Published: March 1, 2005
50 CENT LINKED TO CHRISTIAN RAP MUSIC?
Houston,
TX (BlackNews.com) - Rap music producer Sean Blaze, who helped arm
rapper 50 Cent with musical ammunition that influenced over 11 million
people to "Get Rich or Die Tryin", aids Christian Rap group's
fight to reverse the collateral damage. Despite the darker themes often
associated with hip-hop music today, a higher purpose of restoration and
a vision to rebuild serves as the catalyst behind this unlikely alliance.
To those that oppose hip-hop music, it is nothing more than a fascination for pimped out rides, high maintenance video vixens, gangster profiles and the over indulgent lifestyle. Those paying closer attention may have noticed many rappers are taking stock in their spiritual lives and expressing themselves through heart felt lyrics that suggest a battle cry for change. Rap artists signed to SGR Music Group, commonly referred to as Gladiators, are the torchbearers in this emerging new genre of rap music. Not long ago however, many of these same Titans of Truth were on the front lines leading the charge of corrupt communication on CDs.
"Rap music is our Trojan Horse," explains D. Smith, the steward of Houston Based SGR Music Group. "We were called out from some of the same circles as Master P, 8 Ball & MJG, Criminal Elament, Triple 6 Mafia and Cash Money Records," he adds. Ironically, as Smith and his band of Gladiators leverage hip hop music as the new underground railroad leading this generation to spiritual emancipation, several of their former industry associates have re-surfaced to help further the cause.
The distinction between SGR's brand of Gladiator Music and the rap music monopolizing mainstream airwaves today is not easily identifiable at first listen. It's after the onslaught of heavy bass-laden grooves and un-compromised dirty south beats that you discover the jewel beneath the surface. The priceless and timeless message of hope, inspiration and faith in Christ reveals what sets SGR and it's Gladiators apart. For many bangers, drug dealers, single parents as well as many considered to be living the dream but void of peace, Gladiator Music is a breath of fresh air for those wanting to turn over a new leaf without turning in rap music. Members and staff of SGR Music group all share the common purpose to use music as a platform to penetrate the hearts of this generation. Since 1998, they have witnessed the message in the music wake up sleeping giants in communities abroad and renew many lives in the process.
Hear more from the SGR Gladiators on their 8th independent offering Gladiator Music Vol. I to be released this spring. They will also be performing live in April, during GMA week in Nashville.
For more information on SGR Music Group, log onto www.sgrmusicgroup.com
Related articles on Sean Blaze and 50 cent (CNN) and Hip Hop and Religion (MTV) below:
www.cnn.com/2003/SHOWBIZ/Music/02/19/ew.review.mus.50.cent
www.mtv.com/bands/h/hip_hop_religion/news_feature_071904/index.jhtml
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