Our Time

I had never been much into Hip Hop. I used to listen to it more in the 90s, but, as I’ve said before, I’d always been much more of a pop-r&b-soft rock person. Then in the last few years I got more into many different types of Christian music. My most recent discovery? A growing love for Holy Hip Hop.

Christian Rap, I mean (I know rap and hip hop are sometimes distinguished, but I am no expert and choose to use them interchangeably here). There are some deep, purposeful artists in mainstream hip hop, but we all know misogyny, debauchery, etc., are staples of the genre, too. I easily got tired of artists objectifying women in one song and being “spiritual” in the next. But because the main purpose of Christian Rap is to glorify God, there are no real lyrical inconsistencies to reconcile. Instead, I’m free to appreciate completely the rhymes the artists create. They are powerful—and hot.

I haven’t been listening long enough to declare a favorite artist, but the trio Group 1 Crew comes closest to this distinction. They have a lead vocalist, Blanca; the other two members, Manuel and Pablo, mostly rap. I love their beats; vocals; and very personal lyrics about dreams, hope and true fellowship with God. On their latest album, Ordinary Dreamers, there’s a song about the importance of daily spending time with God, aptly titled “Our Time.” It makes me reflect on how God uses personal time to make radical changes in character that only He can. An artist that can turn thoughts about quiet time (with God) into a catchy tune—and present a consistent message in other songs—has my vote.

If you haven’t, give Holy Hip Hop a chance. To start, here’s Our Time.