I know for many... going outside the world of Christian music and taking a peek at what lies beyond the horizon is heresy and considered betrayal but I want to let you know that it's ok. As a matter of fact if you want to grow as a songwriter you need to understand that, although our world is blessed immenseley with wonderful writers, sadly most of the greats have concentrated their efforts in the secular market.
Now I am of the opinion that not all music considered of the world is sinful. To be rather honest with you I listen to quite a bit of it. Sting happens to be my very favorite writer / artist and listening to him has helped me mature as a composer of songs. Hey, it's God who gave him his ability so why not learn from what he has to offer.
Other gifted artist / writers would included... Brad Paisley, John Mayer, Sheryl Crow, Taylor Swift, Phil Vasser, and many more.
Just go ahead and explore outside the gospel box; collect some artillery for your arsenal and expand your style. Trust me... you won't go to Hell for it; instead the Kingdom will benefit from your espionage!
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Some of my favorite artists and songwriters are from the secular field, and many have influenced my own gospel music writing and recording.
ReplyDeleteThere are some people who flat out refuse to listen to anything "secular," even if it's someone with an established Christian faith, on the grounds that anything that is not Gospel in nature can pollute the soul. My response to that is, people also experience LIFE. There are songs that don't necessarily say "Praise Jesus," but still deal with common issues that people deal with every day (love, family, grief, struggles, temptation). If they are a part of life, why not write about it?
Wonderful point. Heaven will be wonderful indeed but there's a whole lot of living to do between now and then. It should be our mission to help folks on their journey instead of only highlighting the destination.
ReplyDelete-It should be our mission to help folks on their journey instead of only highlighting the destination.
ReplyDeleteEXCELLENT!!