Comments on: Discussion: Losing My Religion?

By: Travis McClain

Travis McClain — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 13:43:28 +0000

Man, am I late to the party! By this point, I could either just go down the list of points I agree with (boring), or I can ask a question (hopefully less boring). Most of the examples cited of “good” religious songs have been various performances of standards. Steve from Boston, for instance, cited Carrie Underwood’s performance of “How Great Thou Art.”

So the $64,000 question is: Why aren’t more newer songs “good?” Is it merely another casualty of the slipping standards in songwriting and production? Is today’s audience less discerning? Is it that today’s worshipers are more superficial? Or maybe something else entirely?

By: Summer Lewis

Summer Lewis — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 08:50:36 +0000

actually it doesn’t matter what Religion you may have, as long as you treat the other person right.~’”

By: Cutting the Treacle

Cutting the Treacle — Mon, 24 May 2010 16:55:12 +0000

“In reality, no single religion could guarantee us a place in Heaven. In the end, what matters is how we a treat other people”

I saw that After School Special too.

By: Lillian King

Lillian King — Mon, 24 May 2010 12:17:26 +0000

In reality, no single religion could guarantee us a place in Heaven. In the end, what matters is how we a treat other people.*’*

By: Erik North

Erik North — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 15:02:23 +0000

I agree with Jane’s approach to things–there’s nothing wrong with injecting God and religion into country music, so long as it’s not done from a pulpit, or involves using the Bible as a weapon. But sometimes in country music, the difference between religion and spirituality is blurred by those who do force their own views on others. As it is so often said: “Religion is for those who fear going to Hell, while spirituality is for those who have actually been through it.”

That being said, I do like the Man In Black’s approach (e.g. “Daddy Sang Bass”), as well as Elvis’ frequent excursions into Gospel (“Peace In The Valley”; “Crying In The Chapel”, etc.).

By: Leeann Ward

Leeann Ward — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 13:03:06 +0000

It’s quite interesting how the discussion thread here on this subject is so much different than the one over on the CMT blog. I’m impressed with the thoughtfulness of the comments here.

By: Jane

Jane — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 12:12:24 +0000

I don’t mind religious songs – I would consider myself spiritual rather than religious – I agree with what others have said. Country sometimes does very shallow songs. Religion should feel inspired, and beautiful, but sometimes it seems like some singers are using religion or trying to prove something to their fans. I don’t care if my favourite artists go to Church, I just want to hear good songs, that have a inspired message – Something that means something.

By: Steve from Boston

Steve from Boston — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 06:20:00 +0000

Now “tawk amoungst yourselves.”.Lol!

Gotta love Mike Myers!

By: Steve from Boston

Steve from Boston — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 06:13:53 +0000

Craig R, Thanks, but I was borrowing the phrase that modern country “leans towards the stupid” from Hollerin’ Ben (great board name you chose there Ben..) Wish it was my phrase though, and I was using it in agreement with Ben. Yeah, depth is the thing, I think you put your finger on it there Craig.

And Patrick, I’m not totally against public expression of one’s faith, as long as it is done with dignity and sincerity, and brings honor to the Creator. Yeah, I think we certainly agree that “termninal tackiness” should be avoided at all costs, and no cheap plastic-Jesus should be erected for misguided veneration…in music or lyric, or in word or in deed by those who profess the Faith.

It can be a fine line though, no doubt.

By: John

John — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 05:54:43 +0000

I really hesitated posting on this, to the point where I left the window up for a full day. While I will never begrudge someone their religious beliefs, it seems sometimes that they doth protest too much. And this comes from someone who knows their minister on a first-name basis inside and outside the church. I prefer my religion to be personal, not on a billboard, but I guess that’s where I differ from a lot of country fans.