Doubting Thomas is Back!

I’m gearing up to restart my contributions to the illspot/Holyculture.net media outlet. Please remember I have a serious passion to see this art form thrive but between greedy businessman and pharasitical hypocrites lies a group of people who just love the art form because it glorifies Christ and it gives us something great to listen to and be inspired to do good. We spend our hard earned money to buy this music because we see value but if the value diminishes so does the art form. We can’t get lazy with our production and presentation. I’m no pragmatist but by the positive response of the support emails I’ve received, I confidently can say I speak for a large amount of people in this industry. I’ve work very closely with a lot of people in this industry across the country I’ve seen questionable business transactions first hand so I know nothing is off the table when it comes to the corruption in any man made industry, Christian or Non-Christian. I’ve also witness blackball attempts disguised as theological differences and jealous division. But I’ve also witness God use this to inspire a generation of his people to live holy for his glory. This music just serves as a great alternative to what the world wants to offer you. Christian Hip Hop is another American luxury like indoor heat, it’s not needed but it’s appreciated. I receive new music from the secular industry weekly so trust me when I tell you it’s refreshing to hear good quality Christian hip hop. Let’s just make more of it and cut down the lying to one another about how good something is when you know it’s not. A special thanks to Anonymous and Ben “Godside” Lippens for their hard work at illspot/holyculture.net and for giving me a bigger platform to speak.

- DT
For additional info visit: Doubting Thomas

Hate or Opinion?

If you have been a follower of hip hop for any length of time, you have no doubt at some point encountered the dreaded “H” word. Heresy? No. Hyphy? Nope. Try again. Hooligan? Sorry. Think more hip hop, less soccer. So what is the dreaded “H” word? Hate. Hater. Hating.

Read more

Taking Practical Steps With Your Prayer Life

²⁶Therefore I do not run uncertainly (without definite aim). I do not box like one beating the air and striking without an adversary. ²⁷But [like a boxer] I buffet my body [handle it roughly, discipline it by hardships] and subdue it, for fear that after proclaiming to others the Gospel and things pertaining to it, I myself should become unfit [not stand the test, be unapproved and rejected as a counterfeit].  1Cor. 9:26-27 (Amp)

How often do you read your word?  What’s your prayer life like?  Questions like these tend to bring a lot of conviction and guilt, regardless of who you’re asking.  Over the years, I’ve definitely had my ups and downs in this area.  There have been times where I felt like my time with God was exemplary and other times where I would be embarrassed if the subject even came up.  We all know that we should be consistent, but most struggle to accomplish this feat.

Over the years, I’ve learned to approach my prayer time with God like a fighter. You may wonder why or how I would relate prayer and study to fighting, but I don’t think I’ve fought harder and longer with anything else in my life!  We all fit into two styles of fighting.  Brawling and boxing.  Brawling is probably seen as a rougher style where anything goes.  Boxing is probably more reserved, if not downright boring in comparison to a big brawl.  The biggest thing that sets these two styles apart is planning.  In a brawl, you might grab the closest thing to you and throw it at your opponent, but in boxing you have a limited amount of time to overcome your opponent with nothing but two fists and quick reflexes.  If brawling were an art, boxing would be a science.  In boxing, opponents have already studied each others favorite moves and planned counter-attacks before they even step in the ring.  We have to treat our flesh the same way.

This scripture in 1 Corinthians encourages us to be precise and thoughtful when we fight. As Christians we know that we wrestle not against flesh and blood, because our fighting is done in prayer.  We are in a day and time where God is challenging us to go beyond the emotional style of a brawl, because emotions and adrenaline can only take you so far as you’ve probably seen in the ups and downs of your prayer life.  When I got tired of repenting for my pitiful prayer life, I sat down with God and began to plan.  I thought through the course of the day and looked for soft spots in my schedule that I could spend with God without interruptions.  When I couldn’t find anything, I looked realistically at what sacrifices I could make that I knew I could and would stick with.  In short, I started thinking like a boxer.  A boxer knows his/her limitations and studies his/her adversary and says “how will I beat you?”  In this case your adversary is your own flesh, mixed within your day-to-day schedule.

I don’t know about you, but I’ve fought enough to realize that the first or the hardest punches don’t always win the fight. I needed to put some practical combos together that would work for me against …me.  I had to plan specific times with God (aka put Him first regardless of whatever else is going on) that were realistic and pushed me in the right direction.  This can’t be accomplished without sacrifice, but it may not be as hard as you think, even if you’re super busy like me.  Of course, I still have times of impromptu prayer where I sneak away from the family and other things for some alone time with The Father, but that’s icing on the cake.  I can’t depend on impromptu to develop consistent and long term victories against the flesh.  It just won’t happen.

Successful boxers don’t just go for the knockout blow. They have a plan of attack and work the plan.  When something else opens up, they take it.  This means that you shouldn’t try to kill yourself with your first attempt.  If you only pray 15 minutes a day, don’t fool yourself into thinking you can jump to 2 hours.  That’s an emotional decision.  That is something a brawler would do.  It probably won’t work and will make you feel discouraged from the overall failure instead of encouraged by any progress.  I can’t knock out a heavy weight unless I train like a heavy weight.  Let’s be real.  Add practically to what you are doing so that you can be encouraged and know that it is possible.  Just realize when you make the plan, that you also are planning to add to it your time.  As the scripture says, do not fight like someone who is “beating the air.”  Beat/buffet your body and discipline yourself to accomplish what is needed in your relationship with God to be who He has called you to be.  This doesn’t mean you won’t take a hit here and there, but this does put you in a better position to consistently break new ground and win the fight.  Remember we are supposed to forcefully advance, not run in circles.  If we learn to work smarter instead of just harder, we can do it.

Be encouraged.

Written by: Edward Welch

EWelch@trustmark.com

KINGDOM CHOICE AWARDS 2009 RECAP

What’s really good y’all? I mean we all know God is GREAT, but I asked what’s really GOOD! No answer? No bueno! But hey, I’m about to give you MY answer. I have some breaking news for those who missed out on a major moment in KINGDOM HISTORY! That’s right! I’m talking about NYC’s very first annual KINGDOM CHOICE AWARDS! For those who were there, you already know how it went down! And for those who missed it, you missed out! But don’t worry, I’m about to give you some of the inside scoop. This is ya girl KLC comin’ atcha with a brand new spin on my writing. Those who know my work are accustomed to poetry and what I’d like to refer to as a modern version of “Daily Bread,” although it’s rarely on the daily. But thanks to a mighty man of God ,Marcus Hall,otherwise known as Minister Marcus, I’m bringing you something different. I’m bringing you a recap of a night that will never be forgotten.

On Saturday, October 24th 2009, brothers and sisters in Christ from all over gathered at Long Island University’s Kumble Theater to celebrate and honor some outstanding people in the urban gospel fraternity! It all started with a red carpet pre-show, where all who attended were able to socialize while having photographs taken courtesy of Arnold Soshkin Photography, who made the atmosphere feel very official. Once this portion of the evening was complete, the main event began with gospel rap emcee Richard Daughin holdin’ it down as our host. And with him on the mic keeping everyone laughing with his comedic personality and high octane energy, it was undeniable that we were in for an incredible night! The night was filled excitement and entertainment and most importantly, it was a night of fellowship as we acknowledged and celebrated the God-given talent of our urban gospel artists and officials!

Award categories and recipients at this extravagant event were as follows:

Outreach Ministry – Youth Explosion
Promoter – Mello (Salvation Cafe Records)
Producer – Jah Rockn Productions
DJ – DJ Tony Tone
Rap Single – Who You Represent by Richie Righteous
Rap Album- R.I.C.H. by Richie Righteous
Reggae Gospel – Yankee B
Spoken Word – Gods Child
Female Urban Worship Singer – Brooke Lugo
Male Urban Worship Singer – TJ Da Praying Man
Video Of The Year – Can’t Break Us – Frontlynaz ft DJ Morph
Rap Group – Peoplez Choice
Female Rap Minister – Mahogany Jones
Peoples Minister – Richie Righteous

Honoree Awards:

Longevity Award – Q The Prophet
Appreciation Award – Bert Bocachica (Rap Fest)
Achievement Award – Richie Righteous
Rap Pioneer Award – Corey Red

Along with awards being presented and honorees being honored, the night was made complete with jaw-dropping performances by ministers such as songstress Brooke Lugo, emcees Gauge, Slave, J Sky Walker, and the dynamic duo known as Mahogany Jones and Light Da Flow Minista to name a few. Now the last two mentioned RIPPED the stage as the crowd went wild witnessing their God-given gangsta! I mean these ladies truly embodied the definition of “Girls GoneWild” for God as they individually and collectively broke down the meaning of a lady who loves the Lord with their phenomenal lyrics and flow.

And how can we forget the one and only Richie Righteous, whose daughter stole the show as she put her daddy in check! I mean who else could get away with interrupting a man to say “blab bla bla” in front of an audience? You just had to be there! And his response was truly that of a loving father who is also a man of God. Humble from beginning to end, he and the other artists gave their all to God that night as we gave them only a fraction of what they deserve. And how did we end this monumental moment in KINGDOM HISTORY? That’s right, you guessed it! We concluded with a brief but convicting Word for the urban gospel movement and a departing prayer from Minister Marcus, followed by more fellowship and photography. The night was an absolute SMASH to say the least! So how could we end without giving the ultimate thanks to whom it is ultimately due? And on that note, I’d like to thank God for giving me the ability to recapture that great night for all of you readers, although this recap barely scratches the surface of this awesome event. So with that being said, may God bless y’all and I hope to see you all at next year’s Kingdom Choice Awards 2010! If you miss it, you’ll definitely be missing a blessing. This is your sis in Christ, KLC, signing off with a one word benediction. Peace!

Copyright ©2009 Keisha L. Clarke
Note: Other work/ independent writing by “KLC” can be found @ http://keishalclarke.wordpress.com

Holy Hip-Hop’ trying to break into Mainstream

November 18, 2009. Atlanta. By LUCAS L. JOHNSON II, Associated Press Writer Lucas L. Johnson II, Associated Press Writer – Wed Nov 18, 11:38 am ET

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Terverius Black believes in hip-hop gospel so much he sold his first home to get the money needed to start his Christian-themed entertainment company.

It was a risky move, but the 34-year-old entrepreneur believes the company’s diversity, which is producing music, a film, a reality television show and a gospel cruise, will help boost a struggling genre of Christian music. Secular hip-hop used radio as a launching pad, but holy hip-hop gets little play on regular hip-hop stations and nearly none on gospel or Christian radio.

“It’s tough, but we’ve got to get a little more creative,” said Black, who started Huntsville, Ala.-based Xist (pronounced “exist”) Worldwide Record Label three years ago with partner Sean Simmonds.

Both men point to hip-hop moguls like Sean “Diddy” Combs, Jay-Z and Russell Simmons, who succeeded branching outside the music industry. Even though their message is faith-based, Black and Simmonds believe they can find the same success.

“We’re trying to create our own blueprint for gospel, but at the same time, make it so that it’s respected across the board, and can be followed,” said Simmonds, 32.

Hip-hop gospel has been around nearly two decades, but many followers say it didn’t start getting recognized until a few years ago. So far this year, there have been more than 500,000 CD and digital sales of hip-hop gospel, according to the Christian Music Trade Association, which operates Christian SoundScan. Supporters also point to an increasing number of hip-hop gospel fan Web sites.

“I think holy hip-hop music is starting to make a move,” said Danny Wilson, a former road manager for rapper-actor LL Cool J and the main organizer of the Holy Hip Hop Awards in Atlanta. “Look how long it took regular hip hop to take. You’re talking about 25 to 30 years for it to really make an impact to the point that it’s a driving culture that’s known all over the world.” Wilson said better air play of hip-hop gospel would make it a more effective tool in reaching the unchurched. He cites a syndicated two-hour radio show sponsored by Holy Hip Hop Awards that airs once a week in about 100 cities.

“We get letters from prison all the time,” Wilson said. “One man wrote, ‘I wish I had this music when I was out on the street, it might have saved my life.’”

Joey Elwood, president of Gotee Records, a small independent label, agrees hip-hop gospel would benefit from more air play on both gospel and secular outlets, but he believes “a lot of the outlets are afraid of offending people.” “If there’s any genre where I think that would not be an issue, it would be in hip-hop,” Elwood said. “I think hip-hop listeners are less likely to complain about a gospel message in their song. The radio stations have got to get a little bit braver.” Xist could create more awareness and demand for its music with its other ventures, said Kymberlee Norsworthy, director of publicity for Verity Gospel Music Group, a subsidiary of Sony.

“I think only time will tell, but I have faith and confidence that it will be successful,” she said of the company. Xist’s film, “Stand,” and its reality TV show focus on three young hip-hop gospel artists struggling in the industry who refuse to trade their beliefs for fame.

Black said the gospel cruise, which allows fans to mingle with their favorite artists, is also an opportunity for people to enjoy themselves “and not … worry about compromising what they believe in.” “We Christians, but we party, too,” he said.

The key will be staying true to a Christian message, said Vassal Benford, a top California-based record and movie producer who is working on his first gospel album. Xist needs to clearly distinguish the music from secular hip hop, whose reputation and lyrics are often “centered around a lot of darkness,” such as robbing and killing.

“Gospel music has a certain wholesomeness to it,” he said. “And whether it’s a hip-hop beat or whatever it is under it, the underlying cause of it should always be about God and … creating a positive influence.” Trey Williams, also known as Andale, is a Nashville gospel rapper starring in Xist Worldwide’s film. He said his lyrics focus on humility and encouragement, rather than negativity.

On a track from his latest CD, “White Flag,” Williams says: “I’m surrendering … sick of lying, sick of stealing … I’m taking my life back the devil he don’t really like that but Christ glad I’m waving this here bright white flag.” Williams said he believes the movie will provide valuable exposure for hip-hop gospel.

“If people know we’re here and they know the level of quality we’re presenting then they’ll pay attention to it, but the trick is getting them to pay attention,” said the 27-year-old Williams. “We have to get in their face, and a lot of times they just don’t know we exist. I think this film will help with that.”

Hip-hop gospel pioneer Vicki Mack-Lataillade, whose discoveries include gospel star Kirk Franklin and a group called The Gospel Gangstaz, said she understands the challenges of “doing radical music” and applauds companies like Xist Worldwide for thinking outside the box.

“It’s healthy for the industry to have … new visions,” she said. “It’s the lifeblood.”

Article: INNOVATION by Urban D.

In-no-va-tion (in-uh-vey-shun) – The introduction of new things or methods. Those who are directly responsible of the innovation are often called pioneers in their field.

In many situations we see that innovation comes from facing impossible obstacles. In some cases it’s even watching something come from basically nothing. That’s the story of hip-hop’s humble beginnings. I recently was reading a book called “IT” by Craig Groeschel and I had one of those epiphany type moments. It talked about the old saying “Where God guides he provides”. He challenged that and reworked it and said, “Where God doesn’t provide, he guides.” You may have to read that a few times and let that soak in. I did. But, then it clicked and it made so much sense as that’s so much of my story and for some of you innovators reading this – I’d guess it’s part of your story too.

You still may not get it, so let me break it down some more. When it comes to doing music, or ministry, or business there are certain things that we think we need in place in order to be successful and really make the impact that we think we’re supposed to. God gives us a vision and then he gives us the provision, right? Well, yes he absolutely always provides, but many times not in the way that we think he would or he should. We get the vision and then we think – okay now God will send the investors or the record label or the right hook up and then it seems none of those things are happening the way we thought they were going to. This is actually a great place to be because then God can use us to begin to innovate and do some things we would have missed if everything had lined up in the first place. It’s funny because a lot of times the end result ends up being much greater than if we would have had all the resources from the jump.

In Acts chapter 3 there was an incredible miracle that took place. There was a crippled dude that was begging at the temple gate called Beautiful. He had dibbs on this prime spot. Everyday he went there and held down his spot to get some money just so he could eat. The day that Acts 3 describes was just another usual day where he got carried by some of his people to his same old spot and was anticipating getting some spare change so he could get some food like he always did. The truth is he was about to get something he only dreamed about. When he saw Peter and John about to enter he asked them for some money. We all know how it can feel awkward when someone we don’t know is asking us for money. Even if we have it, we don’t know what they’re going to do with it, but many people feel guilty and just give it to them anyways.

Here’s where we see a lack of resources bring something so much greater. If Peter and John would have had some change with them they may have just gave to the beggar and quickly moved on and entered the temple to pray. But, they didn’t have anything. Acts 3:4 says, “Peter looked straight at him, as did John. Then Peter said, “Look at us!” So the man gave them his attention, expecting to get something from them. Then Peter said, ‘Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.’ Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man’s feet and ankles became strong. He jumped to his feet and began to walk.” If they would have had some money, they might have missed that! If the beggar would have got what he was asking for he might have never been walking again. Sometimes our temporary lack of something might be the biggest blessing we could ever imagine!

When I started doing hip-hop music over a decade ago I had just moved to Florida and I didn’t know anyone that made beats. There wasn’t the network of beat makers that we have in the Christian hip-hop community today. God had given me this vision to do hip-hop for him and I initially thought some record label would have to come along and hook me up. I was so clueless about the music industry and the process of even making music. No label came along, but soon I met some brothers in Christ that had a similar mindset and they wanted to help me get my first project started. My man Johnny Jamz offered me his studio and his boy Marty (S.W.N.) offered to make some beats. The studio basically consisted of a Roland keyboard with a sampler, a four track, one turntable and a tape deck. It wasn’t much to work with, but that didn’t stop us. Innovation was born. We didn’t even have a drum machine (the one on the keyboard was cheese!), but we started sampling beats and chopping them up and adding baselines and other samples. I even broke out my trumpet and we sampled it for one of the choruses.

We didn’t let our lack of resources stop us. We were hungry. We learned, we got creative and we stretched ourselves. After 6 months of hitting it hard we had a final product and I scrapped up enough money to press up 300 cassette tapes (that was the lowest quantity they pressed up). In just a few months I sold all of them and took the money and jumped back in the studio to make 3 remixes and a new track. We added that to the project and pressed up 500 CD’s and 500 more cassettes. As things developed we watched God provide ministry opportunities left and right. Two years later I put out my 2nd independent release and continued to grow as an artist and minister. Eventually I got signed to a few different labels and I’ve been humbled to put out 4 nationally distributed projects and have been able to travel around the world and impact countless people with the gospel. The vision literally unfolded… but in natural eyes over 10 years ago I could have looked at that ill-equipped studio that I started in and thought… “This is never going anywhere”.

When we face those walls in front of us we have a choice to either quit or innovate. Church planting has had resurgence in the U.S. over the past few years. Lots of great resources, conferences and networks have been formed to help church planters be successful. These are great things that have helped change many lives and bring many new people to a relationship with Christ. But, sometimes we can rely too much on the stuff. Look at the first New Testament church in Jerusalem in the book of Acts. They didn’t have a building, a full time paid staff, multi-media, a great worship team or any of the things we think we need to have a successful church. But, yet that church grew thousands in just one day on several occasions. Scholars actually say that by the end of the book of acts (about 25 years later) the church in Jerusalem had close to 100,000 people that were a part of it. Historians estimate that Jerusalem’s population was around 200,000 people at that time. That means nearly half of the city was part of this church! They literally rocked their city! It was a true move of God! There had to be a lot of real innovation happening for that to take place.

We can argue some good points of how things are different today in our culture versus when the church in Jerusalem sparked off. But, we can still look at some real models of innovation in America and overseas where we see God showing up in a huge way and it doesn’t seem to make sense. There are many ministries I know across the country and around the world that don’t have all the stuff and they are doing it big for God’s kingdom! Then there are also some big ministries that have all the stuff and it seems over time they’ve become less and less innovative and less and less effective. Real innovators, real leaders and real Christ followers don’t let obstacles get in their way. They don’t always play it safe – they take risks.

I’m privileged to lead a group of innovators in Tampa, Florida that are part of Crossover Church. Several years ago God gave us this vision to focus on those influenced by urban/hip-hop culture. There were a lot of questions, a lot of doubts and a lot of obstacles. But, that didn’t stop us. We didn’t have much money, much experience or any model to follow. But God used those things to drive us harder to seek him, seek wisdom from others and to dig deep in ourselves and discover some new things. Let me warn you that when you innovate there will be critics, naysayers and doubters… aka haters. Over the years there were several people that said our ministry wouldn’t last and couldn’t ever grow and wasn’t a real church, etc, etc. You have to be careful to the voices that you listen to. The wrong voices have stopped many innovators in their tracks. You have to make sure you’re truly tuned into God’s spirit guiding and directing you. Innovation isn’t an easy road and it can be real easy to get discouraged. Not everyone is going to agree with your approach, but you have to learn that’s reality. A very funny guy named Bill Cosby once said, “I don’t know the key to success, but I know the key to failure is trying to please everyone.” People will hate on you no matter what your doing or how big or small it is. One of my mentors Rick Warren said, “When you’re small, they’ll dismiss you; when you’re growing, they’ll criticize you; and when you’re large, they’ll resent you. So ignore ‘them’ and get on with whatever God has told you to do!”

We’ve learned over the years to listen to His voice and get on with what He’s called us to do. One of our biggest assets at Crossover Church is freedom. Our church is full of creative people that are all for seeing people come to Christ and get discipled. That’s so important to us as we are constantly innovating and doing things out of the box to reach the culture. Our people love that. We are continually giving our people platforms to use their gifts and talents to further God’s kingdom. This also creates another huge asset – ownership. We have a great base of volunteers that donate countless hours to various things that take place at and from our faith community. Our unique approach of reaching the urban culture has lead us to be recognized by Outreach Magazine as one of America’s most innovative churches and even receive an award at the Innovate Conference as the Innovative Church of the year. It’s been humbling to be listed next to many incredible leaders and great churches that we look up to and learn from. Crossover was probably the smallest church on the Innovative list as most were mega-churches. But, that goes to show that you don’t have to be huge or have a lot of resources to be innovative and do things in excellence. Our team takes the Kingdom mindset, and being that it’s for God – they go all out! They make incredible sacrifices with their time, talent and finances to be part of things. The fruit keeps us going as we watch true transformation in people’s lives.

As you’re finishing up this article I pray that the light is turning on for you. Maybe you’re just like us in that you don’t have everything you think you need. But, now you’re being encouraged that you can push through and innovate and watch God provide and do miracles. Right now you have exactly what you need to do what God has called you to do right now – open your eyes and look for it and innovate!

This magazine you’re holding in your hands is yet another example of innovation. People would look at the quality and excellence and assume that we have lots of resources and a full time staff. Several companies and events have approached us to sponsor their events for large sums of money as they think we’re “rollin’ like that.” The truth is everyone that is a part of the S.O.U.LMAG team is a volunteer – from writers, to editors, to photographers, to designers… at this point, nobody gets paid a penny! The money that we generate from ad sales and sales of the magazine go for the printing as it’s quite expensive being that we don’t cut corners on quality. Reaching people is our motivation – not money. Sometimes there will be seasons of profit and other times the profit is just simply the fruit. When you have your priorities and motivation in the right place you can watch God show up and do some amazing things. I challenge you to step out of your comfort zone, take some risks and trust Him and watch Him make something out of nothing.

Written by:
Tommy Kyllonen aka Urban D.
(From S.O.U.LMAG issue #14)

Interview: Humble Tip is all About Business

What up world! We recently had the pleasure to interivew one of the hardest working dudes I know… There is a huge buzz going around about his summer hit, music videos and recent album release… he’s all “About Business.”

Anonymous: Humble, for peeps that do not know who you are, would you describe who Jason Lewis is? I don’t wanna hear about Humble Tip, but about who Jason Lewis is? Are you married? Kids? In school? Day job? …etc.

Humble Tip (HT):  Jason lewis is a college graduate who works full time and also is pursuing a Master in Health & Wellness. I do not have any kids and I am not married. I’m waiting on that man, that’s serious. I’m just the average dude, working in corporate America and trying to please God daily.

Anonymous: What’s the last book you read?
HT: Revisiting America: Readings in race, culture, and conflict

Anonymous: Favorite food?
HT: Pizza, hands down.

Anonymous: Favorite movie?
HT: Bad Boys 1 & 2 (sorry, but it’s the truth)

Anonymous: Favorite cartoon?
HT: X-Men

Anonymous: What’s the one thing that just erks you?
HT: Men who never take responsibility for their actions

Anonymous: Fam, really, What’s up with the GLOVES and SCARF all the time, we’ve seen you wearing them in pics, videos and in concert? Are you always cold?

HT: Haha, I started wearing the gloves because about a year or so ago, I had an outdoor concert, and it was so hot, that my hands were sweating very badly. In the middle of the concert I dropped the mic because it was slippery. Ever since then, I started wearing gloves and I haven’t dropped the mic since. Plus, it’s a branding technique, I never thought that many people would start noticing it, but it separates me from other artist, and artist distinction is key in this game.

Anonymous: I’ve seen your face plastered all over the net in what I think is a great attempt in marketing your new project “About Business.” I’ve spoken to a few people who swear you have a label underwriting your expenses. Do you have someone financially backing up your ministry or are you truly independent? If you are independent, how can you afford, recording and pressing the projects, the videos, the banners ads, etc?

HT: Man that’s a good question. Trust me; I am as independent as they come. I am a good money manager. When I get paid from iTunes, or from a concert or from hard copy CD sells I reinvest that money back into the ministry. I don’t eat off of that money. I have a full time job, that’s what I eat off of; enjoy entertainment and use for everyday living. So I guess the answer would be reinvestment. I work real hard fam, and I pray for wisdom on how to utilize the finances the Lord has blessed me with.

Anonymous: What advice would you give an indie artist that may be reading this interview hoping to break out as an artist and really market their music ministry?

HT: If you really feel God has called you to it, you have to be willing to sacrifice some things. Too many times I see artist who think they are entitled to something and they don’t want to work. They don’t want to work on the craft, on marketing, anything. Faith without works is dead fam. If God called you to it, stay diligent, persistent, and keep putting out quality music that is unique and innovative. And never forget that all of those things come AFTER your personal relationship with Him.

Anonymous: Political question: Health Care has been on the minds of the American People for most of the summer. Some argue that reinventing the heath care wheel is an expensive and strategic move for Government take over. Others argue that we only want the rich to have health insurance. Yet others argue that we can agree that Heath Care needs reform, but is a reinvention needed? What is your take on Heath Care?

HT: I don’t believe in this “everybody should be equal stuff”. If I’m grinding harder than somebody else, than I am entitled to more than they are, point blank. So, I’m not really feeling this whole universal health care thing. No one needs to be in charge of my insurance accept me. Period. But I do think it’s a strategic move by the government, they’re up to something man foreal. It’s entirely too much activity taking place in the government with the forcing of digital cable, and the forcing of H1N1 vaccines, and every car having to have gps systems in the near future, man it’s all leading up to what we all know is coming.

Anonymous: For the Geeks: PC or Mac?
HT: PC. I’m a regular guy and not complicated at all.

Anonymous: Internet Explorer or Firefox?
HT: Firefox seems more reliable to me.

Anonymous: For the Gamers: XBox or PS3?
HT: PS3 to the death. I love the controls and the gameplay always is easier to adapt to.

Anonymous: Favorite Game?
HT: Tekken 3. CLASSIC

Anonymous: Bro, tell us about your new project “About Business.” Who are some of your guest appearances? Who produced ya tracks? Who did ya graphics?

HT: The most noticeable guest appearances are Drama and Maub. But I usually like to put my younginz on, so I have other guest on the project that many people don’t really know about, but they are nice none the less. Man I go coast to coast for production but I didn’t work with any Christian producers on this project. For the graphics I stayed in house with Technique Design Labs. They keep giving me heat to work with.

Anonymous: My personal favorite track is probably the beat box joint… you straight killed it! What’s your favorite track on the album? Why?

HT: I think my two favorite tracks were “We Aint Going Nowhere” and “Burn, Burn” just because I really felt like I went in on those tracks.

Like on “We Aint Going Nowhere” I say, “Relax and take notes, Christ gave me His words and said these words you may quote/ so I parade the Gospel around like a float/ We aint going nowhere is what I scream, like a float/ I should have drowned in sin, but His love kept me a float.”

And on Burn, Burn the topic is just so serious and the piano line is so alluring it really captures you.

Anonymous: What track has gotten the biggest buzz?

HT: ”S.P.F” and “The Good Life” hands down. S.P.F because the dance is a little revolutionary in the Christian game and the “The Good Life” because it has such a pop feel, but the message is still clear so it hits two very different markets.

Anonymous: ”My Pride” is a pretty sincere joint. Over the last few years, there have been several artists dropping joints describing their challenges with pride, but that seems like the only struggle discussed within CHH. And quite frankly almost always comes across self-righteous. Why don’t we hear artists talk about struggles like pornography and sexual immorality, these seem to be most prominent in CHH. Do you think CHH needs more transparency? Do you think the artists would feel judged by our community if they talk about such topics?

HT: Uh Duh, cuz its embarrassing, you already knew that. What artist want’s to say, “uh hey, 2 weeks ago I had sex with someone”. I mean that’s just the reality of the situation. That’s why I respect Flame from CM so much because on his second project he went in and told about how he “ventured into porn” and “told Tonic that he was going to have to chill” as far as putting the mic down. In the public eyes porn is like that unforgiveable sin. But I do think it needs to be discussed in further detail. I know I have had my bouts with it. I never really struggled with it like that, but there were those times on the CPU when I knew that Christ wasn’t pleased. I never spit about it though because it was never a major struggle of mine and pride was.

Anonymous: I gotta be honest, I’m an east coast, back packing, classic hip hop fan. So I tend to favor the hard hitting boom bap beats and the straight in your face, raw, lyrical joints and love that word play. Again, I gotta be honest, that SPF joint comes across trendy almost cheesy to cats like me… but it was a HUGE summer hit. I’ve seen footage of cats repeating the lyrics with you on stage and doing a dance to it… so, to get to the question, how would respond to cats who question your artistry as an emcee because it’s not their flavor of hip hop?

HT: At the end of the day the only thing that matters is lyrics. Point blank. In my opinion, you can’t deny the lyricism of that track. K-Drama delivers extremely tough truth, D-Maub kills it with his flow, and I come through delivering my usual comedic, clever and witty punchlines. Some people think it’s corny and that’s cool. But, when I do a show, and 300 people are all smiling, doing the dance and having a good time, I’m happy. I get to the end of sets and people are chanting S.P.F, S.P.F, its fun man. Plus, as an artist you want to be diverse. I feel like a lot of Christian emcees never want to think out of the box, if they’re east coast they only want to do east coast type tracks, they never smile, never want to do fun tracks and really move the crowd past a simple lil head bob and hand wave. And then on the other end, I think some artist only want to jump up and down and get krunk but they never want to give true lyricism. I’m trying to do both, and you’re bound to get people who aint feeling it, but a lot of my fans are, and I’m cool with that.

Anonymous: What do you want to accomplish as an Christian Hip-Hop Artist? What do you want to accomplish as a Minister of God’s everlasting, redemptive and life changing Gospel?

HT: For me as a person I just want to be used in whatever capacity the Lord sees fit, be it as a musician or as a Sunday school teacher. I want to serve the Lord. For me as an artist I want to constantly work on the art of rhyming and writing good music, not just good hip-hop, but good music. As far as the ministry, I want to reach as many people as I can with the message of the Gospel. And as far as my impact on the industry, I want to do the impossible. I want to take this genre to heights we thought were ridiculous to even dream about. Rev. Jerry Falwell said, “have a vision so big, that unless God intervenes it will fail”, I have adopted that mentality.

Anonymous: Bro, thanks for kicking it with us… the platform is yours, tell cats whatever is on your heart!

HT: Love Christ first and show His love to your brothers. Hate sin so much that you don’t want to be close to it. And do you, regardless of what the rules of this music game are, if you feel it’s hot, in your heart, DO IT, as long as it doesn’t contradict scripture.

Ministry over industry and favor over finance.

Victory in Tragedy – A Personal Story by Rawsrvnt

Ever had one of those days where everything’s going your way? Then outta no where it’s like everything gets rearranged. It’s kinda like that feeling you get when you bite into a piece of pineapple expecting it to be sweet and then it’s bitter. I mean…yuck! The feelings horrible. You feel disappointed, robbed, violated. It’s just not cool. The pineapple was supposed to be sweat man. What’s up with that? What happened? Circumstances happened. That’s what happened.

In life things happen to us and we often wonder why. A lot of things in life we bring upon ourselves because of choices we make. What’s so cool about God is, He has a great way of using those choices to teach us lessons to help us to improve our character, our relationships, our wisdom, our decision making, etc. But some thing’s are just a total plot from the enemy to get us off track from what were supposed to be doing and where were supposed to be going.

Enter one of those days with me. August 25, 2009 was such an exciting day for not only myself, but my entire ministry and so many folks worldwide. We at Soul Deep Ministries officially released the “Ring That Campaign” that featured the “Ring That” video along with the ringtone and a killer T-Shirt (pre-orders available Tuesday 9/22 on the release date for the “Tears 4 Peers video). I think the “Ring That Campaign” is so cool because it’s a campaign geared to help people share their faith with others by simply letting their phone ring. Since just about everyone now a days has a cellphone and a ringtone that goes with it, we thought it would be cool if every time your phone rang your faith was shared with others. Of course we all know that when a phone rings it usually stops conversations dead in their tracks so this ringtone would definitely give you opportunities to share your faith with others and spark up talk about your Savior. Anyways, to join and learn more about the “Ring That Campaign” visit Rawsrvnt.com today!

So back to my day filled with rejoicing… The video premiered on Rapzilla.com (an online Christian Hip-Hop Magazine) where thousands of people were able to be impacted and interrupted by this statement “Jesus is my Savior ring that on your cellphone!” It was great. The album was also carried exclusively on HolyCultureDownload.com (a digital download store specializing in Christian Hip-Hop, Christian Rap, and R&P music) where a community of believers were instantly exposed to this creative way of evangelism. We were getting great responses throughout the day. It was so exciting!!

Then as I headed home to change clothes so I could hit the gym, I continued in my state of worship thanking God for such a great idea and opportunity to share Him with people. I parked at my Condo and started heading up the stairs. Before I made it up there I noticed some water that looked like it was spilling underneath the garages below me. I thought nothing of it and just kept walking. I did think it a little odd but paid it no mind ’cause I was focused on rejoicing.

Anyways…I walked upstairs and saw some water that looked like it came outta my house. Of course I thought that couldn’t be from my place because I didn’t leave any water running. So I thought maybe my neighbors cats brought her a present and left it on my door mat and my neighbor washed it off with a hose or something. (It’s happened plenty before…she has cats and for some reason they bring their kill to her as presents. i.e. lizards, rats, birds…you get the point.) Anyways, I opened my front door and what did I see? The sink was on full blast and water was running over all over the floor. I took like 5 steps and I was in a half an inch of water. I had one of those “pinch me I must be dreaming moments” because I couldn’t believe it.

Come to find out, my cleaning lady left the sink stopper in the sink and the water running for well over 3 hours. I couldn’t believe it. I mean how could she be so foolish? Why couldn’t she hear the water running when she locked up? And what the heck am I gonna do with all this water in my house? It was a horrible feeling. At this point I rather bite into a sour pineapple. At least I could spit it out and get a new one. LOL!!

What I had to do next was painful. For those of you who know me personally, you remember what kinda battle I had getting into that place, the time I spent revamping the whole pad, and then the more time I wasted revamping the pad because the folks that were doing the work on it messed up, etc., etc., etc. Anyways, man…oh how this sucks!!! I immediately called my Spiritual Pops’ wife and she referred me to a company who specializes in taking care of flooded houses. I called my family, my friends, the cleaning lady, etc. to help me out too. I was totally frustrated and totally didn’t want to have to deal with that right then. I mean…I wanted to hit the gym man!! LOL!!

So the repair crew got there and saw the flood and immediately started sucking up the water. Then they ripped out all the baseboards and punched holes in all the walls, etc. to make sure no mildew or mold grew on the inside of the walls because then my problem would be even worse. I was livid to say the least.

After the crew finished demolishing my pad, they left over a half dozen fans, a dehumidifier so my place would dry properly, and a bill for over $3,000.00 (Three Thousand Dollars USD). WOW!!!!!!!!!! That hurt man!!

I know y’all asking why would she do that? Well…let’s just call it ignorance, carelessness, being distracted…y’all get the point. Come to find out, she was actually on her phone and forgot she left the water running and left my crib. Her phone needs to be ringing Jesus right about now man!! LOL!! The tough part about all this (a part from getting evicted while paying my mortgage…LOL!!) she had no insurance and neither did I. So…your boy had to fork out some major cheese (money) that I did not plan to spend. Especially on something like this. Dang…after replacing the baseboards, repainting, rebuying a door, replacing my dressers, and replacing the foot plates for my kitchen cabinets, the expense soared to $5,000.00 (Five Thousand Dollars USD).

Thank God for peace, His provision, my family and friends that we’re willing to help out and the good ol’ Visa card that I’ll have to pay off, I’m back in my place today (Tuesday September 15, 2009) and where I planned to be after I hit the gym the day all this happened…in God’s presence.

I’ma wrap this personal blog up by saying…the only thing that really helped me not fall into a deep depression was knowing God’s love. He would never wish anything like this on me. So since I know His heartbeat I ran to Him for comfort, clarity, wisdom, peace, mercy, etc. and received more than I asked for. He’s the bomb fam!! If the storms of life come your way, or the enemy throws something at you to distract you, keep your focus on the one who loves You perfectly. He always wants the best for you and has given you the victory to rise up and enjoy the life He’s given you. Don’t let some unexpected drama rob you of what’s rightfully yours…God’s peace!!

Above the water and in His amazing love and peace…God bless you!!

Written by: Rawsrvnt

Article: Hip-Hop Cop

Recently, I had a phone conversation with a cat who I would consider quite thorough in Christian hip hop. Even though we had just met, I could tell there weren’t too many C.H.H. artists that he wasn’t familiar with. He knew most of the sites/the lingo Read more

Better off Dead

I got saved as a teenager and had great difficulty with my flesh.   I struggled to keep my anger and sexual desires under control and to submit to God’s authority in my thought life.  I found myself constantly falling into sin and repenting but going back and doing the same thing.  O wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death? (Romans 7:24).  It took quite some time for me to understand that I was better off dead. Read more

Next Page »