Last week, I had the opportunity to check out some of Christian hip-hop’s best performers as Reach Records’ Higher Learning Tour made its stop in Washington, DC. The headliner of the concert was LeCrae, with opening acts Propaganda, Dee-1, and comedian Bone Hampton. Not surprisingly, this concert exceeded my expectations. For me, it was a great mixture of old and new favorites.

Okay, full disclosure: I’m not the biggest hip-hop fan out there. In fact, I barely listen to it, even the Christian stuff. Yet even though I reside firmly behind the 8-ball when it comes to the Christian rap scene, I’m always encouraged to encounter faithful Christians who are using their talents to produce music that is actually very good. For too long, Christian music in America has just been downright bad. Hip-hop, has been no exception. Anyone who has lived through–nay, suffered through–the the 80’s and 90’s knows exactly what ‘m talking about.  I won’t even name any of the worst offenders, because I’m sure you already know who they are. And if you don’t, it’s probably best to spare you.

Thankfully, the past decade has seen the emergence of several Christian hip-hop artist who can go toe-to-toe with any mainstream, secular rapper out there. Not only have these artists become an acceptable alternative for Christians, but many of them have become the new standard for Christian music. The value of producing high quality Christian art is tremendous. On the one hand, Christians are being challenged to strive for excellence in their field and to understand the God-glorifying effect of a high work ethic in stewarding our gifts. On the other hand, non-Christians who would otherwise avoid gospel-centered art are encountering Christian art forms they actually enjoy, and as a result, man are wrestling with the truths of the gospel as never before.

So, who are some of these game-changing artists in Christian hip-hop? Well, if you are relatively new to gospel-centered hip-hop, perhaps it would be helpful for me to introduce you to the artists I saw the other recently at the Higher Learning concert.  Though this list represents only a tiny sample size of what’s out there, I think it provides a goo “starter kit” for you iPod.

 

LECRAE

Hailing from from Houston, Texas, LeCrae has changed the game for Christian rap. Having spent much of his teenage years as a drug dealer and gang-banger, LeCrae brings a raw grit to his music in which he honestly recounts his past while celebrating the powerful, life-giving grace of God to save even the worst of sinners. LeCrae is credited as being one of the forerunners of the emerging Reformed Hip-hop movement. LaCrae has released six studio albums, including his 2012 release Gravity, which earned him a 2013 Grammy Award for Best Gospel Album.

MG’s pick: Falling Down (featuring Swoope & Trip Lee)

 

PROPAGANDA

Propaganda is a Los Angeles based blend of spoken word, neo-soul, and old-school hip-hop. It makes sense, therefore, to know that he has shared the stages with the likes of KRS ONE and De La Soul. If one thing could be said about Propaganda, it is that he is authentic in every way. His music is a gripping exposition of the gospel and the vanity of life apart from Christ. Strap your helmet on tight. Propaganda doesn’t pull any punches.

MG’s pick: Lean

 

DEE-1

Born and raised in New Orleans, Dee-1 brings with him a transparency that is compelling from the start. Musically, Dee-1 offers a classic New Orleans rap flavor. But he packs a gospel-centered punch that leaves audiences with no doubt about where his hope lies. Dee-1 is already doing a lot through his music to proclaim Christ in some dark areas. If this guy keeps doing what he’s doing, I wouldn’t be surprised if he ends up joining LeCrae someday in the Grammy club.

MG’s pick: One Man Army