To Be or Not to Be, That Isn't the Question

Over on the CHR forum, the discussion of an old MuteMath interview surfaced again. Is the band Christian or not? Should we be playing them on our station? What are their worldviews?

Seems to be the same questions over and over about the same bands (i.e. The Fray, MuteMath, U2, etc.). And everyone stands differently. There doesn't seem to be a resounding, one stance from CHR on these bands.

But I ask you, what makes a band Christian? Is it the lyrics? Is it how they live their life? Is it how they are portrayed in the media? Is it how they are marketed by a label?

I think it boils down to this. Is that act supporting your radio station? Have you seen them at a conference? Have you heard of them doing a Christian radio tour? Have they been live on air at a station? If you can say "yes" to any of those questions, then I think the act should be considered for a slot in your playlist.

Did you hesitate on any of those questions? If so, I think you better do a little more research. But don't let the media/label/PR tell you who they are. Go straight to their music. Remember, the reason people are drawn to music is because it is another way to express what you can't in words. And don't go any further than the music. If the music stands the test, then I say, "Go for it."

You know you always have those "Holy Rollers" that listen to your station. Keep in mind that the one person that does call doesn't represent the other 99.99 percent of your audience.

Something my dad always taught me: anyone in ministry will never satisfy everyone 100 percent of the time. Do what you think is right. At least until they start picketing. Then you might have another problem.