After the Music Stops by Lecrae (CD, Aug-2006, Cross Movement Records)

Originally when I began listening to Christian Rap it was so that my children and friends who are Rap fans could come to my home and hear Christian music in their preferred genre. Then I discovered Cross Movement Records, which is LaCrae's record company. I decided to buy this CD after I went to the Cross Movement Record's website and heard several of his songs. I happen to think that LaCrae has an awesome Rap style and stands up for Christian values at the same times. It is refreshing to hear good rap music take a stand for Christian beliefs, including not doing drugs, not having sex until marriage, etc. I have heard some other Christian Rap CD's that combine hard rock and rap, as if they are not sure what their genre is, but LaCrae knows that he is a rapper and he is a good rapper. He knows his medium, has a good strong beat and yet has a positive message. I have had mainstream rap fans come to visit while I was playing LaCrae and they really enjoyed it, not realizing in the beginning that it was Christian rap. They just appreciated the strong rhythmic beat and were able to enjoy the music. I try to have Christian CD's that encompass all genre's so that my guests can hear a Christian message in a way that they can respond to. For example, expecting a person who appreciates rap to listen to traditional hymns is not very viable, but providing a rap fan with Christian Rap gets my message to them in a way they can identify with.

This CD is pure ministry for Christians. Lecrae does not in any way compromise the gospel message in order to be marketable. He truly is an artist that seeks to glorify Jesus Christ in his music, and he is a superior hip hop artist to boot. I don't think that any Christian should try to be "like the world" in order to be popular, but the world has discovered Lecrae and loves him. Hes just talent, pure and simple. If you don't like rap, I HIGHLY recommend that you pick up this CD. I'll bet it will change your mind.