Why Jackie Hill Perry Walked Away from Music—And Why She Came Back
Jan 30, 2025
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Jackie Hill Perry, a talented Christian artist, poet, and Bible teacher, reflects on her unique creative journey in music and poetry. She candidly discusses her decision to step away from music at its peak and the compelling reasons for her return. The conversation covers the tension between influence and integrity, the transformative power of hip-hop in discipleship, and her childhood memories within the Black church. Jackie also shares insights on navigating faith and creativity, including how she balances theological depth with artistic expression.
Jackie Hill Perry's journey highlights the balance between integrity and influence in her artistic expression and faith.
Her return to music emphasizes using her platform for a greater purpose, bridging theological insights with societal challenges.
Deep dives
Exploring Christian Hedonism and Joy
Jackie Hill Perry discusses her artistic growth through exploring the concept of Christian hedonism, which emphasizes finding joy in God. Her album, 'The Art of Joy,' reflects her journey from a legalistic mindset to understanding that true joy is found in loving and knowing God. By engaging with this idea, she aims to communicate how a relationship with God brings profound happiness and fulfillment. This pivot in her understanding not only shaped her music but also resonated deeply with her audience, encouraging them to find joy in their faith.
Addressing Social Issues through Music
Perry addresses the pain and injustices present in society through her song 'The Solution,' which was inspired by the tragic story of a young man's death due to violence. The song encapsulates her frustration over societal issues, emphasizing that turning to God and seeking joy in Him could lead to healing and transformation. Within the lyrics, she communicates a deep sense of lament and a call to repentance as she seeks not only justice but also a deeper understanding of the Christian faith's role in societal change. This powerful blend of personal experience and theological insight makes her music both relatable and impactful.
The Transition from Music to Writing and Teaching
Jackie Hill Perry reflects on her shift from music to focusing on writing and teaching as her core ministry. She recognizes that her primary calling lies in equipping the church through Bible teaching, especially as her personal circumstances evolved with marriage and motherhood. During this phase, she produced impactful conferences and published books that connected people to solid biblical teaching. This intentional focus allowed her to prioritize spiritual growth while still using her artistic talent to serve and engage with the broader community.
Returning to Music with a New Perspective
Perry's return to music comes with greater intention and a desire to use her platform for the glory of God. She sees music as a significant avenue for influence, targeting a broader audience to connect them to Christ and biblical principles. After years of feeling unfulfilled in her absence from the music scene, she sensed God's leading to return, reminding her that her artistic expression could serve a greater purpose. This renewed commitment relies on grounding herself in her faith and the lessons learned during her time away from music, cultivating a holistic approach to her artistry.
Jackie Hill Perry pulled off the rare creative hat trick—poet, rapper, Bible teacher—and then walked away from music at her peak. Why? And why is she back now? We get into it: the tension between influence and integrity, why theology and justice aren’t enemies, and how hip-hop can be a tool for discipleship. Plus, a game of “Bar Exam” where Jackie tries (and sometimes fails) to remember her own lyrics.
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