The Gospel Truth Sadé Thomas Jesus and drill

THERE IS no doubt that drill music has grown rapidly in popularity since its inception.

Originating from Chicago in the early 2010s, what makes the sub-genre so distinctive is a combination of hard hitting beats and bass, as well as lyrics that express artists’ realities of violence, crime and gang culture.

Despite its large fan base, many critics argue that drill music encourages and glamorises criminal behaviour. However, while some see the drill genre as problematic, there is an emergence of Christian artists who are using the drill genre to communicate a more positive message directing their listeners to God. Speaking to London-based Christian rapper and multi award-winning artist Reblah – real name, Micheal Olafioye – we discussed the beauty that can be found in Christian drill music and why it has a growing audience.

Sadé Thomas: As someone who is well-versed in creating Christian drill music, what do you think attracts people to this type of music?

Reblah: Sonically speaking, drill music has a similar beats per minute to the UK’s genre grime. With this in mind, people gravitate to the music because of its energetic feel, largely resonating with a younger audience. There is also a meditative element to drill music, which draws listeners in.

ST: Given the meditative elements within the genre do you think this is helpful when delivering the Christian message through drill?

R: Yes, definitely, although the melodies surrounding drill music are meditative, they often contain darker messaging which clearly shows that there is a space for messages of hope, positivity and life to be explored.

As a Christian though, I’m intentional about the lyricism used in my music and I know that life and death are in the power of the tongue, so I’m conscious that my music needs to be informed by my Christian faith as it can have an influence on the thoughts and behaviours of those listening.

ST: You mentioned being intentional with your lyrical content and this is important to you. What exactly is your process when writing songs?

R: I make sure everything that I release is in alignment with the word of God, this also means being led by His spirit which will lead us into all truth.

Just like it says in scripture, ‘they shall know the truth and truth shall set you free’.

This is particularly important with drill music, considering a lot of the artists are consumed by a lifestyle of violence, crime and other negative ways of living, so communicating a Godly message to these issues can bring freedom.

ST: Speaking of freedom, have you seen an impact on what Christian drill music is having on those outside of the Christian faith?

R: For sure the impact is big, because we are bringing a Christian message to a new audience and people are responsive to it because it holds the truth and we see its impact through the lives that are changed.

ST: With drill music becoming increasingly popular within the Christian scene, are there any Christian artists we should be listening to?

R: There are a whole host of people that are making waves in the Christian drill space for example, artists such as: Konola, Living Testimony, 678Nath, Rev J and Zelijah Tishbite all give so much to the Christian drill genre.

ST: Lastly, before we close, how would you encourage those who have clear talent within the drill scene to use the voices to promote positivity?

Reblah: One thing I would say is that you are made in the image of God and that God loves you. I would encourage those that are using their talents to communicate a darker message not to always look at the negative side of life but to dream big and be more positive. Ultimately though, by knowing Jesus, you can ensure that your art is not only positive but that you can live a life that you will never regret.

UPWARD TRAJECTORY: Reblah says it’s important to be informed by his Christian faith

In addition to being interviewed in this month’s feature, we also had to spotlight Reblah for his sensational release Turn Around, as this month’s top pick.

Reblah’s ability to be direct and yet sincere in his lyricism, enables listeners to really capture the premise of the song which is – that a life without God is no life at all.

Reblah’s expertise in selecting skilled features for his releases, is evident in ‘Turn Around’ as both Nashbi and Shirlvin Desir, deliver their sections with conviction reinforcing the importance of who God is in all His truth.

For fans of quality rap music, not only will you enjoy this single but I am certain that every listener will have this anthem on repeat to allow its cutting but necessary message to sink in.

As for future releases, you can expect that Reblah will continue to release strong songs that break down genre barriers but never compromise on the Godly message.

Stay updated with Reblah’s artistry by following him @reblahgram on Instagram and his single Turn Around is available on all digital streaming platforms.