Michael Tait, lead singer of Newsboys since 2009, and seasoned keyboardist Jeff Frankenstein share their insights from decades in contemporary Christian music. They explore why musicians are deconstructing their faith and discuss the challenges between authenticity and commercial pressures in the industry. The duo emphasizes the importance of genuine connections and emotional authenticity in worship. They also reflect on the potential spiritual revival among younger generations engaging with Christian music.
Michael Tait and Jeff Frankenstein share their personal journeys to faith, highlighting how their unique backgrounds influenced their beliefs and convictions.
The discussion on musicians deconstructing faith emphasizes the need for compassionate responses within the Christian community rather than judgmental attitudes towards those doubting.
Tate and Frankenstein address the challenges within contemporary Christian music, noting how commercialization can compromise authenticity and overshadow meaningful messages.
Deep dives
Journey to Faith
Michael Tate and Jeff Frankenstein share personal stories about their paths to faith, illustrating how their backgrounds shaped their beliefs. Tate grew up as the youngest of nine in a pastoral family, where church attendance was a non-negotiable expectation. His conversion was influenced by a compelling school speaker, leading him to develop a deep understanding of faith in high school. Similarly, Frankenstein recounts his journey from a non-Christian family to becoming a pastor's child, highlighting the significant experiences that shaped his convictions.
Understanding Deconstruction
The discussion around the deconstruction of faith among musicians reveals a complex interplay between free will, doubt, and human nature. Tate emphasizes that while free will allows for temptation and doubts, it can also lead individuals to search deeper for their faith. He reflects on personal struggles with doubt during tours, illustrating the importance of seeking God during challenging times. Frankenstein adds that reactions to fellow believers deconstructing have often been judgmental rather than compassionate, suggesting a need for more empathetic responses within the Christian community.
Challenges of the Contemporary Music Industry
Both artists address the tension between business and faith within contemporary Christian music (CCM), suggesting that commercialization can compromise the authenticity of artists. They note how newcomers in the industry often face pressures to conform to market demands, which can dilute their meaningful messages. This conflict leads to a culture where character depth is sometimes overshadowed by commercial viability. The loss of personal connections in today's digital world compounds this issue, making it harder for artists to maintain integrity in their music and message.
Navigating Doubts and Groundedness
Both Tate and Frankenstein acknowledge the challenges of staying grounded amid the pressures of fame and performance. They emphasize the importance of surrounding themselves with supportive individuals who can provide insights during moments of doubt. Tate cites the power of prayer and spiritual mentorship as essential tools in navigating uncertainties in their faith. This acknowledgment of human flaws allows them to be relatable and emphasizes the need for ongoing personal reflection and growth.
The Future of Christian Music
The artists discuss a potential revival in the Christian music scene, indicating that younger generations may reshape the genre's future. They note an increase in the diversity of musical styles and the use of social media as a powerful tool for reaching new audiences. While challenges exist, there is a sense of optimism that artists can authentically express their faith outside conventional industry constraints. The growth statistics indicate a budding spiritual awakening among younger listeners, revitalizing interest and participation in Christian music.
The Newsboys have been one of the most successful and recognizable Christian bands for four decades. What have they learned over their time as leaders in the contemporary Christian music scene? And what are their thoughts on why so many musicians are deconstructing and deconverting from the faith? Is there something wrong with the CCM that needs addressing? In this interview, I talk with lead singer Michael Tait and keyboardist Jeff Frankenstein.
Watch the Newsboys recent song: "Heaven on Earth" (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=saWzY_194jc)
Newsboys Latest Album: https://www.newsboys.com.
*Get a MASTERS IN APOLOGETICS or SCIENCE AND RELIGION at BIOLA (https://bit.ly/3LdNqKf)
*USE Discount Code [SMDCERTDISC] for 25% off the BIOLA APOLOGETICS CERTIFICATE program (https://bit.ly/3AzfPFM)
*See our fully online UNDERGRAD DEGREE in Bible, Theology, and Apologetics: (https://bit.ly/448STKK)
FOLLOW ME ON SOCIAL MEDIA:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Sean_McDowell
TikTok: @sean_mcdowell
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seanmcdowell/
Website: https://seanmcdowell.org
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode