What's All This Ruckus About God and Hip-Hop?

by: Ken W.

What does it mean to have “good-clean fun?” Is it possible even? Can it be glorifying to God? The Old Testament speaks of rejoicing in all good things God has given us, the Psalms sing of joy, and the New Testament is overflowing with joy. So what does it all mean? Well, it could mean that we should take our God given joy and create a royal ruckus!

Enter Michael Walker and Jamey Bennett, long time friends from Southern California, both formally trained and one-time high school orchestra students, now turned satirical hip-hop artists known as “Royal Ruckus.” Together they have accumulated nearly 200 songs according to member Jamey Bennett.

The Ruckus’ Flicker debut is catchy, fun, slightly skewered hip-hop, and has a bit of pop-sensibilities. “Fun is something often lacking in much of hip-hop,” said Jamey. This tongue-in-cheek humor is culturally relevant as well. Most predominantly the duo picks on themselves and their aspiring careers at Starbucks Coffee. “Starbucks sets the profile for our record,” says Jamey, “my life is Latte.”

The fun doesn’t stop at Starbucks; “Let’s Start A Boy Band” takes a punch at teen mania and MTV’s TRL, “MP-Free” is a short interlude explaining how downloading songs for free affects the artist, and “The Latte, Latte Show” takes another swing at the coffee culture.

Royal Ruckus also takes on some serious issues, in a Superchic[k] sort of way; “Geeky Music 4 Kidz” strikes a cord as it takes on popularity and “coolness,” and “Wink & A Nudge” includes dating advice (among other words of wisdom).

There is a serious side as well; “Bob Went Crazy” is about sharing the gospel in a positive way that will not distort the truth, “Check It Out” is a motivational calling to do what ever we do – the best we can: all for the glory of God, “My Friend” looks to Christ for strength during hard times, including saying goodbye to departed friends or family.

Michael and Jamey didn’t sit down and map out a career path for Royal Ruckus, but when things started, it all just came together. “We're excited to be where we are and we feel that God is continuing to provide,” says Jamey, “We like to have a lot of fun in life and it’s translated on this record really well.”

Music is just one avenue in their lives where God can be glorified and they like to think all of their life is reflective of their faith. Jamey hopes that people will see through the humor and music to the root of what they are doing, which is to impact our culture for Christ. Creating music is just one of God’s amazing gifts they can use.

Hidden beneath this satirical hip-hop is serious scripture and life evangelism.

Web Links: www.royalruckus.com & www.flickerrecords.com