Description
Book SynopsisIn this fascinating study of contemporary Christian worshippers, David L. Moody analyzes Christian rap music against traditional Christian theology. For many, mixing the sanctified worship of God with music originating from unconsecrated avenues has become difficult to accept. From the back alleys and streets of the hood to the club scene of urban America, Christian rappers walk to a different beat than the preacher at the pulpit. However, similar to a street evangelist, the Black Christian rapper is about singing praise to God and delivering the gospel message to his lost homies on the streets. Moody examines the emergence of hip hop based ministries and their place among youth with the Black community.
Trade ReviewIn Political Melodies in the Pews?, Moody opens the door for us to examine an understudied subject, and he has raised poignant questions to consider. As Christian music continues to play an important role as part of the worship service in Black churches across the United States, studies such as these are important contributions to better understanding cultural practices within these and similar communities. * Journal of American Culture *
This is a wonderful reference for readers who seek clarity on the purpose of Christian hip-hop. Moody’s own belief is made evident in the first pages and . . . is the book’s driving force. * The Journal Of Religion *
David Moody examines the relationship between contemporary black Christian rap/hip hop and black liberation theology. This topic is fascinating to me and caused me to think “why didn’t I think of that?!” It is interesting how he draws parallels between the themes in the lyrics of antebellum and postbellum black spirituals with the themes in contemporary black Christian hip hop rap songs. I believe Political Melodies in the Pews? is just the kind of scholarship to extend the current analyses regarding theology, popular culture, African American studies, and hip hop culture. -- Angela Nelson, Bowling Green State University
From the street demonstrations of the Civil Rights Movement, to the ideological struggles of black theology and black power, the black church has always sought a contemporary way in which to give voice to the meaning of the faith. With the rise of hip-hop as both a musical and cultural phenomenon the same issues arise; how do you present a changeless gospel to a fast- changing world. This book takes us into the world and work of black Christian rappers. Their melodies and methods may be different, but the intention is still focused on how to reach the masses. -- Marvin A. McMickle, Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School
Table of ContentsIntroduction: Sing my Brother, Sing! Say what’s on your mind; Do it with a rhyme! Chapter 1: The “Liberating Dream” through Black Christian Rap Music Chapter 2: Performing Hip Hop in the Black Church: Political, Spiritual, or just plain Entertaining? Hip Hop as a Culture: Rap as an Art Form Chapter 3: Black Liberation Theology: Political, Spiritual, or just a plain old voice from the Past? Chapter 4: Jesus “The Brown Skin-Revolutionary”: Was Jesus a Marxist Rapper? Chapter 5: What Would Jesus Rap About? Conclusion: The Role of the Church Today Appendix A. ABC Transcript/Jeremiah Wright Appendix B. RIAA 2008 Consumer Profile Appendix C. Slave Population of the U.S.
