In the world of music, especially in genres like rap and hip-hop, it’s no secret that explicit lyrics often take center stage. But Liberian rapper Mr. Church is challenging the status quo, and his message is turning heads. In a recent discussion, he openly criticized fellow artists for relying too heavily on raw, explicit content in their music. Instead, he’s advocating for a return to creativity, subtlety, and thoughtful expression. He claims that for most Liberian artists, the only way their music will gain traction is by making it very explicit (rude) enough to suit the wider audience of young listeners, who primarily think that sex and drugs are all to life.
Mr. Church isn’t just talking the talk, he’s walking the walk. His latest track, “My Zone,” is a testament to his philosophy. The song tackles mature themes but does so in a way that doesn’t overwhelm listeners with explicit language. Instead, it weaves these ideas into a compelling narrative, proving that powerful messages can be delivered without relying solely on shock value.
So, what’s his beef with explicit lyrics? Mr. Church believes that many artists today are leaning too heavily on on releasing songs with explicit lyrics rather than honing their craft. He argues that true artistry lies in the ability to connect with audiences through innovation and creativity. By focusing on thoughtful songwriting, he says, artists can create music that resonates on a deeper level and stands the test of time.
But Mr. Church’s bold stance doesn’t stop there. He’s also made a deliberate choice to avoid rapping in Kolokwa, a Liberian English dialect commonly used by many of his peers. Why? He wants to stand out and reach a broader, more global audience. While this decision might raise eyebrows, it’s clear that Mr. Church is committed to carving his own path in the industry.
His message is simple: music is an art form, and artists have a responsibility to push boundaries and explore new ways to express themselves. By prioritizing creativity over controversy, Mr. Church hopes to inspire his fellow musicians to elevate their craft and create music that truly matters.
