With the United States in the midst of a revival, Christian musicians, actors, and films are enjoying increased popularity. Films such as “I Can Only Imagine”, “Won’t You Be My Neighbor” and “God’s Not Dead” have drawn Christians and secular people alike to the positive messaging of hope, kindness, and redemption.
Whether everyday Americans are in need of a more positive message or are rekindling their love, faith, and devotion, each person must look into their own hearts for answers. But without a doubt, Christian artists and their crafts are more welcome than ever and their popularity proves that fact.
Chris Pratt Spreading the Word in Hollywood
Ranked among the most popular movie stars today, Chris Pratt has not shied away from his devotion to God. He’s also been quick to recognize that his significant popularity provides a platform to preach the Gospel.
“That kind of message, it might not be for everybody,” Pratt reportedly said. “But there is a group of people for whom that message is designed. And nothing fills my soul more than to think that maybe some kid watching that would say, ‘Hey, I’ve been thinking about praying. Let me try that out.’”
The star of the Guardians of the Galaxy, Jurassic World franchises, and many other hits, Pratt takes each public appearance opportunity to tell young people that “God loves you.” Although he’s immersed in a Hollywood industry many consider anti-Christian, Pratt continues to be photographed attending church services and speaking out about the power of Christ.
“I think that there’s this narrative that exists out there that Hollywood is anti-Christian or anti-religious, but it’s just not the case,” Pratt reportedly said. “They are kind of not anti-anything. They are kind of pro whatever is authentic to you. And I like that. Because it’s authentic for me to be pro-Christian, pro-Jesus. That’s my thing. I like it.”
Lauren Daigle Album Leaps Up Charts
It’s difficult to know whether the skyrocketing popularity is due to tremendous talent, heightened awareness, or the fact that 62 percent of all Americans are Christians. It could also be all of the above. But it seemed inconceivable that a Christian musician could outpace elite pop artists just 10 years ago.
Lauren Daigle’s recent release, “Look Up Child,” has vaulted past Drake, Ariana Grande, and Nicki Minaj in its first week. Reaching No. 2 on the Billboard 200 chart, Daigle’s Christian album sold 115,000 units in the first week. Her Christian album had such impact out of the gate that even Rolling Stone magazine offered praise.
“The album’s success highlights something broader, however: the deep persistence of Christian music in the U.S. audience — an aspect of music consumption that has been largely skipped over by headlines proclaiming rap as the sole driver of modern music in America,” Rolling Stone stated.
“While rap and R&B have indeed risen to become the leading genre of music consumption, Christian music remains a sizable minority mass. Solid numbers are hard to come by, but at its annual conference in 2015, the Gospel Music Association reported that 68 percent of Americans had listened to Christian or gospel music within the last 30 days.”
Daigle’s new album features the hit single “You Say,” which has been a juggernaut on Christian and mainstream stations alike.
“I don’t shy away from singing about my faith,” Daigle reportedly said. “I think it conveys honesty, and people see authenticity. More people are going to relate to my music if it’s sincere. I believe that wholeheartedly. That’s how you reach people that might not have felt (the Christian genre) was their home before.”
Avril Lavigne Turns Fear into Hope
Like Daigle, Avril Lavigne recently released an inspiration hit with stunning popular reception. In just five days from its Sept. 19 release, her “Head Above Water” single was viewed on YouTube more than 5 million times. The song reflects her bout with Lyme Disease and prayers to God in her darkest hours.
“One night, I thought I was dying, and I had accepted that I was going to die. My mom laid with me in bed and held me,” she reportedly said. “I felt like I was drowning. Under my breath, I prayed ‘God, please help to keep my head above the water.’ In that moment, the songwriting of this album began. It was like I tapped into something. It was a very spiritual experience. Lyrics flooded through me from that point on.”
~ Christian Patriot Daily
