the same blessing in all kinds of situations. im 33. since i get new born i had 2 short relationships and 1 friend. since 6 years or so completley alone. i have to admit that i like it actually. im so used to be alone im sure i would say to the perfect woman a male friend or even a church just no. not because of bitterness or hate just because im so used to be alone.
Amen to your comment. I DO RECOMMEND YOU LISTEN AND WORSHIP WITH "mercy" BY " joy fak"..ITS AN INSPIRATIONAL SONG THAT TALKS ABOUT THE GOODNEES & MERCIES OF GOD....
I also left many years ago because in private they do everything secular artists do. I'll remain independent because I can do what God's word instructs instead of the world.
But it's good to be you and stop looking up to others sometimes You would have not quick and be unique and be an example to others in gospel music ministry
Having been a youth in the 80's - 90s I remember A LOT of solid, Scripture-based messaging in Christian music, thirty or more years later the general messaging does seem completely different. The focus is largely on the self, making money first and promotion with the goal of accommodating the world and modern narratives.
I have stopped listening to almost all the mainstream music I grew up with and loved. It's sad even the "Christian" industry is so messed up and guiding people astray, further from The Lord instead of closer to Him. Christian music as music should be designed to worship Him, not the things of the world, but it's all run by the same people, so not so surprising.😢
So in other words you utilize the worldly industry which is run by the devil, to make money, while putting you faith on the shelf a minute. Did you not know that there are only two sides in this world. There is NO lukewarm. The Lukewarm folk GOD Vomits out Read Revelation 3 about the laodicean church. If you are doing both secular music and the worshipping Christ you are serving two masters. The Bible says you CAN NOT serve two masters Matthew 6:24. Make up your mind sir, okay. THE LORD’S return draws nigh. satan has deceived you my friend. All music involves a spirit of worship. Music will either cause you to serve GOD or the devil. There is NO in between. The Bible says in Colossians 3:17“ whatsoever you do, in word or deed, do all in The Name of JESUS. Sir , we are NOT down here to stay. It is not about a bumper sticker, which says whoever dies with the most toys wins! But we are here to make a choice, ‘WHERE SHALL WE SPEND ETERNITY’? Life in this realm may last up to 100years or so, BUT that is still a drop in the bucket compared to ETERNITY. WE are here to make The Right choice . Because wherever death catches us, ETERNITY will hold us! I will be praying for you okay , because I really do care.
I don't know if you recall a fairly popular Gospel husband/wife duo in the early 90's called Angelo and Veronica, but they now have a UA-cam Channel and Church called Higher Place Ministries explaining why they opted out and virtually disappeared by the late 90's even though their music was highly annointed and amazing. I always wondered why they didn't have the staying power that a lot of others did. Evidently, this was all going on back then too, just a little more hidden and they call out many Pastors and Artists who are down with these dark societies including Yolanda Adams, Kirk Franklin, Amy Grant, and others and they speak from experience. I think the issue is now here in the last days they are barely trying to hide anything.
I know this is about 4 months ago and im only 16, but i'm literally going to school and writing music for the soul purpose of being seperate from that industry. Then i come across this video. This is a godsend Shopé, thanks for encouraging me, and may God keep you safe on this journey. You're doing God's work helping out new potential christian artists❤
That's a blessing to hear you found this encouraging. Stay close to the Lord first and foremost...above the music. Stay in a good community of faith. Then let that close relationship with the Lord give you the freedom to make the music He's placed on your heart.
@@allofshope earlier in the video you mentioned some new sub cultures if Christian music with a broader scope. Can you please point me on the right direction so that I can learn more about those sub cultures? Respectfully
I appreciate the insight this young man has to share. I'm honesty on the fence, I mean from the heart all you should want to even DO is preach about God, so that people understand Him. And, whether or not that ends up catering only to a certain audience that crossing over would allow you to expand on, its still my duty to sing about God and the gospel. Again, yes you can share your experiences and how God brought you through, and that can tie into the Gospel without looking like you just want Christian followers. The end goal is sharing your life thru a GOD'S PURPOSE lens. You can't convert anyone, but all you can do is sing of God, and He'll let that reach the wider audience, without you needing to cater to them through adding to your message. At the end of the day, preach the Gospel and all that God Himself puts on your heart, no adding or subtracting from the Gospel, and He'll show it to the people He needs to show it to. God bless you for sharing your story and God bless His people.❤
I appreciate you making this video and will check out your music. Last year, shit got real. Being a disciple of Jesus is not easy or comfortable. No one can convince me that denying myself, taking of my cross, and following Jesus will be always happy, painless, easy. There will be times of great joy and great sorrow, but following Jesus will always be worthwhile despite the struggle.
I have been writing songs for 35 plus years and what I have learned IS WAIT ON THE LORD. I put a CD out in 2001 on my own i got good responses. But it was not time yet PEOPLE tried to push me TO do many things. I am NOT trying to BE a star or a million aire I am content with the things I have. I will continue to wait on the LORD. And ALWAYS CHECK WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT HE WILL LEAD AND GUIDE YOU INTO THE TRUTH. DONT let mankind deceive you.
"I could not reconcile my desire for financial gain from my music with using the Gospel message as a means of achieving it."... This has ALWAYS been my conviction! This video resonated heavily with me! Appreciate your transparency bro!
I have a different perspective. I don’t see how this is different than a full-time pastor or teacher or evangelist making their income preaching the gospel. 🤷🏼♀️
@@OHsopositiveI don’t think spreading the message should ever be something paid for. I think this is where communities are important. In the Bible when Yah set the Israelites up in the promise land he explicitly didn’t give the levites an inheritance but told the rest of the community to pay a tithe of food or money so that they were cared for. That’s how it should be pastors and preachers should be cared for by the community because what they do is a community service. It shouldn’t be seen as a profession or a job. It’s a life calling and the people are to assist with that.
@@nonnieJ94 That’s still being paid for. Whether it’s in food or money, God is giving them something in return of their service. Also Pastors and Priest are jobs. They held their own unique title for the work they did and many dedicate their entire lives to it. No side jobs. We also wouldn’t follow the exact rules of Israelites since that was made specifically for a nation. But rather what Paul says in we should be giving back to our Pastors and those who spread the Gospel with money. “If we have sown spiritual things among you, is it too much if we reap material things from you?” 1 Cor. 9:11
I got saved at 18 back in 2004. Loved all kinds of music but struggled with Christian music for the same reasons you talked about. It was like, “Oh, I want to worship or be encouraged? Put on the Christian stuff.” But when it came to dealing with stuff I was dealing with in my past or whatever I’d default back to groups like Linkin Park or Evanescence because they were actually singing about that kind of stuff. I love finding “mainstream” or indie artists that are Christian but who sing about more than just the typical things you’d hear on stations like K Love. Much respect for recognizing the conviction that the Holy Spirit laid on your heart and acting in obedience. I feel like we need more faithful believers making good non-typical music (if that makes sense). I’ll have to give your stuff a listen!
Excellent video. In addition... many "Christian" songs are written, composed, and the music created and recorded by the same artists that work at the same secular studios. The Christian singer just adds the voice. It's the same "music business". - This man is an exception!!!
I really love this bro I am a Christian artist and have been making songs you won’t typically hear in the church but it talks about the struggles in life and heartbreak. Love your breakdown
But people need to know what God did in that struggle, or as Christian do we leave the people with know way out. I know we talk about the struggle but I know Christ not church folk have always been the one that help me thru the struggle so that I can help others know what to do, not just struggle after struggle with no one pointing us to what God did in the struggle, if we let Him do anything, or just dealt with it ourselves. Just sharing. It's all about Jesus, 2 chronicles 7:14 is what God wants from His people, He should lead us in EVERYTHING.
Good for you brother! I spent 28 years as a Pastor’s wife. That’s a whole other “show”. People only want you to make THEM feel good and bring in money for THEM. They really don’t care what’s going on with you. Sad but true. Good luck to you!
That is Christendom for you. Churches are leading many souls to their destruction. Hence the reason Jesus Christ said 💎John 17:3; 💎Matthew 7:13, 14, 21. Christendom don’t follow or adhere to Bible principles/teachings or live up to the standards of Jesus’s Father Jehovah. Christendom don’t know either one of them even though Jesus said once again 💎John 17:3; 💎John 14:6; 💎John 6:44, 65. Simply put, Christendom (Churches) don’t know the truth as written in God’s word and so they worship and practice their form of worship that is not SCRIPTURAL. THIS IS WHY THEY ARE A HOT MESS. UTTER CHAOS AND CONFUSION BECAUSE CHRIST IS NOT THE ONE LEADING THE BODY. SATAN THE DEVIL IS...THE RULER OF THIS WORLD 💎 1 John 5:19, the father of the lie 💎John 8:44. The sooner Christendom figure this out and learn who Jesus Christ and his Father is and start studying Scriptures as along with reading it, the better off Christendom will be. But they won't get it. So prepare for a very rude awakening when Jesus return to judge the earth🤷🏿♀️. I SAID WHAT I SAID.
I understand completely sis. Hope that all this evil doesn't change your faith that only the true believers of Christ receive eternal life. God heal you. 🕊️✝️🙏
You have proven what I've realized for many years now: there are a lot of hip hop "Christian" artists who are brand new Christians thinking they can immediately go out and evangelize in their own way like chickens w/ their heads cut off; end up experiencing truly non-Christians in the Christian music industry; and end up leaving the industry or the faith altogether. Others, like Lecrae, still have one foot in the industry and push false doctrines & heresies and get upset when their Christian base rejects them. People like yourself need a Christian mentorship source in that space. And when I say Christian w/o quotes, I mean a real Christian.
Facts, too new and don't have a deep understanding of what Christians need. Or what it means to be Christian. He clearly doesn't understand what it means to be of the world yet.
I understand what you are saying. You really need to put God first before you miss lead a lot of people that may not know the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Get a regular job okay. If you're not going to do Gospel anymore then don't miss lead anyone else that want to go into Gospel Music. You need to on in Secular Music. Praying for you Sir and Most importantly so sorry for your experience with the Gospel Music World.🙏😢
I write worship songs about things I have gone through in my life and I think it is so needed for people to hear songs from dark times and how God is there through everything and helps us through those times.
Yes, it is needed but people would rather praise the singer rather than give praise to God. They believe in God, but don’t believe in Jesus and what they read in the Bible. We must not be lukewarm. We must believe that we have fallen and are sinners and in need of a savior and that savior is Jesus Christ. Jesus is the way, the truth, and the light. “Jesus *said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.” John 14:6 NASB1995 🙏🏽
You knocked this out of the park. Hit every nail on the head. I hope this gives insight to others who aren't familiar with the music industry in general. I hope other artists that see this have the courage to speak up and find freedom in their messages. Great content!
Yes, yes, yes! This tears me in 2 directions. 1, I couldn’t agree more with everything you said. 2, I’m broken by the reality that Christians don’t do a better job at balancing the faith and the business. You are a positive in my life and many others. Keep doing you Shopé! Shared!
Keep God word in the center in all you do. Now don’t let them pimp you out, clean hands and a pure heart. God is not In a box, so grow in his grace hear his voice and walk by his heart beat. Shalom
This is a jewel! So rare to find "understanding" given so eloquent a voice and so intelligent a transmission. I doff my hat. A real gem in the body of Christ is this brother.
Thank you for this truth that GOD has called you to share with the world because there a number of recording artists who will be faced with the same thing that you've encountered as well. Please know that we love playing your music on SAVE Radio which plays the Pinnacle in "Positive Hip Hop, Pop and R&B" music! Continue to shed HIS LIGHT my brother!!!
Thank you for bringing this out to the light. I've had a variety of experiences. In my teens I was a musician in the pop world then I got a opportunity in my twenties to work in the black-gospel world. I moved into the rock world in my 30s and 40s. I've since retired but the thing that disappointed me is with the gospel world I hoped that my Christian faith would be strengthened and grow and this is why I went from singing pop and rock to singing gospel. It was eye opening. It was an disturbing duality. You could be on stage and feel the holy Spirit moving and have some amazing moments but "backstage" it was the same as in rock and pop. The underbelly of the Christian music world is just like the secular music world. I think when you try to make real money from the music and you want exposure and record deals etc the same types of people are required to make that happen. Record labels, promoters, managers etc are not always Christians. They may plaster a "christian" sticker on your work and may claim to be like minded but they are just company men and money men and you are a product that's making money so that everyone gets paid. That is the point. G-d comes last! You can't sing about reality if you want to fill venues (church pews). There is a huge machine behind popular music regardless of the genre and that machine will roll over you if you don't play the game. Since I couldn't see the point in staying with something I felt was deceptive I went back to my roots. It was less complicated since I knew what was expected and no one was trying to manipulate a message for their own benefit.
You speak with a lot of kindness. Also your ability to put you experience into an understandable format is a gift. Like I can't explain my feelings like that. Liked and subbed.
Thanks for sharing. Real recognize real. Love your heart man of God. I’ve been a DJ on both sides. 1993 to 2008 Secular, 2008 to present Gospel. Some music feeds the flesh, and some feeds the spirit. I will rather put my attention to what I can do to feed people spirts. When you lead one person to Jesus Christ with your music, you have done your job. Keep shining King!
I will continue to love and listen to the old Christian hymns I grew up singing in Church. Todays so-called "Christian music" has become alarmingly secular, and the artist, irreverent and heathenistic.
love from kenya shope. love the transparency. for someone who is a dancer and has came up within the christian space, i totally resonate with most of what you have shared. at the end of the day what is pure, honorable and worthy of praise will always point to the father. much love.
Where there is money, there are wolves. You can't trust anyone anymore simply because they say that they're a Christian. By their fruits we will know them. It's a dangerous world, especially in the music business. 8:49 That caught me wayyy off guard xD
@@allofshope I appreciate you too! I'm a musician myself looking to have a great career in the secular music business, so videos like this one warning me of the pitfalls of it all are my fuel and education. So I thank you for sharing your experience.
Setting people free with this bro. I’ve always battled with that growing up, and now that I’m older and have did my own critical thinking-I came to the same conclusions. God bless 🙏🏾
I don't know who you are but I am 66 years old and you encourage me. Your vocabulary is awesome it's so clear. I'm going to text my children this video. I am going to check out your music videos too.
Thanks for watching. The goal is first to be truthful & insightful not necessarily controversial. Sometimes truth can bring controversy and if/when that happens, the goal remains the same. Thanks for subbing also.
It’s hard to describe how relieved I am that there are people out there who also agree with this message. If anyone is looking for new music, or even just want to fellowship and do life together, that reflects this perfectly articulated message, I’m working on new music that will be coming soon. Much love to all of you
This was great! I felt your point at the end about hiding your intellectualism. I found myself doing the same over the years. It feels so good to just be myself now.
@allofshope I really appreciate your video. I spent 15+ years as a mainstream touring musician in a rock band. I ultimately decided to hang up my professional pursuit because of all the ugliness behind the scenes. For many years I slipped faith-based messages into my lyrics even though it would be looked down upon by most of the mainstream. I've been wanting to write and release solo Christian music, but have been dragging my feet in doing so because of your 3rd point. I completely relate to the comment about seeking financial gains using the gospel.
Thanks for watching the full video and getting the whole context (many didn’t seem to). Honestly, I personally couldn’t square the 2 away neatly in my conscience, so I separated my income from the gospel message. Not saying it can’t be done, just I personally couldn’t make it make sense in my head. Keep seeking the Lord and examining your conscience. As a believer, the Holy Spirit will guide you into all truth. P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t forget to sub + hit the bell.
HalleluyYAH brother your first point is so on point. This is how our creator is calling His people from this organised Christian organisation, to totally leave the entire Christendom and depend on YAH and His son Yahusha. All glory to goes to Yah for your testimony! Keep bringing us what The Most High puts on your heart.
Young man , i speak to you as a professional singer-songwriter on guitar, solo recording/performing artist,and to avoid all that business of the middle person; i signed nothing and represented myself. ...self-taught on guitar,etc. BUT ALWAYS AWARE: THAT THE GIFT CAME FROM JESUS CHRIST ABOVE ALL ELSE. My music was pop,folk,blues,rock , middle-eastern. Yes , i am a "natural " and literally, MADE IT TO THE TOP OF THE MUSIC WORLD. Life started moving REALLY fast and I performed in all venues. BUT, i suddenly got a knock on the door of my heart from the Holy Spirit. It was a solemn warning INDEED. I kept performing, but i couldn't forget Jesus Christ. I was born and raised in the Seventh Day Adventist Church, daughter of a lay SDA preacher and missionary. I chose to return to the LORD, and started writing and performing at Church again for the ONE who gave me the gift. There is NO COMPROMISE, when it comes to God either you serve Him or you don't; there's no middle road. My advice is straight from God's Holy Bible, because you cannot argue with a, "thus saith the LORD ". If you are to be a "true Christian "- follower of Jesus Christ, then your music must be "an echo" of heavenly music; not hip-hop,or any of the aforementioned genres. "And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me." -John12:32 "Behold ,I stand at the door ,and knock: if any man hear my voice,and open the door, I will come into him,and will sup with him, and he with me." -Revelation3:20 "And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, chose ye this day whom ye will serve, ...but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD. " - Joshua24 :15 Finally from King Solomon: (since you say that not everything in the Holy Bible is: JESUS, JESUS JESUS; GUESS WHAT?!) "Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God,and keep His commandments: for THIS IS THE WHOLE DUTY OF MAN." -Ecclesiastes 12:13 I pray this will help you understand, because dear Brother, JESUS CHRIST ABOVE ALL ELSE is about to Return. Many Blessings to you and yours. 🎶⏰
@The Word Rapper GMA I don't think so. Imagine, if you stand before the LORD 'S glory, His throne; would you DARE break out rapping? I think not,because it would be the equivalent of Led Zepplin trying to perform their Satanic Rock verses. I have heard the testimony of many a former rapper who returned to the LORD. What has made the litany of rap is syncopated rhythms mixed with talk which they confessed, they said was coming from some other spirit, i.e. possession. I keep hearing, (and this video was a good example of), but "I want to express myself. " A true Christian echoes Christ, meaning Christ is our example in all things. Listen to the Apostle Paul in his letter to the Galatians 2: 20 20)"I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; YET NOT I, but CHRIST liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith of the Son of God, who loved me ,and gave Himself for me. " (emphasis supplied) Lucifer once led the heavenly choir, who do you think is in charge of the the MUSIC WORLD here on earth, ever since his fall? You CANNOT serve two masters. There is NO COMPROMISE; no MIDDLE ROAD. To take rap or rock or pop or soul or what is oddly enough called "Gospel " music and just add the name of Jesus to it does not make it Christian. I was approached repeatedly by a producer who wanted to add rap components to my lyrics. For me it was TOTALLY a no-brainer. You can go the way of Abel, who offered a pleasing offering unto God; or the way of Cain who offered what "he felt like" and displeased God. Jesus Christ gave His life for us; the Father gave us His own Son! Why, should we not render to The LORD our best? But, Christ does not coerce. He died so you might have a CHOICE. Believe me, i know whereof i speak . Be blessed.
Wow that was beautifully put, I hope you continue to make music and grow the genre. This reminds me of NF. He’s a Christian artist that shares his life through his songs. He talks about God in some of his songs but also shares his experience as a person. I have hope for the future that there will be more Christian artists like you and NF.
But the message led to God in all their struggles and how we needed a savior in this life. If you only gave your struggles and never got the answer to the struggle, why do we need the gospel. That's why worship is called worship because it's all about God. When you have a relationship with Christ you know He wants you to use your struggles to point hurting people to God.
my bruthaa!! didn't even know you was having a channel like this! long Time since we seen each! Love. Grace and Peace from Corpus Christi my bro in Christ!
Definitely an eye opener. I never thought of the Christian music industry being that way, because as you did I figured everyone was Christian. It upsets me in the fact that the industry wants to Cator to people who just want to listen to music to feel good ect. What ever happened to a persons personal issues or the cross that they bear. That’s something as a Christian everyone should have and it’s called “A testimony”. When a non Christian or Christian hears that a Christian struggles, it invokes how God walks with us and helps us to bear these crosses and to rely on him for strength. It’s all about ratings and ratings turns into money. Shame on the industry and this is sinful! Thank you for bringing this into the light. And I rejoice in the fact that you got out of it because it was not in line with your values and beliefs. May God continue to bless you and your family. And Continue to make real music with lines full of the truth. The Holy Spirit will use this as a way to prick someone heart.
I really loved this video! I also have that experience of urging others to listen to Christian artist that talk about real issues and they would rather listen to others that don’t have a biblical world view! Please keep doing what you are doing! I for one love to hear other testimonies and real life topics. Just don’t care much for profane language but you don’t do that which is good as well. Glad I took the time to listen to the whole video.
Yo I’ve never heard it from this perspective when you talked about not trying to leverage the gospel message to finesse money. That’s such a valuable perspective
Dude, listening to you speak with such wisdom and maturity is refreshing. I aspire to have your level of wisdom and deep spirituality. Thank you for the great content.
Thanks, glad you found it helpful. Please don't forget to sub + hit the bell. I also released a Pt. 2 where I go deeper and answer specific questions and comments. Enjoy! ua-cam.com/video/3VaEOZ4p4rQ/v-deo.html
Thank you for this! I recently wrote a poetry book & write two gospel songs. I have been nervous, and second guessing how my book will be received because it talks about LIFE. As opposed to how my two songs will be received by fellow Christian’s. ❤
I was there working in an arm of Christian music of the 90s when all of the Christian labels were taken over by large record labels like Time Warner, BMG, Columbia, etc.. Before then the focus was not so much on the money but the singers faith in Christ and the message. But there definitely was some staunch boxes and standards. The problem was that the companies that took over pretty much did so because back then they saw that country music and Christian music were probably going to be the next big genres and they wanted to own it. There is more to it but that is one of the main reasons. A lot of artists left the "Industry" but still write, record and put out their music on independent or their own labels and a lot were dropped because these companies really did not care what you believed, what you preached, etc.. It was about control and money. And BTW music in America as whole was taken over and formulized back then. Some today question if any of the Christian artists can be on these labels without being compromised. That is the reason for some of the disconnect you experienced. The people who run the labels and the industry aren't even Christians. But God has his people everywhere. Most of the artists love doing the music and being able to share Christ but hate the industry side. Some of these labels also put out music in other genres that is some of the worst and sickest music out there. There is the question of being unequally yoked. Part of the game is that if you can get to where you make money for the industry you have a lot more leeway with what you say in your songs but there are still boundaries. So I hear what you are saying and it is true. But God is bigger than any industry and can use those whose are His anywhere. God knows the hearts and all of it will be revealed in time. In the end there really is no Christian business or industry, Christians are the people wherever they are.
Thank you for writing this, I here is testimony but not telling everything. He wants to tell his testimony and if He is faithful God will make room for Him.
You speak facts, I listen to artists that I resonate with like lecrae, NF, disciple, the band red, and so on they all have the gospel message and talk about real life issues at the same time
This was truly refreshing! I’m an artist of the painting and poetry variety and I took a ‘mentorship’ with another Christian artist and I was totally shocked that it was basically a word of faith god is my genie to make me money program. If I cared about that I would have done a secular marketing course. They seemed too enamoured with the ‘celebrity’ status and I walked away. I’m going to have a time of reflection on what you said about being yourself, authenticity and integrity is missing in this world and people are craving it.
Very well said. I agree with everything you say. The answer for me personally is that I have arranged things so that I don’t have a need to make money from my music. You would be amazed at the degree of artistic freedom you can have as a Christian artist if you don’t need to turn cash. It really is true that you can’t serve both God and Mammon. Why should that be a surprise to us?
WOW, this seems to be blowing up, thanks. If you find this interesting and want more insight & resources into Artistry & Entrepreneurship from a Biblical worldview, sign up for my weekly newsletter; bit.ly/3puOoGB
I totally understand the disappointment & surprise brother (I have experienced some of my own also) .💖As JESUS cautions us in The Bible "Be wise as serpents but harmless as doves" (Matthew 10:16) even in the Christian music industry. Wishing you many blessings in HIS name.🙏
Thank You for the break down. I pray that this will help to bring much needed change to how we use our talents and still walk in the faith, without feeling like we have to give up our artistic expression, and put it in a neat box .
I into this with a lot of skepticism. I was curious to hear a point view I didn't agree with. But I must say, that was very well stated. Well said Shopé!
I can see why you would hsve issues being a Christian artist. Seems like you were more into yourself and what you wanted to do than having the selfless heart needed for ministry. Theres many issues within the Christian music industry. To try to denegrate Christian music when you wanted to feed your desires is 'interesting'
@@Dahverin-kk4on Arrogant much? He is telling what his experience in the industry was. Even Donnie McClurkin is calling the Christian Music industry! SMH!
This video was exceptionally well explained and so detailed on so many topics that, I myself, as a new follower of Christ was having percolating in my mind. Very well done in explanation, delivery and informational content as well as relatability. You have gained a new subscriber. :)
This is great bro!! I am in the mindset that we just need to be available enough for GOD to be available for society. Ain't no boxing who GOD is still in process of shaping! ✊🏾🥶
Thank you, as a artist who has faith in Christ I relate, everybody wants to put me in a box of what my music should sound like , thank you for this encouragement
Agree! It is also a way to reach out to the unsaved if you just make music about what you’re going through. When I wasn’t saved and was going through a period of depression, the song that I had on repeat was ‘I look to you’ by Whitney Houston. It comforted me. 3 years later I become a born again Christian.
Thank you so much you g man for having the boldness and grace to post ghis. It reminds me of the many ungodly things i saw/heard within the church. I went to sing for a prophet at a revival when i was a teen. He took his girlfriend with him. I slept in the room with her. I woke up ari 2am and she was no where to be found. She ended up getting pregnant by him as well as one high school senior. His organist also got a senior girl pregnant and they married. It broke her grandad heart and he died soon after. So we must be careful and always trythe spirit by the spirit and see if it be of God.
@@allofshope This is so true. That's why it's so important that we take time to study God's Word for ourselves to be approved unto God (not man)that we may rightly know how to divide the word of truth. I always ask God and The Holy Spirit to teach me as I study God's Word. We both know that the blind cannot lead the blind or they will both fall into the ditch. We must watch as well as pray. God bless you with a healthy, long and blessed life. Thanks for your reply. Enjoy your day and life.
I've been a Christian rap poster child for quite some time now and I'm probably responsible for making some up and coming Christian artist feel pressured to make their music ministry based 😔 But since becoming a pastor at my church, I've had a change of heart about how a Christian artist should create their music. The role of pastor and artist are NOT THE SAME and should NEVER be viewed as such. If you feel lead to preach through your music, GREAT! You feel led because God has gifted you to do so. If you feel led to create music about your real life, human experiences through the lens of a believer, go for it! As long as your music doesn't misrepresent your faith or Christian morals, do it in peace! This video was great and I 1000% agree with you bro. I won't be leaving the Christian Hip Hop scene but I will be expanding and coloring outside of the lines. God bless bro - Datin
Brother! Thanks for taking the time to watch and comment. You nailed it - we can explore but not misrepresent our faith. The Lord is maturing and chiselling all of us. 🙏🏾
I appreciate you sharing your experience and wisdom here! I have a desire to create Christian music, but going through performer coaching has made me weary of the industry. I don't want to play to the politics and limitations set by the people who run the industry. I want to talk about anything I've experienced in life and be free, just like you're aspiring to do.
Switchfoot, Needtobreathe, Relient K and Skillet, are christian artists that don't regularly mention the name of God or Jesus in their songs, and their songs are not inherently christian, but what really is that the artist (singiner) is a follower of Christ!!
So downright true, the formal gospel music industry is to some degree a hoax. My frustrations is in the level at which we've watered down godly principles for the sake of fame, money and ego. We've like the world made untouchables or "gospel" music artists celebrities. A danger to not florick with. Let me be vulnerable here a bit, I noticed that looking at my past and the things I accessed on the internet, it was easier to download x-rated videos that it is to even access or download gospel songs. The culture of singing biblical strong messages has fizzled out. You could have someone today compose a song with just two lines and sing such song for eight minutes. It's crappy at best what we have in Church. Thank goodness we've not thrown away the Puritan hymns. Thanks Sir, for the information.
Awesome 👊🏾 Brother Shopé Where I come from I've had to watch so many gospel artists lose their faith and metamorphose into scandalous, outright godless "secular" artists because of the love of fame and money 🤑💸 Which informs me that when you start you better count the cost, know your priorities ( get ya mind right) as they say... Because even amongst the Preachers; some have commercialised the message and lost the way. Ya can't serve Ha'YAH and serve Mammon. Be encouraged Shopé you may not be famous yet, but at least you still got your soul intact: like King David, a Man after God's own heart; or else be like King Saul, a Man for the people: gain the world and lose the irreplaceable.
Brother, I've been wondering if anyone would ever say this. You perfectly captured what I've been been expressing to my colleagues about the industry for quite a while. Keep pushing Brother. I hope to meet you one day and have a long talk about this. Until then, keep "preaching" the message of who we are really as artists that God has put here for His purpose, not mans. Blessings to you!
We were meant to Glorify God with our bodies and not to allow anyone break and control our frequency with Our Heavenly Father, his Son and the Holy Spirit
Agree with SO MUCH of this. I checked out of Christian music myself and feel like I have far more opportunities to be salt and light now with my music.
The Christian music genre is one of my least favorite genres. It just amazes me how someone can worship an all-powerful, limitless God, and yet they create something so bland and uninspired. Christian art should be the standard, not making cheap knock-offs of secular music.
That lost point was so good. I resonate with that. I remember when people kept suggesting to me that I could monetize a blog and write on topics from a Christian worldview. Immediately I felt that if I was to begin that, I'd start farming money. It wouldn't feel genuine... Even if I really want to spread the message and encourage people, I would feel obligated to post, I'd begin to obsess over numbers, I'd probably start modifying the content to optimize viewer engagement, consumption, growth, etc. I just knew it would be unhealthy for me. All the while recognizing role models like Tim Challies who runs a sound Christian blog without expressively having the same conscience pick as I. More power to him, more strength to you as well. I really enjoyed the video.
Man that crazy because when I do music I just talk about my life and how I'm feeling at the same time I bring God into my music .. the artist NF man I feel God when I hear that man ..
🚨Watch Pt. 2, where I respond to a number of comments here: ua-cam.com/video/3VaEOZ4p4rQ/v-deo.html
Right. You are spot on with the "soccer mom" categorization. That's what we see on the flip side of the equation on the Christian radio scene. I miss the old days when Air 1, for example, used to play edgier Christian rock.
God bless you, beautiful child of God.
you could take this video one to one to christian churches and prayer groups. thats the reason why i left all christian meetings. i do it solo, i started solo, i will finish it solo. thats all i have to say i dont know how you are or if i like you. just the video itself was informative
@@DerKnusperhase There are good churches out there. I encourage you to find one because we weren't designed to walk this faith alone. "And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near." Hebrews 10:24-25
@@allofshope sir i thank u for ur warm and true words. you are right. but not everybody has the same blessing in all kinds of situations. im 33. since i get new born i had 2 short relationships and 1 friend. since 6 years or so completley alone. i have to admit that i like it actually. im so used to be alone im sure i would say to the perfect woman a male friend or even a church just no. not because of bitterness or hate just because im so used to be alone.
The world doesn't need any more "Christian artists"....the world needs more artists who are Christian.
Agreed! 👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽
Amen👏🙏💪
💯
👏🏾
Amen to your comment.
I DO RECOMMEND YOU LISTEN AND WORSHIP WITH "mercy" BY " joy fak"..ITS AN INSPIRATIONAL SONG THAT TALKS ABOUT THE GOODNEES & MERCIES OF GOD....
I also left many years ago because in private they do everything secular artists do. I'll remain independent because I can do what God's word instructs instead of the world.
Many won't get this. Praying for you sir! 🙏🏾
@@allofshope thank you...
@thewordrappergma7713 what was something they spoke on?
You're in the right right right right PATH!
But it's good to be you and stop looking up to others sometimes
You would have not quick and be unique and be an example to others in gospel music ministry
Having been a youth in the 80's - 90s I remember A LOT of solid, Scripture-based messaging in Christian music, thirty or more years later the general messaging does seem completely different. The focus is largely on the self, making money first and promotion with the goal of accommodating the world and modern narratives.
I have stopped listening to almost all the mainstream music I grew up with and loved.
It's sad even the "Christian" industry is so messed up and guiding people astray, further from The Lord instead of closer to Him.
Christian music as music should be designed to worship Him, not the things of the world, but it's all run by the same people, so not so surprising.😢
I knew a Jack Jones back in the day, I wonder if it's you😂 That'd be a trip
So in other words you utilize the worldly industry which is run by the devil, to make money, while putting you faith on the shelf a minute.
Did you not know that there are only two sides in this world. There is NO lukewarm. The Lukewarm folk GOD Vomits out Read Revelation 3 about the laodicean church.
If you are doing both secular music and the worshipping Christ you are serving two masters. The Bible says you CAN NOT serve two masters Matthew 6:24. Make up your mind sir, okay. THE LORD’S return draws nigh.
satan has deceived you my friend. All music involves a spirit of worship. Music will either cause you to serve GOD or the devil. There is NO in between. The Bible says in Colossians 3:17“ whatsoever you do, in word or deed, do all in The Name of JESUS.
Sir , we are NOT down here to stay. It is not about a bumper sticker, which says whoever dies with the most toys wins! But we are here to make a choice, ‘WHERE SHALL WE SPEND ETERNITY’? Life in this realm may last up to 100years or so, BUT that is still a drop in the bucket compared to ETERNITY.
WE are here to make The Right choice . Because wherever death catches us, ETERNITY will hold us!
I will be praying for you okay , because I really do care.
I don't know if you recall a fairly popular Gospel husband/wife duo in the early 90's called Angelo and Veronica, but they now have a UA-cam Channel and Church called Higher Place Ministries explaining why they opted out and virtually disappeared by the late 90's even though their music was highly annointed and amazing. I always wondered why they didn't have the staying power that a lot of others did. Evidently, this was all going on back then too, just a little more hidden and they call out many Pastors and Artists who are down with these dark societies including Yolanda Adams, Kirk Franklin, Amy Grant, and others and they speak from experience. I think the issue is now here in the last days they are barely trying to hide anything.
ABSOLUTELY!
Same, Here.
I know this is about 4 months ago and im only 16, but i'm literally going to school and writing music for the soul purpose of being seperate from that industry. Then i come across this video. This is a godsend Shopé, thanks for encouraging me, and may God keep you safe on this journey. You're doing God's work helping out new potential christian artists❤
That's a blessing to hear you found this encouraging. Stay close to the Lord first and foremost...above the music. Stay in a good community of faith. Then let that close relationship with the Lord give you the freedom to make the music He's placed on your heart.
@@allofshope Thank you for that Shopé. I absolutely will keep close with the faith and share the music that He's placed on my heart.
AGREE......
I’m so glad I ran across this video. Thank youuuuu!
@@allofshope earlier in the video you mentioned some new sub cultures if Christian music with a broader scope. Can you please point me on the right direction so that I can learn more about those sub cultures?
Respectfully
I appreciate the insight this young man has to share. I'm honesty on the fence, I mean from the heart all you should want to even DO is preach about God, so that people understand Him. And, whether or not that ends up catering only to a certain audience that crossing over would allow you to expand on, its still my duty to sing about God and the gospel. Again, yes you can share your experiences and how God brought you through, and that can tie into the Gospel without looking like you just want Christian followers. The end goal is sharing your life thru a GOD'S PURPOSE lens. You can't convert anyone, but all you can do is sing of God, and He'll let that reach the wider audience, without you needing to cater to them through adding to your message. At the end of the day, preach the Gospel and all that God Himself puts on your heart, no adding or subtracting from the Gospel, and He'll show it to the people He needs to show it to. God bless you for sharing your story and God bless His people.❤
I appreciate you making this video and will check out your music. Last year, shit got real. Being a disciple of Jesus is not easy or comfortable. No one can convince me that denying myself, taking of my cross, and following Jesus will be always happy, painless, easy. There will be times of great joy and great sorrow, but following Jesus will always be worthwhile despite the struggle.
Might have to pin this comment! All facts!!! 🙌🏾
I have been writing songs for 35 plus years and what I have learned IS WAIT ON THE LORD. I put a CD out in 2001 on my own i got good responses. But it was not time yet PEOPLE tried to push me TO do many things. I am NOT trying to BE a star or a million aire I am content with the things I have. I will continue to wait on the LORD. And ALWAYS CHECK WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT HE WILL LEAD AND GUIDE YOU INTO THE TRUTH. DONT let mankind deceive you.
Sounds like my story. Bless You... Do you have any music available now??
@@gregorydavis100 CD is titled Gods greatest love.
35 years, you're a mentor. These artists need mentors like or as you.
needed this!
"I could not reconcile my desire for financial gain from my music with using the Gospel message as a means of achieving it."... This has ALWAYS been my conviction!
This video resonated heavily with me! Appreciate your transparency bro!
My bro!!! You are LEGIT a legend to me. I feel you man.
P.S. We gotta get one this year 👊🏾
I have a different perspective. I don’t see how this is different than a full-time pastor or teacher or evangelist making their income preaching the gospel. 🤷🏼♀️
@@OHsopositiveI don’t think spreading the message should ever be something paid for. I think this is where communities are important. In the Bible when Yah set the Israelites up in the promise land he explicitly didn’t give the levites an inheritance but told the rest of the community to pay a tithe of food or money so that they were cared for. That’s how it should be pastors and preachers should be cared for by the community because what they do is a community service. It shouldn’t be seen as a profession or a job. It’s a life calling and the people are to assist with that.
@@nonnieJ94 That’s still being paid for. Whether it’s in food or money, God is giving them something in return of their service. Also Pastors and Priest are jobs. They held their own unique title for the work they did and many dedicate their entire lives to it. No side jobs.
We also wouldn’t follow the exact rules of Israelites since that was made specifically for a nation. But rather what Paul says in we should be giving back to our Pastors and those who spread the Gospel with money.
“If we have sown spiritual things among you, is it too much if we reap material things from you?” 1 Cor. 9:11
Do you write music or someone else too
I got saved at 18 back in 2004. Loved all kinds of music but struggled with Christian music for the same reasons you talked about. It was like, “Oh, I want to worship or be encouraged? Put on the Christian stuff.” But when it came to dealing with stuff I was dealing with in my past or whatever I’d default back to groups like Linkin Park or Evanescence because they were actually singing about that kind of stuff. I love finding “mainstream” or indie artists that are Christian but who sing about more than just the typical things you’d hear on stations like K Love. Much respect for recognizing the conviction that the Holy Spirit laid on your heart and acting in obedience. I feel like we need more faithful believers making good non-typical music (if that makes sense). I’ll have to give your stuff a listen!
Thanks, I appreciate it. It's definitely needed!
Linkin Park speaks about real life struggles and emotions so many deal with.
Linkin Park and evinessence = dark despair and depression
Excellent video. In addition... many "Christian" songs are written, composed, and the music created and recorded by the same artists that work at the same secular studios. The Christian singer just adds the voice. It's the same "music business". - This man is an exception!!!
I really love this bro I am a Christian artist and have been making songs you won’t typically hear in the church but it talks about the struggles in life and heartbreak. Love your breakdown
That’s amazing man. Keep making the music you feel you’ve been called to make.
But people need to know what God did in that struggle, or as Christian do we leave the people with know way out. I know we talk about the struggle but I know Christ not church folk have always been the one that help me thru the struggle so that I can help others know what to do, not just struggle after struggle with no one pointing us to what God did in the struggle, if we let Him do anything, or just dealt with it ourselves. Just sharing. It's all about Jesus, 2 chronicles 7:14 is what God wants from His people, He should lead us in EVERYTHING.
@@sherrelshepard4590 AMÉN 🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌
This man rare of breed ua-cam.com/video/CdDwR7FKmNs/v-deo.html is great u can feel it
Good for you brother! I spent 28 years as a Pastor’s wife. That’s a whole other “show”. People only want you to make THEM feel good and bring in money for THEM. They really don’t care what’s going on with you. Sad but true. Good luck to you!
That is Christendom for you. Churches are leading many souls to their destruction. Hence the reason Jesus Christ said 💎John 17:3; 💎Matthew 7:13, 14, 21. Christendom don’t follow or adhere to Bible principles/teachings or live up to the standards of Jesus’s Father Jehovah. Christendom don’t know either one of them even though Jesus said once again 💎John 17:3; 💎John 14:6; 💎John 6:44, 65. Simply put, Christendom (Churches) don’t know the truth as written in God’s word and so they worship and practice their form of worship that is not SCRIPTURAL. THIS IS WHY THEY ARE A HOT MESS. UTTER CHAOS AND CONFUSION BECAUSE CHRIST IS NOT THE ONE LEADING THE BODY. SATAN THE DEVIL IS...THE RULER OF THIS WORLD
💎 1 John 5:19, the father of the lie 💎John 8:44. The sooner Christendom figure this out and learn who Jesus Christ and his Father is and start studying Scriptures as along with reading it, the better off Christendom will be. But they won't get it. So prepare for a very rude awakening when Jesus return to judge the earth🤷🏿♀️. I SAID WHAT I SAID.
A real messenger of God will teach whole truth.
It's not really people that are the issue, hope yall realize this.
The Bible says to reward people who sow spiritual things in us
I understand completely sis. Hope that all this evil doesn't change your faith that only the true believers of Christ receive eternal life. God heal you. 🕊️✝️🙏
You have proven what I've realized for many years now: there are a lot of hip hop "Christian" artists who are brand new Christians thinking they can immediately go out and evangelize in their own way like chickens w/ their heads cut off; end up experiencing truly non-Christians in the Christian music industry; and end up leaving the industry or the faith altogether. Others, like Lecrae, still have one foot in the industry and push false doctrines & heresies and get upset when their Christian base rejects them. People like yourself need a Christian mentorship source in that space. And when I say Christian w/o quotes, I mean a real Christian.
Facts, too new and don't have a deep understanding of what Christians need. Or what it means to be Christian. He clearly doesn't understand what it means to be of the world yet.
What false doctrines and heresies Lacrea push? I'm just curious
Please….explain lecraes “false doctrine”…
All truth
I understand what you are saying. You really need to put God first before you miss lead a lot of people that may not know the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Get a regular job okay. If you're not going to do Gospel anymore then don't miss lead anyone else that want to go into Gospel Music.
You need to on in Secular Music. Praying for you Sir and
Most importantly so sorry for your experience with the Gospel Music World.🙏😢
I write worship songs about things I have gone through in my life and I think it is so needed for people to hear songs from dark times and how God is there through everything and helps us through those times.
Amen. It’s needed.
Hello
Yes, it is needed but people would rather praise the singer rather than give praise to God. They believe in God, but don’t believe in Jesus and what they read in the Bible. We must not be lukewarm. We must believe that we have fallen and are sinners and in need of a savior and that savior is Jesus Christ. Jesus is the way, the truth, and the light.
“Jesus *said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.”
John 14:6 NASB1995
🙏🏽
You knocked this out of the park. Hit every nail on the head. I hope this gives insight to others who aren't familiar with the music industry in general. I hope other artists that see this have the courage to speak up and find freedom in their messages. Great content!
Yes, yes, yes!
This tears me in 2 directions. 1, I couldn’t agree more with everything you said. 2, I’m broken by the reality that Christians don’t do a better job at balancing the faith and the business.
You are a positive in my life and many others.
Keep doing you Shopé!
Shared!
Thanks so much Joel for your continued support and understanding. You’re a positive in my life
Keep God word in the center in all you do. Now don’t let them pimp you out, clean hands and a pure heart. God is not In a box, so grow in his grace hear his voice and walk by his heart beat.
Shalom
This is a jewel! So rare to find "understanding" given so eloquent a voice and so intelligent a transmission. I doff my hat. A real gem in the body of Christ is this brother.
Glory to God, thank you for watching and subscribing! 🙏🏾
Thank you for this truth that GOD has called you to share with the world because there a number of recording artists who will be faced with the same thing that you've encountered as well. Please know that we love playing your music on SAVE Radio which plays the Pinnacle in "Positive Hip Hop, Pop and R&B" music! Continue to shed HIS LIGHT my brother!!!
Your support means the world fam. Truly appreciate you. Please don’t forget to sub + hit the bell.
Fear God
100% agree and has been my exact journey as a producer and artist. Dope to find someone with the same experience
You literally explained so many things I’ve thought about for so many years. Your doing something great with your music and your channel!
Thanks so much for your kind words! Appreciate you.
Thank you for bringing this out to the light. I've had a variety of experiences. In my teens I was a musician in the pop world then I got a opportunity in my twenties to work in the black-gospel world. I moved into the rock world in my 30s and 40s. I've since retired but the thing that disappointed me is with the gospel world I hoped that my Christian faith would be strengthened and grow and this is why I went from singing pop and rock to singing gospel. It was eye opening. It was an disturbing duality. You could be on stage and feel the holy Spirit moving and have some amazing moments but "backstage" it was the same as in rock and pop. The underbelly of the Christian music world is just like the secular music world. I think when you try to make real money from the music and you want exposure and record deals etc the same types of people are required to make that happen. Record labels, promoters, managers etc are not always Christians. They may plaster a "christian" sticker on your work and may claim to be like minded but they are just company men and money men and you are a product that's making money so that everyone gets paid. That is the point. G-d comes last! You can't sing about reality if you want to fill venues (church pews). There is a huge machine behind popular music regardless of the genre and that machine will roll over you if you don't play the game. Since I couldn't see the point in staying with something I felt was deceptive I went back to my roots. It was less complicated since I knew what was expected and no one was trying to manipulate a message for their own benefit.
You speak with a lot of kindness. Also your ability to put you experience into an understandable format is a gift. Like I can't explain my feelings like that. Liked and subbed.
Your words are so encouraging. Thanks for taking the time to share this with me. And thanks for subbing. More videos incoming.
Thanks for sharing.
Real recognize real.
Love your heart man of God. I’ve been a DJ on both sides. 1993 to 2008 Secular, 2008 to present Gospel. Some music feeds the flesh, and some feeds the spirit. I will rather put my attention to what I can do to feed people spirts. When you lead one person to
Jesus Christ with your music, you have done your job. Keep shining King!
I will continue to love and listen to the old Christian hymns I grew up singing in Church. Todays so-called "Christian music" has become alarmingly secular, and the artist, irreverent and heathenistic.
love from kenya shope. love the transparency. for someone who is a dancer and has came up within the christian space, i totally resonate with most of what you have shared. at the end of the day what is pure, honorable and worthy of praise will always point to the father. much love.
Agreed, much love to you too. Please don't forget to sub + hit the bell
Your a courageous brother! I have complete respect for you. This video was 100% on point…it’s all about Jesus !!!
The Lord's grace, thank you. Please don't forget to sub + hit the bell. 🙏🏾
Where there is money, there are wolves. You can't trust anyone anymore simply because they say that they're a Christian. By their fruits we will know them. It's a dangerous world, especially in the music business.
8:49 That caught me wayyy off guard xD
XD...stay on your toes, friend lol...appreciate you!
@@allofshope I appreciate you too! I'm a musician myself looking to have a great career in the secular music business, so videos like this one warning me of the pitfalls of it all are my fuel and education. So I thank you for sharing your experience.
So true
8:49 SAME💀🤣😭
I can relate so very much with this man you have no idea! I appreciate you for doing this.
You just gained a subscriber and a fan bro!
Glad that his helped you in some way. Keep pressing fam! Appreciate sub! 🙏🏾
Setting people free with this bro. I’ve always battled with that growing up, and now that I’m older and have did my own critical thinking-I came to the same conclusions. God bless 🙏🏾
Amen! Glad you found it helpful! Please don't forget to sub + hit the bell! 🙏🏾
Thank you for this! This has been my experience too. I am glad I found a way out and a way forward.
I don't know who you are but I am 66 years old and you encourage me. Your vocabulary is awesome it's so clear. I'm going to text my children this video. I am going to check out your music videos too.
Thank you so much, I truly appreciate your kind words. 🙏🏾
Extremely insightful! I really appreciate the honesty and candor...no where near as controversial as I imagined (incorrectly). THANKS, AND SUBSCRIBED!
Thanks for watching. The goal is first to be truthful & insightful not necessarily controversial. Sometimes truth can bring controversy and if/when that happens, the goal remains the same. Thanks for subbing also.
It’s hard to describe how relieved I am that there are people out there who also agree with this message. If anyone is looking for new music, or even just want to fellowship and do life together, that reflects this perfectly articulated message, I’m working on new music that will be coming soon. Much love to all of you
"Music is therapy". Amen! I fully agree with you. Great video! God bless you and I hope you have plenty of successes. :)
Very well said! We appreciate your vulnerability and we stand with you! Keep soaring boss 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽 this was needed
Thank you so much man! Truly appreciate it. Please sub + hit the bell if you haven’t already
Bro this video just opened my eyes. Singer here. Insight ON POINT. Thank you. Now I go find your music.
Appreciate you. I go into even more details in Pt. 2. ua-cam.com/video/3VaEOZ4p4rQ/v-deo.html
Took the words outta my mouth Shopé a new generation is coming where nuanced artists rise that’ll talk about everyday life from a heavenly perspective
This was great! I felt your point at the end about hiding your intellectualism. I found myself doing the same over the years. It feels so good to just be myself now.
@allofshope I really appreciate your video. I spent 15+ years as a mainstream touring musician in a rock band. I ultimately decided to hang up my professional pursuit because of all the ugliness behind the scenes. For many years I slipped faith-based messages into my lyrics even though it would be looked down upon by most of the mainstream. I've been wanting to write and release solo Christian music, but have been dragging my feet in doing so because of your 3rd point. I completely relate to the comment about seeking financial gains using the gospel.
Thanks for watching the full video and getting the whole context (many didn’t seem to).
Honestly, I personally couldn’t square the 2 away neatly in my conscience, so I separated my income from the gospel message. Not saying it can’t be done, just I personally couldn’t make it make sense in my head.
Keep seeking the Lord and examining your conscience. As a believer, the Holy Spirit will guide you into all truth.
P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t forget to sub + hit the bell.
HalleluyYAH brother your first point is so on point. This is how our creator is calling His people from this organised Christian organisation, to totally leave the entire Christendom and depend on YAH and His son Yahusha.
All glory to goes to Yah for your testimony!
Keep bringing us what The Most High puts on your heart.
Thank you for your words 🙏🏾
Yes! We are being separated....wheat and weeds... Goats from the sheep
Young man , i speak to you as a professional singer-songwriter on guitar, solo recording/performing artist,and to avoid all that business of the middle person; i signed nothing and represented myself. ...self-taught on guitar,etc. BUT ALWAYS AWARE: THAT THE GIFT CAME FROM JESUS CHRIST ABOVE ALL ELSE.
My music was pop,folk,blues,rock , middle-eastern. Yes , i am a "natural "
and literally, MADE IT TO THE TOP OF THE MUSIC WORLD.
Life started moving REALLY fast and I performed in all venues. BUT, i suddenly got a knock on the door of my heart from the Holy Spirit. It was a solemn warning INDEED. I kept performing, but i couldn't forget Jesus Christ. I was born and raised in the Seventh Day Adventist Church, daughter of a lay SDA preacher and missionary.
I chose to return to the LORD, and started writing and performing at Church again for the ONE who gave me the gift. There is NO COMPROMISE, when it comes to God either you serve Him or you don't; there's no middle road.
My advice is straight from God's Holy Bible, because you cannot argue with a, "thus saith the LORD ".
If you are to be a "true Christian "- follower of Jesus Christ, then your music must be "an echo" of heavenly music; not hip-hop,or any of the aforementioned genres.
"And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me." -John12:32
"Behold ,I stand at the door ,and knock: if any man hear my voice,and open the door, I will come into him,and will sup with him, and he with me." -Revelation3:20
"And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, chose ye this day whom ye will serve, ...but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD. "
- Joshua24 :15
Finally from King Solomon: (since you say that not everything in the Holy Bible is:
JESUS, JESUS JESUS; GUESS WHAT?!)
"Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God,and keep His commandments: for THIS IS THE WHOLE DUTY OF MAN."
-Ecclesiastes 12:13
I pray this will help you understand, because dear Brother, JESUS CHRIST ABOVE ALL ELSE is about to Return.
Many Blessings to you and yours. 🎶⏰
@The Word Rapper GMA
I don't think so. Imagine, if you stand before the LORD 'S glory, His throne; would you DARE break out rapping?
I think not,because it would be the equivalent of Led Zepplin trying to perform their Satanic Rock verses.
I have heard the testimony of many a former rapper who returned to the LORD. What has made the litany of rap is syncopated rhythms mixed with talk which they confessed, they said was coming from some other spirit, i.e. possession.
I keep hearing, (and this video was a good example of), but "I want to express myself. "
A true Christian echoes Christ, meaning Christ is our example in all things.
Listen to the Apostle Paul in his letter to the Galatians 2:
20
20)"I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; YET NOT I,
but CHRIST liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith of the Son of God, who loved me ,and gave Himself for me. "
(emphasis supplied)
Lucifer once led the heavenly choir, who do you think is in charge of the the MUSIC WORLD here on earth, ever since his fall? You CANNOT serve two masters. There is NO COMPROMISE; no MIDDLE ROAD.
To take rap or rock or pop or soul or what is oddly enough called "Gospel " music and just add the name of Jesus to it does not make it Christian.
I was approached repeatedly by a producer who wanted to add rap components to my lyrics. For me it was TOTALLY a no-brainer.
You can go the way of Abel, who offered a pleasing offering unto God; or the way of Cain who offered what "he felt like" and displeased God.
Jesus Christ gave His life for us; the Father gave us His own Son!
Why, should we not render to The LORD our best?
But, Christ does not coerce. He died so you might have a CHOICE.
Believe me, i know whereof i speak .
Be blessed.
@@sanctuary70beautiful message, I learned somethings alll praise to the Most High God🕊️🕊️🕊️
Wow that was beautifully put, I hope you continue to make music and grow the genre. This reminds me of NF. He’s a Christian artist that shares his life through his songs. He talks about God in some of his songs but also shares his experience as a person. I have hope for the future that there will be more Christian artists like you and NF.
I know the feeling; its real ones still out there
But the message led to God in all their struggles and how we needed a savior in this life. If you only gave your struggles and never got the answer to the struggle, why do we need the gospel. That's why worship is called worship because it's all about God. When you have a relationship with Christ you know He wants you to use your struggles to point hurting people to God.
Definitely. It’s in the video.
Shopé, this is so so good! Thanks for being so open and thoughtful as a believer!
It’s the Lord’s grace, thank you. Glad you found this helpful.
As a chh artist myself man I respect your stance. Love the content. Keep pushing!
Appreciate you fam. Follow your conviction.
my bruthaa!! didn't even know you was having a channel like this! long Time since we seen each! Love. Grace and Peace from Corpus Christi my bro in Christ!
Long time Richie, thanks for watching!
Most Christians are serving a God they do not know. May God have mercy on us all
Definitely an eye opener. I never thought of the Christian music industry being that way, because as you did I figured everyone was Christian. It upsets me in the fact that the industry wants to Cator to people who just want to listen to music to feel good ect. What ever happened to a persons personal issues or the cross that they bear. That’s something as a Christian everyone should have and it’s called “A testimony”. When a non Christian or Christian hears that a Christian struggles, it invokes how God walks with us and helps us to bear these crosses and to rely on him for strength. It’s all about ratings and ratings turns into money. Shame on the industry and this is sinful! Thank you for bringing this into the light. And I rejoice in the fact that you got out of it because it was not in line with your values and beliefs. May God continue to bless you and your family. And Continue to make real music with lines full of the truth. The Holy Spirit will use this as a way to prick someone heart.
The fact that there's a "Christian Music Industry" IS the dark side. There's a difference in praising and creating an Industry to make profit.
Dude your right I’m with you. It’s the way we walk. Stay strong brother stay strong
Likewise, brother! Appreciate you 🙏🏾
I really loved this video! I also have that experience of urging others to listen to Christian artist that talk about real issues and they would rather listen to others that don’t have a biblical world view! Please keep doing what you are doing! I for one love to hear other testimonies and real life topics. Just don’t care much for profane language but you don’t do that which is good as well. Glad I took the time to listen to the whole video.
Appreciate you watching the full video. And glad you found it insightful. Please don’t forget to sub + hit the bell if you haven’t.
Yo I’ve never heard it from this perspective when you talked about not trying to leverage the gospel message to finesse money. That’s such a valuable perspective
Glad you found it helpful. Blessings brother!
Please don’t forget to sub + hit the bell 🙏🏾
Dude, listening to you speak with such wisdom and maturity is refreshing. I aspire to have your level of wisdom and deep spirituality. Thank you for the great content.
Thanks, glad you found it helpful. Please don't forget to sub + hit the bell. I also released a Pt. 2 where I go deeper and answer specific questions and comments. Enjoy! ua-cam.com/video/3VaEOZ4p4rQ/v-deo.html
This was so helpful to watch, Thank you for sharing!
Thank you for this! I recently wrote a poetry book & write two gospel songs. I have been nervous, and second guessing how my book will be received because it talks about LIFE. As opposed to how my two songs will be received by fellow Christian’s. ❤
I'm sorry about what you went through but I'm glad you're speaking out about it. Keep doing what you do to please the Lord. You have my support.
Appreciate you!
I was there working in an arm of Christian music of the 90s when all of the Christian labels were taken over by large record labels like Time Warner, BMG, Columbia, etc.. Before then the focus was not so much on the money but the singers faith in Christ and the message. But there definitely was some staunch boxes and standards. The problem was that the companies that took over pretty much did so because back then they saw that country music and Christian music were probably going to be the next big genres and they wanted to own it. There is more to it but that is one of the main reasons. A lot of artists left the "Industry" but still write, record and put out their music on independent or their own labels and a lot were dropped because these companies really did not care what you believed, what you preached, etc.. It was about control and money. And BTW music in America as whole was taken over and formulized back then. Some today question if any of the Christian artists can be on these labels without being compromised. That is the reason for some of the disconnect you experienced. The people who run the labels and the industry aren't even Christians. But God has his people everywhere. Most of the artists love doing the music and being able to share Christ but hate the industry side. Some of these labels also put out music in other genres that is some of the worst and sickest music out there. There is the question of being unequally yoked. Part of the game is that if you can get to where you make money for the industry you have a lot more leeway with what you say in your songs but there are still boundaries. So I hear what you are saying and it is true. But God is bigger than any industry and can use those whose are His anywhere. God knows the hearts and all of it will be revealed in time. In the end there really is no Christian business or industry, Christians are the people wherever they are.
Thank you for writing this, I here is testimony but not telling everything. He wants to tell his testimony and if He is faithful God will make room for Him.
This is so true
this resonated so heavily with me. thank you for your transparency🙏🏾
You speak facts, I listen to artists that I resonate with like lecrae, NF, disciple, the band red, and so on they all have the gospel message and talk about real life issues at the same time
This was truly refreshing! I’m an artist of the painting and poetry variety and I took a ‘mentorship’ with another Christian artist and I was totally shocked that it was basically a word of faith god is my genie to make me money program. If I cared about that I would have done a secular marketing course. They seemed too enamoured with the ‘celebrity’ status and I walked away. I’m going to have a time of reflection on what you said about being yourself, authenticity and integrity is missing in this world and people are craving it.
Very well said. I agree with everything you say. The answer for me personally is that I have arranged things so that I don’t have a need to make money from my music. You would be amazed at the degree of artistic freedom you can have as a Christian artist if you don’t need to turn cash. It really is true that you can’t serve both God and Mammon. Why should that be a surprise to us?
Great insight. There’s definitely artistic freedom in being financially free.
WOW, this seems to be blowing up, thanks. If you find this interesting and want more insight & resources into Artistry & Entrepreneurship from a Biblical worldview, sign up for my weekly newsletter; bit.ly/3puOoGB
Amen brother recognizing our sin is necessary in order to work on fixing it
Amen! 🙏🏾
A lot do know already! Thank goodness.
I totally understand the disappointment & surprise brother (I have experienced some of my own also) .💖As JESUS cautions us in The Bible "Be wise as serpents but harmless as doves" (Matthew 10:16) even in the Christian music industry. Wishing you many blessings in HIS name.🙏
Thank You for the break down. I pray that this will help to bring much needed change to how we use our talents and still walk in the faith, without feeling like we have to give up our artistic expression, and put it in a neat box .
I into this with a lot of skepticism. I was curious to hear a point view I didn't agree with. But I must say, that was very well stated. Well said Shopé!
I appreciate you watching the full thing before crystallizing your opinion. Thanks for watching. Sub + Hit the bell if you're so inclined.
@@allofshope done, sir! God bless you!
@@engynot Appreciate you. The Lord bless you too.
I can see why you would hsve issues being a Christian artist. Seems like you were more into yourself and what you wanted to do than having the selfless heart needed for ministry. Theres many issues within the Christian music industry. To try to denegrate Christian music when you wanted to feed your desires is 'interesting'
@@Dahverin-kk4on Arrogant much? He is telling what his experience in the industry was. Even Donnie McClurkin is calling the Christian Music industry! SMH!
This is my go to video
This video gave me answers to long standing questions
When it comes to listening to music
Glad to hear this and thanks for taking the time to watch & comment. Please don't forget to sub (+ hit the bell) if you haven't.
This video was exceptionally well explained and so detailed on so many topics that, I myself, as a new follower of Christ was having percolating in my mind.
Very well done in explanation, delivery and informational content as well as relatability.
You have gained a new subscriber. :)
Blessings fam. Grow in grace, wisdom and maturity
This is great bro!! I am in the mindset that we just need to be available enough for GOD to be available for society. Ain't no boxing who GOD is still in process of shaping! ✊🏾🥶
Well said!
Thank you, as a artist who has faith in Christ I relate, everybody wants to put me in a box of what my music should sound like , thank you for this encouragement
So much value in this bro. Proud you
I see you g! Keep shining 👊🏾
Agree! It is also a way to reach out to the unsaved if you just make music about what you’re going through. When I wasn’t saved and was going through a period of depression, the song that I had on repeat was ‘I look to you’ by Whitney Houston. It comforted me. 3 years later I become a born again Christian.
Im glad I found your channel 🙏🏾
Appreciate you for joining 🙏🏾
Thank you so much you g man for having the boldness and grace to post ghis. It reminds me of the many ungodly things i saw/heard within the church. I went to sing for a prophet at a revival when i was a teen. He took his girlfriend with him. I slept in the room with her. I woke up ari 2am and she was no where to be found. She ended up getting pregnant by him as well as one high school senior. His organist also got a senior girl pregnant and they married. It broke her grandad heart and he died soon after. So we must be careful and always trythe spirit by the spirit and see if it be of God.
Indeed. Sadly a lot of people professing the name of the Lord don't know Him.
@@allofshope This is so true. That's why it's so important that we take time to study God's Word for ourselves to be approved unto God (not man)that we may rightly know how to divide the word of truth. I always ask God and The Holy Spirit to teach me as I study God's Word. We both know that the blind cannot lead the blind or they will both fall into the ditch. We must watch as well as pray. God bless you with a healthy, long and blessed life. Thanks for your reply. Enjoy your day and life.
Thank you for this video bro. As a fellow artist and Christian this was much needed to hear. God bless 🙏🏾
I've been a Christian rap poster child for quite some time now and I'm probably responsible for making some up and coming Christian artist feel pressured to make their music ministry based 😔 But since becoming a pastor at my church, I've had a change of heart about how a Christian artist should create their music. The role of pastor and artist are NOT THE SAME and should NEVER be viewed as such. If you feel lead to preach through your music, GREAT! You feel led because God has gifted you to do so. If you feel led to create music about your real life, human experiences through the lens of a believer, go for it! As long as your music doesn't misrepresent your faith or Christian morals, do it in peace! This video was great and I 1000% agree with you bro. I won't be leaving the Christian Hip Hop scene but I will be expanding and coloring outside of the lines. God bless bro - Datin
Brother! Thanks for taking the time to watch and comment.
You nailed it - we can explore but not misrepresent our faith.
The Lord is maturing and chiselling all of us. 🙏🏾
I appreciate you sharing your experience and wisdom here! I have a desire to create Christian music, but going through performer coaching has made me weary of the industry. I don't want to play to the politics and limitations set by the people who run the industry. I want to talk about anything I've experienced in life and be free, just like you're aspiring to do.
Switchfoot, Needtobreathe, Relient K and Skillet, are christian artists that don't regularly mention the name of God or Jesus in their songs, and their songs are not inherently christian, but what really is that the artist (singiner) is a follower of Christ!!
🎯🎯🎯
Twenty One Pilots as well, especially the older stuff
The Holy Ghost will always encourage a Christian to evangelize in some way. Claiming to be Christian is not Christian
I started in gospel, it’s deeper than was explained here. It’s a extremity that far succeeds 😢this…
So downright true, the formal gospel music industry is to some degree a hoax.
My frustrations is in the level at which we've watered down godly principles for the sake of fame, money and ego. We've like the world made untouchables or "gospel" music artists celebrities. A danger to not florick with.
Let me be vulnerable here a bit, I noticed that looking at my past and the things I accessed on the internet, it was easier to download x-rated videos that it is to even access or download gospel songs.
The culture of singing biblical strong messages has fizzled out. You could have someone today compose a song with just two lines and sing such song for eight minutes. It's crappy at best what we have in Church. Thank goodness we've not thrown away the Puritan hymns.
Thanks Sir, for the information.
Good video bro 🙌🏿
This was really good bro. So many great points. Keep going 💯
Thanks fam this help me to
Continue my mission on making the music the way I was called to
God told me, "Don't even sign the contract." Have faith that God will provide!
solid solid! God bless you for sharing this 👏🏾
Appreciate you for watching and your continued support. I notice! 👏🏾
Awesome 👊🏾 Brother Shopé
Where I come from I've had to watch so many gospel artists lose their faith and metamorphose into scandalous, outright godless "secular" artists because of the love of fame and money 🤑💸
Which informs me that when you start you better count the cost, know your priorities ( get ya mind right) as they say... Because even amongst the Preachers; some have commercialised the message and lost the way. Ya can't serve Ha'YAH and serve Mammon. Be encouraged Shopé you may not be famous yet, but at least you still got your soul intact: like King David, a Man after God's own heart; or else be like King Saul, a Man for the people: gain the world and lose the irreplaceable.
Brother, I've been wondering if anyone would ever say this. You perfectly captured what I've been been expressing to my colleagues about the industry for quite a while. Keep pushing Brother. I hope to meet you one day and have a long talk about this. Until then, keep "preaching" the message of who we are really as artists that God has put here for His purpose, not mans. Blessings to you!
Amen! Be blessed!
We were meant to Glorify God with our bodies and not to allow anyone break and control our frequency with Our Heavenly Father, his Son and the Holy Spirit
Agree with SO MUCH of this. I checked out of Christian music myself and feel like I have far more opportunities to be salt and light now with my music.
The Christian music genre is one of my least favorite genres. It just amazes me how someone can worship an all-powerful, limitless God, and yet they create something so bland and uninspired. Christian art should be the standard, not making cheap knock-offs of secular music.
That lost point was so good. I resonate with that. I remember when people kept suggesting to me that I could monetize a blog and write on topics from a Christian worldview. Immediately I felt that if I was to begin that, I'd start farming money. It wouldn't feel genuine... Even if I really want to spread the message and encourage people, I would feel obligated to post, I'd begin to obsess over numbers, I'd probably start modifying the content to optimize viewer engagement, consumption, growth, etc.
I just knew it would be unhealthy for me. All the while recognizing role models like Tim Challies who runs a sound Christian blog without expressively having the same conscience pick as I. More power to him, more strength to you as well. I really enjoyed the video.
Real talk bro... Amazing insights!
Appreciate you for watching!
So glad someone said it. I’ve been feeling this way for a while.
Glad you found this helpful. Please don’t forget to sub + hit the bell (if you haven’t) 🙏🏾
You said everything I believe in. Bless the Lord. Do you in a godly manner and the world will know you're God's.
🎯 appreciate you.
Heard the whole thing. Nicely done, thank you for sharing.
Thank you for watching. 🙏🏾
Man that crazy because when I do music I just talk about my life and how I'm feeling at the same time I bring God into my music .. the artist NF man I feel God when I hear that man ..
I understand this!
Thank you! This helped free me so much! I have gone back and forth for years with the idea of just being myself creatively.
Amen! I’m so glad to hear this. Thanks for watching and please sub (+ hit the bell if you haven’t).