Arguably unlike any year before it, 2014 ushered in a new era for what is considered “faith-based music”. Some well-known Christian artists creatively pushed boundaries within the sacred arenas that allow them to testify of their faith freely. Others willingly crossed those boundaries, thus bringing a message of good news to a secular audience that might have not received it otherwise. However, what is considerably even more remarkable is the amazing success that many of these artists achieved in their efforts to expand a message that is beyond themselves.
With 2014 at its close and in recognition of the 2015 Grammy season, let us give attention to the artists that challenged the status quo in their safe Christian circles and made a remarkable impact in the world of music. Kingdom Rising: Bridging the Sacred-Secular Divide is a four-part series that will shine light on figures who shook up the music industry as we know it in the recent year, including some who rightly earned notable Grammy nods. Even more, the series will take a look at emerging artists who not only got next in 2015 but are already achieving greatness. As we look at the musicians acknowledged in this series, we will consider the contributions that each of them offer to music as an art form, as well as the meaningful roles that they carry out in the expansion of the kingdom of God through their craft.
Kingdom Rising: Bridging the Sacred-Secular Divide
Check in on Turnt-Up Tuesdays every Tuesday from January 6 – February 3 for a new post in the series.
Part 1: Mali Music: Prophetic Voice of the Mainstream
Part 2: Kierra Sheard: Relevant Gospel Royalty
Part 3: Rising Representatives
Part 4: Lecrae: Uncommon Messenger