Bonus Ep. 4: God, Rock and Roll, and Bloody Noses w/ Leah Payne
May 5, 2024
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Leah Payne, author of 'God Gave you Rock and Roll: A History of Contemporary Christian Music,' discusses the cultural significance of Christian rock, White evangelicalism's ideals, and hilarious personal stories. They also cover the Trump immunity trial's impact on democracy and delve into a report on trans care in the UK. The episode wraps up with responses to thought-provoking AMAs.
Christian music reflects evangelical ideals of family and gender roles.
Trump immunity trial threatens democracy and legal cases like Jack Smith's.
Report on UK trans care may impact US, sparking discussions on healthcare and rights.
Deep dives
A Night at the Viper Room with Isaiah and Katy Perry
One summer, Brad visits the Viper Room to watch his friend Isaiah perform in a band. Katy Perry, who is just transitioning from Christian pop to mainstream pop, is also there. The intimate setting and grotesque humor make for a memorable night, with Brad realizing the forthcoming stardom of Katy Perry.
Backstage Anecdotes: Celebrities in Nashville
Brad shares tales from his time in Nashville, including encounters with Billy Ray Cyrus. Despite infrequent interactions, Brad notes the intriguing presence and aesthetic of musicians like Ben Folds and the lighthearted atmosphere in which celebrities were observed.
On the Cusp of Fame with Kings of Leon
Marcus, a fellow Pentecostal friend, introduces Brad to the emerging band Kings of Leon before they hit it big. Initially skeptical, Brad later reflects on the serendipitous connection and the irony of his previous indifference to the band's future success.
Energetic Memories: Rocking out at Shows
Brad reminisces about attending shows with Isaiah and friends who were deeply ingrained in the rock music scene. From high school Moshpits to accompanying rock stars in clubs, these experiences provide a vibrant snapshot of the eclectic music world they traversed.
Exploring the Nashville Music Scene
Brad delves into the vibrant music scene of Nashville, sharing insights from encounters with Katy Perry, chatting about Jenny's phone number, and mingling with diverse talents like the lead singer of 8675309/Jenny fame. These anecdotes capture the quirky and memorable moments within the music industry.
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Our monthly bonus episode begins with a visit from Dr. Leah Payne, author of God Gave you Rock and Roll: A History of Contemporary Christian Music. Brad and Dan ask her about the cultural significance of God rock and the ways that it reflects White evangelicalism's ideal family, gender roles, and sexual ethic. They all also tell hilarious stories of their own youthful experiences with Christian music - including the time Dan broke a dude's nose in a mosh pit and then prayed it out with him as a good brother in Christ.
In the second hour, they turn to the Trump immunity trial and the ways it is threatening to tank the Jack Smith case and erode our democracy from within. Dan then does a deep dive into a report about trans care coming out of the UK - something that will make its way across the pond soon to the ears of every Uncle Ron in the country.
The episode finishes with responses to a few very thoughtful AMAs.