Music - Christian/Secular

[R. Smith]

OK, I think this will be a real hot topic. Some Christians listen to only Christian music, and some listen to both Christian and secular. I know Christian artists who listen to and see secular bands live.

If I have 1 weakness for a secular band, its Oasis. And U2...

What's yout take on this???

-Rog

[Jake]

My take is that your 1weakness for a secular band...is actually 2! lol

Having said that, I listen to more "secular" than I do "Christian" music.

[Tracey]

OK, I think this will be a real hot topic. Some Christians listen to only Christian music, and some listen to both Christian and secular. I know Christian artists who listen to and see secular bands live.

If I have 1 weakness for a secular band, its Oasis. And U2...

What's yout take on this???

-Rog

Same as what seems to be my motto of the month...It is what you make it. There's a lot of good music out there that is not classified as christian music but yet is still 'good music'. As in there's nothing wrong with their lyrics...not vulgar and violent...if you get my point.

Music is great in relating to our emotions. I think we should choose wisely what we listen to of course. I am not saying I agree with going out and listening to music that promotes sleeping around, drug use and such things...but I don't think all 'secular' music is bad.

12 stones for example is classified as a rock band...but they are well known in the chirstian community. I recently heard that they choose to remain 'secular' so that it'll attract more people to listen to their songs and be able to witness to more...I am not sure the accuracy on that though. Either way they are a good band and my old youth groups have played their music. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/12_Stones

This was a lot of rambling...sorry...I hope something makes sense.

[mindyhere]

I listen to both. I guess anymore, more Christian than anything, but I like to mix it up.

Good music is good music!

[R. Smith]

not all secular music is bad, and not all Christian music is good.

[AtlBraves]

I listen to a mix of both Christian and Secular. I have to say I am careful about what I listen to in Secular music. Because I don't want to listen to music with a bunch of junk in it. But I do like to mix it up.

[Sharon]

Why are we so adamant on labeling music? What makes a song Christian? There's lots of "secular" songs that mention Jesus and lots of "Christian" songs that never directly mention Jesus' name.

I know I'm asking a lot of questions and please don't think that I'm trying to be nasty. I'm just throwing things out to try to make people think.

........... and Rog ..... why do you consider it a "weakness"?? Yes we have to be careful as far as what we allow to come into our bodies (mind included here) but listening to a great Van Halen jam doesn't make you any less a Christian. (IMHO)

Side note: Did you know that Wagner (Ride of the Valkyries), one of the great composers, was a practicing Satanist?? True. Check it out. And Grieg (think Morning Suite) was a die hard existentialist? And yet the music they made is still listened to today.

[middletree]

Sharon is correct.

There is no such thing as secular music. Some music glorifies darkness, and a lot more glorifies God than people realize. It amazes me how people will classify music into secular vs. religious, but won't do the same for movies. They're essentially the same thing: a way of storytelling.

If a country song tells the story of the pain of a breakup which resulted from adultery, they are glorifying God, because they are explaining how sin has affected their lives. This is no different from, say, the bible telling us how David suffered because of adultery.

If a rap song is telling about life on the streets and is not specifically glorifying evil, then it is just telling a story, which glorifies God. If a pop song talks about a man being in love with a girl, then God is glorified.

Besides the individual stories being told, God is being glorified because people, made in His image, are using God-given talents to do their storytelling.

[Pouye]

Sharon is correct.

There is no such thing as secular music. Some music glorifies darkness, and a lot more glorifies God than people realize. It amazes me how people will classify music into secular vs. religious, but won't do the same for movies. They're essentially the same thing: a way of storytelling.

If a country song tells the story of the pain of a breakup which resulted from adultery, they are glorifying God, because they are explaining how sin has affected their lives. This is no different from, say, the bible telling us how David suffered because of adultery.

If a rap song is telling about life on the streets and is not specifically glorifying evil, then it is just telling a story, which glorifies God. If a pop song talks about a man being in love with a girl, then God is glorified.

Besides the individual stories being told, God is being glorified because people, made in His image, are using God-given talents to do their storytelling.

Well said. Music is an "art form". That is why they are called "artists". It needs to be thought of in that way -- expressions. Expressions can be interpreted a variety of different ways. Some people, when they hear drums and electric guitars, think "devil music!" and they hate it. Some hear the same tunes and beats and worship God, the creator of music.

Rock

[Tracey]

Why are we so adamant on labeling music? What makes a song Christian? There's lots of "secular" songs that mention Jesus and lots of "Christian" songs that never directly mention Jesus' name.

I know I'm asking a lot of questions and please don't think that I'm trying to be nasty. I'm just throwing things out to try to make people think.

........... and Rog ..... why do you consider it a "weakness"?? Yes we have to be careful as far as what we allow to come into our bodies (mind included here) but listening to a great Van Halen jam doesn't make you any less a Christian. (IMHO)

Side note: Did you know that Wagner (Ride of the Valkyries), one of the great composers, was a practicing Satanist?? True. Check it out. And Grieg (think Morning Suite) was a die hard existentialist? And yet the music they made is still listened to today.

Sharon is correct.

There is no such thing as secular music. Some music glorifies darkness, and a lot more glorifies God than people realize. It amazes me how people will classify music into secular vs. religious, but won't do the same for movies. They're essentially the same thing: a way of storytelling.

If a country song tells the story of the pain of a breakup which resulted from adultery, they are glorifying God, because they are explaining how sin has affected their lives. This is no different from, say, the bible telling us how David suffered because of adultery.

If a rap song is telling about life on the streets and is not specifically glorifying evil, then it is just telling a story, which glorifies God. If a pop song talks about a man being in love with a girl, then God is glorified.

Besides the individual stories being told, God is being glorified because people, made in His image, are using God-given talents to do their storytelling.

AGREED and AGREED.

To me it's not 'us' that say weather it's 'secular' or not...it's more of where it's located in the music store. I totally agree with you guys though. There's a lot of songs that could be 'classified as christian' but they are not 'known' as that way.

I think I just ramble and nothing makes any sense...I hope it does lol.

[Tony Trout]

Why are we so adamant on labeling music? What makes a song Christian? There's lots of "secular" songs that mention Jesus and lots of "Christian" songs that never directly mention Jesus' name.

I know I'm asking a lot of questions and please don't think that I'm trying to be nasty. I'm just throwing things out to try to make people think.

........... and Rog ..... why do you consider it a "weakness"?? Yes we have to be careful as far as what we allow to come into our bodies (mind included here) but listening to a great Van Halen jam doesn't make you any less a Christian. (IMHO)




Sharon is correct.

There is no such thing as secular music. Some music glorifies darkness, and a lot more glorifies God than people realize. It amazes me how people will classify music into secular vs. religious, but won't do the same for movies. They're essentially the same thing: a way of storytelling.

If a country song tells the story of the pain of a breakup which resulted from adultery, they are glorifying God, because they are explaining how sin has affected their lives. This is no different from, say, the bible telling us how David suffered because of adultery.

If a rap song is telling about life on the streets and is not specifically glorifying evil, then it is just telling a story, which glorifies God. If a pop song talks about a man being in love with a girl, then God is glorified.

Besides the individual stories being told, God is being glorified because people, made in His image, are using God-given talents to do their storytelling.

Well said. Music is an "art form". That is why they are called "artists". It needs to be thought of in that way -- expressions. Expressions can be interpreted a variety of different ways. Some people, when they hear drums and electric guitars, think "devil music!" and they hate it. Some hear the same tunes and beats and worship God, the creator of music.

Rock


Agreed....on all counts!

As an extension on what I've been battling with my pastor about, some people in my church think that all secular music is bad and that you don't need to listen to it and it needs to be thrown out of your house...:rolleyes: :rolleyes: Granted, as Sharon said, we do need to guard what we allow into our bodies and mind) but I absolutely don't agree that all secular music is bad music...

Music is music...as a matter of fact, I'm listening/watching Alicia Keys on "Live With Regis & Kelly" at this very moment....does that make me a bad person? No.

[middletree]

but I absolutely don't agree that all secular music is bad music...

And I reiterate that this statement isn't really correct because there is no such thing as secular music. All music glorifies either God or darkness. "Secular" implies there's a middle ground. Tell your pastor you'll never perform secular music, because there isn't any.

Music is music...as a matter of fact, I'm listening/watching Alicia Keys on "Live With Regis & Kelly" at this very moment....does that make me a bad person? No.

It says something negative about you, but not because you are listening to Alicia Keys. It's because you're watching Regis and Kelly ;)

[3D NC fan]

As an extension on what I've been battling with my pastor about, some people in my church think that all secular music is bad and that you don't need to listen to it and it needs to be thrown out of your house...:rolleyes: :rolleyes: Granted, as Sharon said, we do need to guard what we allow into our bodies and mind) but I absolutely don't agree that all secular music is bad music...

Music is music...as a matter of fact, I'm listening/watching Alicia Keys on "Live With Regis & Kelly" at this very moment....does that make me a bad person? No.

If music makes you happy, no need to apologize or feel bad for listening to it or performing. I enjoy listening to Molly Hatchet, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Outlaws, Blackfoot, REO Speedwagon, Loverboy, Journey and others. Third Day's music is what I listen to most, but there are many other talented musicians as well including Alicia Keys.

[TN3Dmom]

Good music is good music, and I listen to all kinds. Lately, though, I have been listening mostly to "Christian" bands. But I love to every once in a while put the IPOD on shuffle and smile at what a great mix I get.

[Tony Trout]

And I reiterate that this statement isn't really correct because there is no such thing as secular music. All music glorifies either God or darkness. "Secular" implies there's a middle ground. Tell your pastor you'll never perform secular music, because there isn't any.


Good point, Mr. James.




It says something negative about you, but not because you are listening to Alicia Keys. It's because you're watching Regis and Kelly ;)

:P :P ;)


If music makes you happy, no need to apologize or feel bad for listening to it or performing. I enjoy listening to Molly Hatchet, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Outlaws, Blackfoot, REO Speedwagon, Loverboy, Journey and others. Third Day's music is what I listen to most, but there are many other talented musicians as well including Alicia Keys.


:D :D :D

[Evanescence]

If music doesn't have the label CHRSTIAN on the cover...its not glorifying God...

It's SIN...and HELLFIRE is a danger !!!!!!!!!!!!

REPENT !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[WeaselInYerFoot]

I once talked to a guy at church who thought that it should be essential to every Christian who wanted a relationship with God to listen to strictly Christian [themed] music. I couldn't help but laugh when he said that, because I knew that he was a big fan of Family Force 5 (I played one of their songs through the sound system before the service and he came up and told me how much he loved them).

"But why would that make laugh Weasel?" you may ask.

Because even though Family Force 5 is fun to listen to, their lyrics are dumb and simple and have no deep Spiritual meaning. Their lyrics are as superficial as the Beach Boys and have no point other than parties and dancing and raising your hands up in the air like you just don't freakin' care. That's fine, I have no problem with that. You have to let loose sometimes and just have some fun. But this guys' point (of only listening to Christian music) directly contradicted his persona because even though Family Force 5 is composed of proclaimed Christians, their music is no different than a secular band.

[middletree]

My kids (ages 6 and below) recently got into some Christian kids' singing group called Pure NRG. The songs are way too bubble-gum for my taste, but they're good for what they are. Anyway, one of the songs on the CD is Footloose, a song that, when it was popular in the early 80's, got played on the radio so much I never wanted to hear it again. And now I'm hearing it again and again and again.
In the middle of dinner the other night, my 4-year-old blurted out "Kick off your sunday shoes!"

Sheesh.

[WeaselInYerFoot]

If music doesn't have the label CHRSTIAN on the cover...its not glorifying God...

It's SIN...and HELLFIRE is a danger !!!!!!!!!!!!

REPENT !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Like this?....

http://porktornado.diaryland.com/images/cc.jpg

[allyoop]

Does anyone remember the song Audio Adrenaline did called "Houseplants"?
It was kinda a tongue-in-cheek response to this very topic. Sometimes I listen to "secular" stations, and sometimes, depending on the song, I feel a conviction by the Holy Spirit and I turn the station. There really is a lot of great music out there that doesn't fit the "christian" mold, but I agree that it glorifies God in other ways.

[Tony Trout]

My kids (ages 6 and below) recently got into some Christian kids' singing group called Pure NRG. The songs are way too bubble-gum for my taste, but they're good for what they are. Anyway, one of the songs on the CD is Footloose, a song that, when it was popular in the early 80's, got played on the radio so much I never wanted to hear it again. And now I'm hearing it again and again and again.
In the middle of dinner the other night, my 4-year-old blurted out "Kick off your sunday shoes!"

Sheesh.




I love the song, "Footloose"! I also like, "Your Mama Don't Dance" by Loggins & Messina.

[larryl]

Sharon is correct.

There is no such thing as secular music. Some music glorifies darkness, and a lot more glorifies God than people realize. It amazes me how people will classify music into secular vs. religious, but won't do the same for movies. They're essentially the same thing: a way of storytelling.

If a country song tells the story of the pain of a breakup which resulted from adultery, they are glorifying God, because they are explaining how sin has affected their lives. This is no different from, say, the bible telling us how David suffered because of adultery.

If a rap song is telling about life on the streets and is not specifically glorifying evil, then it is just telling a story, which glorifies God. If a pop song talks about a man being in love with a girl, then God is glorified.

Besides the individual stories being told, God is being glorified because people, made in His image, are using God-given talents to do their storytelling.


i couldn't have said it any better. exactly.

[Tony Trout]

i couldn't have said it any better. exactly.

Agreed! Spot on!

[Tracey]

i couldn't have said it any better. exactly.

Agreed! Spot on!

This is just scary I think I've reached my agreement limit with my cuz tony here...but I agree with these guys!

[Evanescence]

Like this?....

http://porktornado.diaryland.com/images/cc.jpg

haha...love the Mustache and Beehive on the woman. I can see that they're good, outstanding, moral people of God... :rolleyes:

BTW- for those who might have missed it, my REPENT comment was sarcasm...

[ExtravagantlyLoved]

I agree with what's been said so far, so I really don't have much of anything to add. You just have to look at the content of what you're listening to, not the label that's put on it.

I feel the same way about genres of music, ie, rock, pop, rap, country, etc. For me, music I like to listen to, is simply that, music I like to listen to, and I don't really see the point in categorizing it beyond that. Just my opinion.

Because even though Family Force 5 is fun to listen to, their lyrics are dumb and simple and have no deep Spiritual meaning. Their lyrics are as superficial as the Beach Boys and have no point other than parties and dancing and raising your hands up in the air like you just don't freakin' care. That's fine, I have no problem with that. You have to let loose sometimes and just have some fun. But this guys' point (of only listening to Christian music) directly contradicted his persona because even though Family Force 5 is composed of proclaimed Christians, their music is no different than a secular band.
I'm not trying to start a Family Force 5 debate, but I did want to say something about them. Yes, I would say that most of their songs don't really have any deep meaning, but there is at least one exception in my mind. I think "Replace Me" is a rather good worship song, and I would love to see it done at a church some day, if it hasn't been done already.
Does anyone remember the song Audio Adrenaline did called "Houseplants"?
It was kinda a tongue-in-cheek response to this very topic.
Yeah, I know the one you're talking about. It's actually called "The Houseplant Song." I think it's brilliant, and it definitely points out the futility of arguing with people about music.

[kiwisongbird]

We LOVE the Houseplant song in our household!

Wagner - eww, I cannot listen to his music - it freaks me out!

Lizt (how do you spell that?) - I love his music but looking at his lifestyle, he was a real bad dude with the ladies - so I can't figure that one out!

When I first "came back to the Lord" (sorry about the jargon, but that's kinda what I did) I thought any music that was NOT worship was evil - I actually thought Amy Grant was borderline! :) But I'm ok now! Um, my favourite music is Gershwin and will be forever and their music is never about Jesus, mostly about love - I love it! :)

[ExtravagantlyLoved]

We LOVE the Houseplant song in our household!

Wagner - eww, I cannot listen to his music - it freaks me out!

Lizt (how do you spell that?) - I love his music but looking at his lifestyle, he was a real bad dude with the ladies - so I can't figure that one out!

When I first "came back to the Lord" (sorry about the jargon, but that's kinda what I did) I thought any music that was NOT worship was evil - I actually thought Amy Grant was borderline! :) But I'm ok now! Um, my favourite music is Gershwin and will be forever and their music is never about Jesus, mostly about love - I love it! :)
I love Wagner. But I tend to drawn to stuff that's off-the-beaten-path, so to speak.

And I believe it's Liszt. Don't know much about him. Looks like my Google toolbar will be getting more use. ;)

[freakysoccer]

i listen to a ton of christian music, from third day, casting crowns, skillet, decemberadio, hyperstatic union...those are just to name a few. but i listen to a ton of secular stuff from brad paisley, jimmy buffet, kenny chesney, dave matthews, lynyrd skynyrd, zz top, atlanta rhythm section, sinatra, elvis, martina mcbride, U2, CCR, aerosmith and the list goes on....music is very important to me and it helps me with things in everyday life, whether it be something happy and funny like cheesburger in paradise(jimmy buffet) or something serious like broken wing(martina mcbride) i love music of all types from classical to rap, i have a need for music and there's so much more out there than just christian, i mean i love christian because it's so fufilling and uplifting but sometimes you just gotta get out of one little area and listen to something different. and as most can predict, 3D is my favorite band of all time, for me, they are in a genre all their own.

[jesus loves me]

Third day is the only christian music i listen to. the rest of the time i'm glued to country music - some of that rocks! he i could get hold of a skynyrd cd, i'd listen to that too.

[Pouye]

When I first "came back to the Lord" (sorry about the jargon, but that's kinda what I did) I thought any music that was NOT worship was evil - I actually thought Amy Grant was borderline! :) But I'm ok now!

This is the usual pattern, and I think it is healthy. Paul talks about this very thing with brothers and sisters who have a weak conscience/faith verses those who do not have a weak conscience/faith. I have come to realise that what Paul was talking about is linked to understanding what freedom in Christ means. Freedom in Christ does not mean a person is free to sin, but rather they have freedom from earthly things that bind people to things that are not relevant to the Kingdom of God, as Paul teaches in Romans 14:

"For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit, because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and approved by men." (vs. 17)

If our focus as believers in Christ is to seek righteous and glorify God, the irrelevant things end up being of no concern. I have the freedom to walk into a bar, have a beer and listen to country music. This is just what Jesus did:

"The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, ‘Here is a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and “sinners.” ’ But wisdom is proved right by her actions.” Matthew 11:19-

"While Jesus was having dinner at Levi's house, many tax collectors and “sinners” were eating with him and his disciples, for there were many who followed him. When the teachers of the law who were Pharisees saw him eating with the “sinners” and tax collectors, they asked his disciples: “Why does he eat with tax collectors and ‘sinners’?”
On hearing this, Jesus said to them, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”
Mark 2:15-

Would any of us think anything if Jesus Christ came back as He was in the flesh, walked into a bar/pub and ordered a beer? Would we think, "Oh, no... not Jesus!" No. We would know that He had a purpose for being in there, and that he wasn't there for ungodly reasons. A person who is mature in Christ has "overcome the world" with the "mind of Christ".

Rock

[middletree]

I love Wagner.
Porter?

[Evanescence]

Porter?

Jack...the guy from Melrose Place... ;)

[SmileyFreak1981]

I don't care if music is labeled "Christian" or "secular." If I like it, I like it. If I don't then I won't listen to it. Declaring something as sinful to listen to simply because it hasn't come out of the CCM industry/machine and isn't labeled "Christian" is, quite frankly, kind of asinine.

The only music that is sinful is the stuff that conjures up or praises satan/demons/witches/etc. and the stuff that is full of hate.

[Sharon]

Porter?

Jack...the guy from Melrose Place... ;)


.... such uncultered ingrates :rolleyes:

[Tony Trout]

Porter?

Jack...the guy from Melrose Place... ;)


Wasn't he one of them there "one hit wonders"??? The only song I remember of his is "All I Need"......

[WeaselInYerFoot]

Any of you remember Foreigner? Remember that song called "I wanna know what love is"? I just heard it the other day and thought "Wow, that would make an awesome worship song". You can hear a streaming sample here (http://www.skreemr.com/link.jsp?id=605A4654575D6 B) if you don't remember it.

[TheBus36(Retired)]

Why are we so adamant on labeling music? .

Because we like to give you something to comment on. :D

You know, I used to think it really didn't matter (at least for me). But when I started slowly listening to Christian music, the more I listened the more I changed, and as I've said before that is why Third Day is so special to me. They were the first band I really truly just liked, and then it and my faith just grew from there. It, for whatever reason softened my heart to allow me to really understand what being a Christian was all about. With that being said, once in a while I listen to some of the bands I listened to growing up, but other than that I listen to mostly CM. Little long winded, just wanted to give Sharon something to comment on. :D

[WeaselInYerFoot]

haha...love the Mustache and Beehive on the woman.

Beehive? hah! that's nothing compared to this one...

http://img399.imageshack.us/img399/3868/richeyhairsu0.jpg

I don't how you can have that much hair. There must some kind of a plastic barrel beneath it all to make it so... outstanding? for lack of a better term.

[Sharon]

Because we like to give you something to comment on. :D

You know, I used to think it really didn't matter (at least for me). But when I started slowly listening to Christian music, the more I listened the more I changed, and as I've said before that is why Third Day is so special to me. They were the first band I really truly just liked, and then it and my faith just grew from there. It, for whatever reason softened my heart to allow me to really understand what being a Christian was all about. With that being said, once in a while I listen to some of the bands I listened to growing up, but other than that I listen to mostly CM. Little long winded, just wanted to give Sharon something to comment on. :D


We do like to put things in a convenient box .... we even try to do that to God.

And actually, (I might choke on this), but what you said was very wise. I mostly listen to worship music myself but every once in a while I have an urge to bring out the Aqua Net so I put on some Bon Jovi,Y&T or Van Halen.

Does it mean I'm on a rollerskate to hell or backsliding on a banana peel? No..... of course not.

Music is a very powerful force though and it does influence you, whether you know it or not, which is why I'm always careful. Note the wording ...... careful instead of legalistic.

[Tracey]

We do like to put things in a convenient box .... we even try to do that to God.

And actually, (I might choke on this), but what you said was very wise. I mostly listen to worship music myself but every once in a while I have an urge to bring out the Aqua Net so I put on some Bon Jovi,Y&T or Van Halen.

Does it mean I'm on a rollerskate to hell or backsliding on a banana peel? No..... of course not.

Music is a very powerful force though and it does influence you, whether you know it or not, which is why I'm always careful. Note the wording ...... careful instead of legalistic.

LOL nicely said...I agree!

[middletree]

the Aqua Net so I put on some Bon Jovi,Y&T or Van Halen.

Aqua Net? :) ;)

[Sharon]

Aqua Net? :) ;)


Don't even tell me you don't remember the "hair bands" .... :rolleyes:

[Salome]

Music is a very powerful force though and it does influence you, whether you know it or not, which is why I'm always careful. Note the wording ...... careful instead of legalistic.

What she said.

Definition of Secular: Worldly rather than spiritual. Not specifically pertaining to religion or to a religious body.

We need music labels because it makes shopping in a music store soooo much easier.

Listening to christian music my mind stays more focused on God and godly things than when I don't. But I do listen to music other than just christian.

I think God convicts different people of different things at different times. We're always growing, hopefully, in the Lord.

Legalisim is an easy trap to become snared in.

[ExtravagantlyLoved]

Porter?
No. Richard Wagner. The German composer. I haven't made it quite far enough in my music history classes to know a whole lot about him, but I know that his music is strange. And I tend to like strange music.

And I think Porter's last name is spelled with an 'o'. Wagoner.

[larryl]

And I think Porter's last name is spelled with an 'o'. Wagoner.

correct!!!

and no one hit wonder, he.......

also... (i had an album cover i wanted to post here... but it's not online anywhere... i need to scan the cover of the sanctified glory mountain revival family!!)

[middletree]

Definition of Secular: Worldly rather than spiritual. Not specifically pertaining to religion or to a religious body.


And that's why I maintain there is no such thing as secular music. Some music glorifies darkness. Most music glorifies God. There is nothing that's neutral.

Listening to christian music my mind stays more focused on God and godly things than when I don't.

And I get the same benefit from listening to what many refer to as secular music. I can't begin to count the number of times God has used such songs to teach me something, or draw me to Him.

[middletree]

No. Richard Wagner. The German composer. I haven't made it quite far enough in my music history classes to know a whole lot about him, but I know that his music is strange. And I tend to like strange music.

And I think Porter's last name is spelled with an 'o'. Wagoner.
I was joking.

I don't know Wagner's music, but as a student of european history, I do know that he really hated Jews.

[pamcharlie]

As a christian i listen to both christian and secular music and i love 80s music and i think as christians we have to give our choices to God and let him help us to be wise in our choices . and there are some groups that i don't listen to anymore due to my relationship with Jesus .

[PROMISED LAND]

I listen to both, but mainly Christian at the moment....my secular band is The Grateful Dead....I did the go on tour with The Dead in my younger years....i still enjoy their music today....

[Howlin' Wolf]

best music ever!!! (http://www.myspace.com/thebattleofmeadowbridge)

[middletree]

best music ever!!! (http://www.myspace.com/thebattleofmeadowbridge)

Jason, I thought that link was gonna be to the White Stripes.

[Howlin' Wolf]

Jason, I thought that link was gonna be to the White Stripes.

it would be the stripes if i didnt have a band myself.

speaking of the white stripes, go and purchase the new raconteurs album, the consolers of the lonely, ASAP!

[Hawkeye Childs]

I've pretty much stopped listening to Christian music altogether. The only band I will still listen to is dc Talk. Other than them, I listen to all secular music. I'm a different person than I used to be, and I'm liking myself more now. Now you all can post a reply to me on here about how I'm a heathen sinner and need to repent, I disagree and I know it's not wrong, so...that's me. What can I say...I'm very open minded. So nobody judge me, that's the reason I left the boards for so long in the past.

-Haylo

[middletree]

I'm not judging you, just correcting you. There is no such thing as secular music. Read my previous posts here to understand why. ;)

[Howlin' Wolf]

I've pretty much stopped listening to Christian music altogether. The only band I will still listen to is dc Talk. Other than them, I listen to all secular music. I'm a different person than I used to be, and I'm liking myself more now. Now you all can post a reply to me on here about how I'm a heathen sinner and need to repent, I disagree and I know it's not wrong, so...that's me. What can I say...I'm very open minded. So nobody judge me, that's the reason I left the boards for so long in the past.

-Haylo

youre a sinner!!! b/c i bet youre a daughtry or nickleback fan. and they make baby jesus cry

[Hawkeye Childs]

youre a sinner!!! b/c i bet youre a daughtry or nickleback fan. and they make baby jesus cry

i don't like daughtrey or nickleback at all.....don't bet anything about me.

[Howlin' Wolf]

music, in general, is just extremely bad right now. every genre is marketing toward 13 year old girls. rap is god-awful. country sounds like pop music with a fiddle. rock is terrible!!! what happened to guitar solos? emo sucks and so does that whole androgenous sub culture. ccm is terrible. this is what bothers me......if johnny cash, elvis, or ray charles were up and coming artists, they probably wouldnt even garner a record deal. and if they did, they would be forced to conform and made to sound like everyone else. it is quite depressing.

[Hawkeye Childs]

music, in general, is just extremely bad right now. every genre is marketing toward 13 year old girls. rap is god-awful. country sounds like pop music with a fiddle. rock is terrible!!! what happened to guitar solos? emo sucks and so does that whole androgenous sub culture. ccm is terrible. this is what bothers me......if johnny cash, elvis, or ray charles were up and coming artists, they probably wouldnt even garner a record deal. and if they did, they would be forced to conform and made to sound like everyone else. it is quite depressing.

I don't listen to anything new unless it is out by an old artist, i'm incredibly picky. I know music today is horrible, I can't stand it!!!

[Howlin' Wolf]

I don't listen to anything new unless it is out by an old artist, i'm incredibly picky. I know music today is horrible, I can't stand it!!!

tugging at my heart strings!!!

here are a few bands to check out.
the greenhornes
the white stripes
the raconteurs
the black keys
the battle of meadow bridge

[Hawkeye Childs]

tugging at my heart strings!!!

here are a few bands to check out.
the greenhornes
the white stripes
the raconteurs
the black keys
the battle of meadow bridge


I already like a lot of The White Stripes stuff :) haha And i added you on Yahoo if that's ok.

[Howlin' Wolf]

i love their vintage sound.

[Hawkeye Childs]

i love their vintage sound.

yeah! :) By the way I'm Hayley in case you didn't know.

[Howlin' Wolf]

yeah! :) By the way I'm Hayley in case you didn't know.


well hayley, one question i must ask is this.

has ccm and essential records neutered third day or did they choose of their own volition to transform themselves from a southern rock band to a michael w. smith cover band?

[Valpo]

hahaha

oh boy, been missing this

[Hawkeye Childs]

well hayley, one question i must ask is this.

has ccm and essential records neutered third day or did they choose of their own volition to transform themselves from a southern rock band to a michael w. smith cover band?

haha to be honest i stopped listening to them years ago! I miss the old days.... i'm asking the same thing!! haha you're awesome

[allyoop]

music, in general, is just extremely bad right now. every genre is marketing toward 13 year old girls. rap is god-awful. country sounds like pop music with a fiddle. rock is terrible!!! what happened to guitar solos? emo sucks and so does that whole androgenous sub culture. ccm is terrible. this is what bothers me......if johnny cash, elvis, or ray charles were up and coming artists, they probably wouldnt even garner a record deal. and if they did, they would be forced to conform and made to sound like everyone else. it is quite depressing


This is exactly what I have been unable to put into words. You are so very correct. It also explains why so many youth are into bands from the past. My own teenage boys are always "borrowing" my cd's. I don't think they even listen to "current" music. I hope this pattern of blandness changes soon. A fresh new sound would be, well, quite refreshing.

[Tony Trout]

music, in general, is just extremely bad right now. every genre is marketing toward 13 year old girls. rap is god-awful. country sounds like pop music with a fiddle. rock is terrible!!! what happened to guitar solos? emo sucks and so does that whole androgenous sub culture. ccm is terrible. this is what bothers me......if johnny cash, elvis, or ray charles were up and coming artists, they probably wouldn't even garner a record deal. and if they did, they would be forced to conform and made to sound like everyone else. it is quite depressing.


Boy, I knew there was a reason I liked you, Tulip! ;) You are so right about artists like Cash and Elvis having a tough time getting a record deal these days if they were still here. IMO, the "sounding like everyone else" sentence (at least in my opinion) would definitely apply to everybody in country music and NashVegas (Nashville, TN).

SPOT ON, BROTHER! AMEN! WOOT! BRAVO!! HURRAH!!

GREAT POST!!


*standing...err...sitting ovation for Tulip*

[Salome]

And that's why I maintain there is no such thing as secular music. Some music glorifies darkness. Most music glorifies God. There is nothing that's neutral.



And I get the same benefit from listening to what many refer to as secular music. I can't begin to count the number of times God has used such songs to teach me something, or draw me to Him.

So, you equate secular with being neutral? That's interesting. I don't agree, but I see why you said what you did if that is your definition. Also, Tulip -- why did you use the term god-awful? I don't get that. Those two words don't go together at all for me.

[Howlin' Wolf]

indie bands have it figured out. there is good music out there. u just wont here it on the radio or mtv or at lifeway.

[Howlin' Wolf]

So, you equate secular with being neutral? That's interesting. I don't agree, but I see why you said what you did if that is your definition. Also, Tulip -- why did you use the term god-awful? I don't get that. Those two words don't go together at all for me.

its a southern thing, love

[Howlin' Wolf]

So, you equate secular with being neutral? That's interesting. I don't agree, but I see why you said what you did if that is your definition. Also, Tulip -- why did you use the term god-awful? I don't get that. Those two words don't go together at all for me.

james is saying that music, like all art, cant be defined as secular or christian. music isnt inherently christian or secular. it is art. and some of it glorifies christ. some of it doesnt. there is quite a bit of ccm fluff that doesnt glorify christ.

[Salome]

its a southern thing, love


HAHAHA!! said the Yank :D

although I have to say, I bristle a bit when I hear it. can't help it.

[Howlin' Wolf]

HAHAHA!! said the Yank :D

although I have to say, I bristle a bit when I hear it. can't help it.

i bristle when i hear daughtry.

[WeaselInYerFoot]

They're out there. You won't find most of them on the radio sadly.

The bravery (http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user .viewprofile&friendID=1188721)
MGMT (http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user .viewprofile&friendID=3242691)
Stephen Malkmus (http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user .viewprofile&friendID=16349952)
Pop Levi (http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user .viewprofile&friendID=28962669) (ignore the Remixes) Sugar Assault Me Now is awesome.
Black Rebel Motorcycle Club (http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user .viewprofile&friendID=11441193)
Kings of Leon (http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user .viewprofile&friendID=8554512)
The Dirtbombs (http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user .viewprofile&friendID=66836614)
Thornley (http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user .viewprofile&friendID=61385970) (Old but still awesome, I loved Big Wreck (http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user .viewprofile&friendID=42500414) so it's only natural to love Thornley)

and I don't care what anyone says about Muse (http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user .viewprofile&friendID=15049710). Like wine, I think they get better over time. Knights of Cydonia (http://www.skreemr.com/link.jsp?id=665B4A505058) will give anyone the courage to head-butt a mountain goat.

[Hawkeye Childs]

james is saying that music, like all art, cant be defined as secular or christian. music isnt inherently christian or secular. it is art. and some of it glorifies christ. some of it doesnt. there is quite a bit of ccm fluff that doesnt glorify christ.

Exactly!! Thank you!

[Howlin' Wolf]

everyone go out immediately and buy all the arctic monkeys stuff you can!

[R. Smith]

I didn't start this thread so people can attact each other's taste in music, christian or otherwise. My feeling is, what you listen to...its between you & God. I mostly listen to Christian music, but from time to time...I get into bands like - U2, Lifehouse, Switchfoot, Oasis, the Rolling Stones, the Police...etc.

If I ever get married, and my wife doesn't like or listen to Secular music, I won't listen to it anymore. For the record...I'm not getting married, or even dating any1 right now.

[middletree]

I didn't start this thread so people can attact each other's taste


I didn't see anyone attack anyone's taste.

my wife doesn't like or listen to Secular music, I won't listen to it anymore.

There is no such thing as secular music.

[Pouye]

There is no such thing as secular music.

Again, a world view issue... ;)

Rock

[middletree]

This one is very closely related to the other one, too. I am quite sure I'm right on this one. Just waiting for the rest of you to come around....

[phil_ur_friend]

Sharon is correct.

There is no such thing as secular music.


Seculian and Christular music is good.

Parnod my lysdexia.:)

[Genna14]

Sharon is correct.

There is no such thing as secular music. Some music glorifies darkness, and a lot more glorifies God than people realize. It amazes me how people will classify music into secular vs. religious, but won't do the same for movies. They're essentially the same thing: a way of storytelling.

If a country song tells the story of the pain of a breakup which resulted from adultery, they are glorifying God, because they are explaining how sin has affected their lives. This is no different from, say, the bible telling us how David suffered because of adultery.

If a rap song is telling about life on the streets and is not specifically glorifying evil, then it is just telling a story, which glorifies God. If a pop song talks about a man being in love with a girl, then God is glorified.

Besides the individual stories being told, God is being glorified because people, made in His image, are using God-given talents to do their storytelling.
You know, I really have to agree with you here...there are so many songs that I believe glorify God that people don't even realize.

If I have to be honest, I listen to a lot of "secular" music. I love Bon Jovi, Guns 'N' Roses...Probably not exactly what I should be listening to but yeah...lol

[Pouye]

This one is very closely related to the other one, too. I am quite sure I'm right on this one. Just waiting for the rest of you to come around....

So you agree that the "secular vs. Christian music" is a false dichotomy. I do, too. I'm just waiting for you to come around on the "spirit realm vs. material realm" false dichotomy...;)

I also agree with you on the "sinner saved by grace vs. new creation" dichotomy.

Rock

[middletree]

So you agree that the "secular vs. Christian music" is a false dichotomy. I do, too. I'm just waiting for you to come around on the "spirit realm vs. material realm" false dichotomy...;)


Nice try.

I also agree with you on the "sinner saved by grace vs. new creation" dichotomy.
Well, at least you have something right.

Perhaps I should just list out those things I know are right, and everyone should agree with me on. Here's a first draft:

1. There is no such thing as secular music.
2. We (Christians) are not sinners.
3. Only use the word "awesome" for something that is truly awe-inspiring.
4. Wear glasses if you need 'em.
5. There's nothing wrong if a baseball All-Star game ends in a tie.
6. God is not Republican.
7. There is a distinction between the material world and the spiritual realm.
8. When in an elevator or some other small space with a stranger, never start talking about the weather just to break the silence.
9. Neither Soccer nor Linux will ever be as popular in the US as their fans say they will.
10. Most cuss words are not sinful.
11. Drinking is not a sin.
12. We aren't under the 10 Commandments.
13. Bob Dylan and the Beatles are both way overrated.

[TN3Dmom]

Perhaps I should just list out those things I know are right, and everyone should agree with me on. Here's a first draft:


2. We (Christians) are not sinners.

Are you kidding on this one? I could not tell. I don't spend a lot of time in word forum where this might have been discussed, but REALLY???

[Salome]

4. Wear glasses if you need 'em.


What about wearing them if you don't need them ....... ahem.

[middletree]

Are you kidding on this one? I could not tell. I don't spend a lot of time in word forum where this might have been discussed, but REALLY???

I am not kidding about any of these. To avoid hijacking this thread anymore than I already have, I'll send you a PM. We've had a few threads on this in the Word forum.

[WeaselInYerFoot]

9. Neither Soccer nor Linux will ever be as popular in the US as their fans say they will.


Hey! I agree with all but #9, those are fightin' words. Half of it anyways. Soccer's never gonna surpass the dramatic beauty of American football.

[Andi]

Nice try.


Well, at least you have something right.

Perhaps I should just list out those things I know are right, and everyone should agree with me on. Here's a first draft:

1. There is no such thing as secular music.
2. We (Christians) are not sinners.
3. Only use the word "awesome" for something that is truly awe-inspiring.
4. Wear glasses if you need 'em.
5. There's nothing wrong if a baseball All-Star game ends in a tie.
6. God is not Republican.
7. There is a distinction between the material world and the spiritual realm.
8. When in an elevator or some other small space with a stranger, never start talking about the weather just to break the silence.
9. Neither Soccer nor Linux will ever be as popular in the US as their fans say they will.
10. Most cuss words are not sinful.
11. Drinking is not a sin.
12. We aren't under the 10 Commandments.


C'mon James - I know you can come up with at least 15!? Has this been posted on www.middletree.net (http://www.middletree.net) yet? :cool:

[mat1583]

Nice try.


Well, at least you have something right.

Perhaps I should just list out those things I know are right, and everyone should agree with me on. Here's a first draft:

1. There is no such thing as secular music.
2. We (Christians) are not sinners.
3. Only use the word "awesome" for something that is truly awe-inspiring.
4. Wear glasses if you need 'em.
5. There's nothing wrong if a baseball All-Star game ends in a tie.
6. God is not Republican.
7. There is a distinction between the material world and the spiritual realm.
8. When in an elevator or some other small space with a stranger, never start talking about the weather just to break the silence.
9. Neither Soccer nor Linux will ever be as popular in the US as their fans say they will.
10. Most cuss words are not sinful.
11. Drinking is not a sin.
12. We aren't under the 10 Commandments.
13. Bob Dylan and the Beatles are both way overrated.

Me likey!

-washboard

[Tony Trout]

Me likey!

-washboard


Me too!!