ABSTRACT
Throughout African American religious history, Christianity has served as an empowering force for African Americans to endure the struggle and as a tool by the oppressor maintain control. Particularly focusing on Hip Hop, this contested usage of Christianity contributes to some Hip Hoppas claiming it as the “White man’s religion,” while others identify resist systemic oppression through their Christian worldview. Using a qualitative mixed-methods approach, the author examines the “Wade-O Radio Show,” interviews with emcees such as Lecrae Moore, and the social media activity of rappers Eddie Velez and Hazakim. The author argues that although they all identify as Christian and are a part of Hip Hop, they are also people of color who represent multiple ontologies. Such deejays and emcees reveal how one can be Christian and Hip Hop while still identifying with the Black freedom struggle. At other times they represent a paradox within Christian and Hip Hop circles, given that their brand of Christianity defies the very nature of “true” Hip Hop.
