Religion in Popular Music and Music's Popularity
by Chloe Y
For many people, music plays a crucial role in religious
practice and worship. Traditionally, music’s role in religion is that of hymns,
meditations, chanting praise and expressions of exaltation. In the 21st
century, however, the lines between secular popular music and religion have
been blurred. This is particularly relevant in modern America’s Christian
mainstream. Many popular artists are known and revered for their association
with Christian belief, and, apply their faith not only to their music through
lyrics about social and community issues but in acts of charity as well. However,
the question I seek to answer is if any artist that promotes social justice,
regardless of religious association should be revered in the same way?
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| Anberlin Album Cover |
First, to look at Christian associated artists that make
music about social justice issues, and encourage their fan base to serve these
issues. Take for example American rock group Anberlin. The members of Anberlin
are all proudly and openly Christian, and while they do not characterise their
music as exclusively Christian, there are many Christian references in their
lyrics and they participate in many Christian music festivals. They are also
avid supporters of ‘To Write Love on Her Arms’ (TWLOHA), a not for profit
organisation that raises funds and awareness for individuals dealing with
addiction, depression, eating disorders and other difficulties. TWLOHA operates
as part of Fireproof Ministries, a liberal Christian ministry that backs many
charitable efforts under its broader belief in Christian living and sharing the
word of their God. By way of Anberlin’s publicity, TWLOHA have successfully
raised awareness of many of the social issues they aim to assist and reduce
among young people. Through the public awareness of Anberlin’s members as
openly Christian, a connection has been made between Christianity in music and
a social justice conscience. By addressing social issues under the auspices of
the Christian message and Christian living, TWLOHA has helped thousands of
people overcome pain and difficulty in their lives.
There are other American Artists, however, that present
their music and act with a social justice conscience without a direct religious
connotation. Take for example the rapper, Lupe Fiasco. Fiasco’s well thought
and cleverly constructed lyrics point to key social issues in American society
today. From the treatment of minorities historically and in the present, the objectification
of women
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| Rapper Lupe Fiasco |
The commitment to social issues and a social justice
conscience is clear when looking at the music and charitable acts of both
artists. Why then, in terms of record sales, attendance and public support, are
Anberlin far more present in the American picture? This is perhaps more of a
cultural issue than a religious one. Both artists successfully draw awareness
to relevant social issues, and share a social justice conscience, but their
religious associations seem to make the difference.
Sources:
http://audioinkradio.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Anberlin-Album-Cover-300x300.jpg
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs2UGm4N_B5cam5idIngOvjuDOL3ukYyeEVpiUDJFp7iW886W9SKQhN7RvhThQF3i1JqCdytSh8C4xa1sSr9Y-vdDQFLikQKCruXT0gdMeiUokEn2eu3cQAtRvbHail4lwCuFhbEBmQ4CX/s1600/Lupe+Fiasco+3.jpg
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