When most people think of gospel music, it brings to mind a choir, maybe an organ, and that explosive churchy singer that knows how to belt out a note just right to put any saint at attention. The average person would rarely, if at all, picture rhythmic head bobbing, rapid lyricism, and "krunk"... MORE

When most people think of gospel music, it brings to mind a choir, maybe an organ, and that explosive churchy singer that knows how to belt out a note just right to put any saint at attention. The average person would rarely, if at all, picture rhythmic head bobbing, rapid lyricism, and "krunk" beats, characteristics of the ever-growing genre of spiritual expression, hip-hop gospel. But as societies and generations evolve, so must our methods of ministry, including gospel music. Hip-hop gospel is a method that brings a message that secular hip-hop cannot even begin to comprehend.

The fact is that the young people of this age are a hip-hop driven generation, and if we're going to reach them, we've got to draw their interest and reach them where they are. Hip-hop’s fusion with gospel offers the attitude, energy, creativity, and innovation that define what it is to be young. It all has to do with what the Lord was talking about when He said that He would make his disciples "fishers of men." You cannot draw fish with bait that is of no value or interest to them. You draw them with what they like. Gospel music has to enforce that principle if it is to be effective. Traditional gospel music serves its purpose as it attracts a generation of more mature believers; it works in its own time and space. There should be no doubt that hip-hop gospel is a medium through which God will establish a young church. Therefore, to paraphrase Balaam the prophet and countless other preachers, you can’t curse what God has blessed.

Kirk Franklin said it best: "For those of you that think that gospel music has gone too far...you ain't heard nothin' yet!"