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  Hip hop artist Sean Slaughter writes regularly-appearing column for GOSPELflava.com on the wide-ranging topic of Gospel hip hop. July 15, 2008 I just finished reading a great article on the 5 Percent Nation of Islam's influence in hip hop. 5 Percenter's, as they are known, believe that 85% of the world is in bondage to the other 15%, and only 5% of the population (the 5 Percent Nation of Islam) has the answers to true knowledge, wisdom, and understanding. Some of the great artists of the past have had some connection or affiliation with the 5 percent nation. Rakim, Big Daddy Kane, Brand Nubian, Poor Righteous Teachers, and so on. Even today, artists such as Erika Badu and Lupe fiasco have waved the 5 percent flag, praying to Allah at the beginning of their CDs. Now if we take a look at these artists, they're agenda has not only been record sales, but promoting their God (Allah) in their music and responsibility in their communities. Now I am not trying to convert you or make change your name to Rufus X, but as Christian rap music gains ground (you need to read this article http://allhiphop.com/stories/features/archive/2008/04/29/19752948.aspx), what are we doing with our music? The thug, gangster, pimp image has now become part of the foundation of hip hop, even in the Christian arena. Being locked up, shot, thugged out and education deficient have been ingrained in the definition of hip hop, even though these things were never major in hip hop's early beginnings. Looking rich and big ballin' have all but chocked out the voice of reason, positivity and spirituality. And some of our music and our attitudes (Christian rappers) have been caught in this trap. How do I know? I've heard more Christian rappers talk more about their 'hoodliness' than Godliness. I've been to shows where artists' swagger has repelled more people than attracted them. I have even had artists talk about beefing with other artists (I am dead serious), going as far as putting the beef on a record (now I am laughing)! Are we stupid? Fire, aggression, and passion for God should not be confused with ego, pride, and arrogance. The 5 Percent Nation in hip hop was promoting self responsibility, self awareness, and God consciousness, causing hip hop fans to examine themselves. What are we doing? Acting like fake Young Jeezys, bootleg Soldier Boyz, and corny DJ Khaleds? Is not Jesus Christ the One and true God? We have been called to make great music and bring great ministry to the mass of hip hop fans. We are a different breed of artist; using the popularity we gain to point people in God's (Jesus, baby!) direction. If we lower ourselves and corrupt our music with an attitude that does not reflect Christ, and continue to act like fake Christian studio thugs and pimps, then we might as well put a gun to our head: cuz we're killing ourselves.
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July 15, 2008 Column Archives 
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