Sho Baraka — He Saw That It Was Good

Hip hop artist and author, Sho Baraka, joins Nate to talk about refreshing our theology of work, strengthening the relationship between creatives and the Church, and adding variety to the genres and voices we turn to for spiritual nurture.

[2:08] Could you tell us a little about your book (its creation)?

[6:47] Could you say a little about help for creatives and what you hope to see?

[8:33] One of the things I noticed throughout your book is a concern with the devaluing of the oral tradition and folk stories in Christianity. Could you say a little about that?

[11:20] I’m wondering if there’s a connection [between devaluing oral stories] and losing some of the creativity in Christian life, church life.

[14:55] Your work in hip hop, is that carrying on the oral tradition? 

[21:03] Have you been to the African American Smithsonian?

[21:54] There is such a robust history and wisdom in the historical Black church that I feel is often lost on White America. Are there pieces of that tradition that you wish people knew or that you think would be helpful?

[25:11] Could you unpack the term “evangelical edit?”

[26:25] In your book you talk about a conversation you had with your daughter when she was seven, where she came and talked to you about her skin color and hair. Can you tell that story?

[29:51] What do you hope people will take from your book?

Resources

• He Saw That It Was Good, by Sho Baraka
• Album: “The Narrative,” Sho Baraka, 2016