Steve Taylor's "To Forgive" Is The Magnolia Of Christian Rock: The "On The Fritz" Album, Side A (#024) God Gave Rock & Roll To You podcast

#Music #Religion #Christianity #Matt Beaton

1:15:36

In this episode, we welcome back David French, columnist for The New York Times , former constitutional attorney, and author of Divided We Fall . We discuss the current state of American democracy, the challenges of political division, and how we can engage in civil discourse despite deep ideological differences. David also shares a personal update on his family and reflects on the profound trials and growth that come with adversity. 📌 What We Discuss: ✔️ How David and his family navigated the challenges of a serious health crisis. ✔️ The rise of political polarization and the factors driving it. ✔️ Why distinguishing between “unwise, unethical, and unlawful” is crucial in analyzing political actions. ✔️ How consuming different perspectives (even opposing ones) helps in understanding political dynamics. ✔️ The role of Christian values in politics and how they are being redefined. ⏳ Episode Highlights 📍 [00:01:00] – David French’s background and his journey from litigation to journalism. 📍 [00:02:30] – Personal update: David shares his wife Nancy’s battle with cancer and their journey as a family. 📍 [00:06:00] – How to navigate personal trials while maintaining faith and resilience. 📍 [00:10:00] – The danger of political paranoia and the pitfalls of extreme polarization. 📍 [00:18:00] – The "friend-enemy" paradigm in American politics and its influence in Christian fundamentalism. 📍 [00:24:00] – Revisiting Divided We Fall : How America’s divisions have devolved since 2020. 📍 [00:40:00] – The categories and differences of unwise, unethical, and unlawful political actions. 📍 [00:55:00] – The balance between justice, kindness, and humility in political engagement. 📍 [01:00:00] – The After Party initiative: A Christian approach to politics focused on values rather than policy. 💬 Featured Quotes 🔹 "You don't know who you truly are until your values are tested." – David French 🔹 "If we focus on the relational, we can have better conversations even across deep differences." – Corey Nathan 🔹 "Justice, kindness, and humility—if you're missing one, you're doing it wrong." – David French 🔹 "The United States has a history of shifting without repenting. We just move on." – David French 📚 Resources Mentioned David French’s Writing: New York Times David’s Book: Divided We Fall The After Party Initiative – More Info Advisory Opinions Podcast (with Sarah Isgur & David French) – Listen Here 📣 Call to Action If you found this conversation insightful, please: ✅ Subscribe to Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other on your favorite podcast platform. ✅ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen: ratethispodcast.com/goodfaithpolitics ✅ Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/politicsandreligion ✅ Watch the full conversation and subscribe on YouTube: youtube.com/@politicsandreligion 🔗 Connect With Us on Social Media @coreysnathan: Bluesky LinkedIn Instagram Threads Facebook Substack David French: 🔗 Twitter | BlueSky | New York Times Our Sponsors Meza Wealth Management: www.mezawealth.com Prolux Autogroup: www.proluxautogroup.com or www.granadahillsairporttransportation.com Let’s keep talking politics and religion—with gentleness and respect. 🎙️💡…

God Gave Rock & Roll To You »
Steve Taylor's "To Forgive" is the Magnolia of Christian Rock: The "On the Fritz" Album, Side A (#024)

8 days ago 57:17

MP3•Episode home

Send us a text

We continue our comprehensive exploration into Steve Taylor's ouvre, this time tackling his second full-length album, 1986's On The Fritz. We cover the secularization of the sacred with "This Disco (Used To Be A Cute Cathedral)". We try to figure out what "On The Fritz" means. We discuss whether "It's A Personal Thing" makes sense anymore in our current political climate. Then we go deep on one of our all-time favorite Christian Rock songs, the stone-cold classic "To Forgive", which is a reminder of what is true and beautiful about the Gospel, and makes us think of the movie Magnolia.

Bands/ Artists discussed:

Steve Taylor

Voivod

Terry Scott Taylor

Gene Eugene

Nick Cave

Kanye West

Aimee Mann

God Gave Rock & Roll To You is a podcast exploring the Christian rock subculture of the late 20th century, hosted by Matt Beaton with co-hosts Doug Dickens and Tony Hormillosa.

We are friends who each grew up in a distinct version of this world, and we want to discuss what it was, where it came from, and what it turned into. We’ll be taking many side roads along the way, while listening to some of the best (and worst) music of the era..

Please subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.
You can submit questions or comments for the hosts at godgaverockmail@gmail.com.
Show and host information can be found on our website:
https://godgaverock.buzzsprout.com

24 episodes

Steve Taylor's "To Forgive" is the Magnolia of Christian Rock: The "On the Fritz" Album, Side A (#024)

God Gave Rock & Roll To You

published 8 days ago

MP3•Episode home

Send us a text

Bands/ Artists discussed:

Steve Taylor

Voivod

Terry Scott Taylor

Gene Eugene

Nick Cave

Kanye West

Aimee Mann

God Gave Rock & Roll To You is a podcast exploring the Christian rock subculture of the late 20th century, hosted by Matt Beaton with co-hosts Doug Dickens and Tony Hormillosa.

24 episodes

#Music #Religion #Christianity #Matt Beaton

All episodes

1
Steve Taylor's "To Forgive" is the Magnolia of Christian Rock: The "On the Fritz" Album, Side A (#024) 57:17

8 days ago57:17

57:17

Send us a text We continue our comprehensive exploration into Steve Taylor's ouvre, this time tackling his second full-length album, 1986's On The Fritz . We cover the secularization of the sacred with "This Disco (Used To Be A Cute Cathedral)". We try to figure out what "On The Fritz" means. We discuss whether "It's A Personal Thing" makes sense anymore in our current political climate. Then we go deep on one of our all-time favorite Christian Rock songs, the stone-cold classic "To Forgive", which is a reminder of what is true and beautiful about the Gospel, and makes us think of the movie Magnolia . Bands/ Artists discussed: Steve Taylor Voivod Terry Scott Taylor Gene Eugene Nick Cave Kanye West Aimee Mann God Gave Rock & Roll To You is a podcast exploring the Christian rock subculture of the late 20th century, hosted by Matt Beaton with co-hosts Doug Dickens and Tony Hormillosa. We are friends who each grew up in a distinct version of this world, and we want to discuss what it was, where it came from, and what it turned into. We’ll be taking many side roads along the way, while listening to some of the best (and worst) music of the era.. Please subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. You can submit questions or comments for the hosts at godgaverockmail@gmail.com . Show and host information can be found on our website: https://godgaverock.buzzsprout.com…

1
Steve Taylor Drinks Milk From A Christian Cow: The "Meltdown" Album, Side B (#023) 1:07:24

8 weeks ago1:07:24

1:07:24

Send us a text We continue our ridiculous in-depth, track by track analysis of Steve Taylor's first full length album, 1984's Meltdown, covering the last five tracks. Standouts include the great song "Sin For A Season" and "Guilty By Association". Bands/ Artists discussed: Steve Taylor Starflyer 59 Dance House Children Pixies The Smiths Morrissey Mountain Goats The Weakerthans God Gave Rock & Roll To You is a podcast exploring the Christian rock subculture of the late 20th century, hosted by Matt Beaton with co-hosts Doug Dickens and Tony Hormillosa. We are friends who each grew up in a distinct version of this world, and we want to discuss what it was, where it came from, and what it turned into. We’ll be taking many side roads along the way, while listening to some of the best (and worst) music of the era.. Please subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. You can submit questions or comments for the hosts at godgaverockmail@gmail.com . Show and host information can be found on our website: https://godgaverock.buzzsprout.com…

1
Steve Taylor Solves Racism: The "Meltdown" Album, Side A (#022) 1:04:34

10 weeks ago1:04:34

1:04:34

Send us a text We continue our track by track analysis of Steve Taylor's work. We only get halfway through his classic first full-length album, 1984's Meltdown, because there is so much to talk about. Highlights on this side include Taylor's groundbreaking song "We Don't Need No Colour Code" which boldly takes on racism in the Church, and "Am I In Sync", which is one of our all-time favorite Steve Taylor songs. Bands/ Artists discussed: Steve Taylor Chicago Bears Shufflin' Crew The Fat Boys Run DMC Public Enemy Barry McGuire Larry Norman Bob Dylan Conor Oberst Pleasant Grove Opening sketch is Bill Pullman from Saturday Night Live Season 22, Episode 3 God Gave Rock & Roll To You is a podcast exploring the Christian rock subculture of the late 20th century, hosted by Matt Beaton with co-hosts Doug Dickens and Tony Hormillosa. We are friends who each grew up in a distinct version of this world, and we want to discuss what it was, where it came from, and what it turned into. We’ll be taking many side roads along the way, while listening to some of the best (and worst) music of the era.. Please subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. You can submit questions or comments for the hosts at godgaverockmail@gmail.com . Show and host information can be found on our website: https://godgaverock.buzzsprout.com…

1
Steve Taylor is the Eminem of 80's Christian Rap: The "I Want To Be A Clone" EP (#021) 1:18:55

12 weeks ago1:18:55

1:18:55

Send us a text We're back for a new year! This is the first in a series of episodes diving into the music of Christian alternative rock artist Steve Taylor. His music was ubiquitous in our youth, and we are going to go deep into his songwriting, both musically and lyrically. Steve Taylor was a pioneer in Christian rock, using his formidable songwriting skills to skewer American culture and Church culture with quick wit and scathing humor, starting with his first EP, I Want To Be A Clone , which was released in 1983. We do a track by track analysis of this album in this episode, and of course this spawns some great conversations. Bands/ Artists discussed: Steve Taylor Chagall Guevara Larry Norman Russ Taff Petra Silver Jews Sugar Hill Gang Grandmaster Flash Blondie Eminem Pedro the Lion Dire Straits Sixpence None the Richer Book : God Gave Rock and Roll To You: A History of Contemporary Christian Music , by Dr. Leah Payne Podcast : Rock That Doesn't Roll: The Story of Christian Music Thanks to @christiannightmares for the ad clip at the cold open. God Gave Rock & Roll To You is a podcast exploring the Christian rock subculture of the late 20th century, hosted by Matt Beaton with co-hosts Doug Dickens and Tony Hormillosa. We are friends who each grew up in a distinct version of this world, and we want to discuss what it was, where it came from, and what it turned into. We’ll be taking many side roads along the way, while listening to some of the best (and worst) music of the era.. Please subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. You can submit questions or comments for the hosts at godgaverockmail@gmail.com . Show and host information can be found on our website: https://godgaverock.buzzsprout.com…

1
Mennonites Were Rolling In The Aisles: Interview with Comedian Jeremy Alder Part 2 (#020) 47:55

19 weeks ago47:55

47:55

Send us a text We continue our conversation with comedian Jeremy Alder. He describes how his preaching stints at Mennonite services primed him for standup, and how his divorce led him to find a connection in the stand up comedy community. He discusses the art of "clean comedy" and how his negotiations with the faith of his childhood have provided a source for his work. Bands/ Artists discussed: MC Hammer Pleasant Grove Silver Jews Purple Mountains Drive By Truckers Jason Isbell Ghoti Hook References: Book: Rich Christians in an Age of Hunger - Ronald J. Sider Jeremy's Instagram: jeremy.alder God Gave Rock & Roll To You is a podcast exploring the Christian rock subculture of the late 20th century, hosted by Matt Beaton with co-hosts Doug Dickens and Tony Hormillosa. We are friends who each grew up in a distinct version of this world, and we want to discuss what it was, where it came from, and what it turned into. We’ll be taking many side roads along the way, while listening to some of the best (and worst) music of the era.. Please subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. You can submit questions or comments for the hosts at godgaverockmail@gmail.com . Show and host information can be found on our website: https://godgaverock.buzzsprout.com…

1
Carman Had the Rizz: Interview with Comedian Jeremy Alder Part 1 (#019) 49:44

20 weeks ago49:44

49:44

Send us a text We interview the standup comedian Jeremy Alder, who draws comic inspiration from being brought up in a Fundamentalist Christian family and being homeschooled his whole life. He talks about loving Michael Jackson, then being confused when all the cool music and his TV suddenly went away. We explore the dubious science and anthropology lessons from the A-Beka homeschool curriculum, remember the great Christian musician Rich Mullins, and follow Jeremy's journey through the Tooth and Nail catalog, culminating in his forming a Christian Rock band called 9-veh. Bands/ Artists discussed: Fleetwood Mac Michael Jackson Russ Taff DeGarmo & Key Keith Green Rich Mullins Carman Stryper One Bad Pig Lust Control MxPx Stavesacre Value Pac Ghoti Hook P.O.D. S.F.C. Scaterd Few Poor Old Lu The Prayer Chain Larry Norman Joan Osborne Black Eyed Sceva/ Model Engine Gin Blossoms God Gave Rock & Roll To You is a podcast exploring the Christian rock subculture of the late 20th century, hosted by Matt Beaton with co-hosts Doug Dickens and Tony Hormillosa. We are friends who each grew up in a distinct version of this world, and we want to discuss what it was, where it came from, and what it turned into. We’ll be taking many side roads along the way, while listening to some of the best (and worst) music of the era.. Please subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. You can submit questions or comments for the hosts at godgaverockmail@gmail.com . Show and host information can be found on our website: https://godgaverock.buzzsprout.com…

1
An Epistle of Tony to the Church at Newsmax: Christianity and Politics (#018) 51:47

22 weeks ago51:47

51:47

Send us a text We diverge from our usual discussion about music to touch on the intersection of Christian faith and politics. Using Lee C Camp's recent book Scandalous Witness as a starting point, we discuss the various attempts by Christian religious movements to co-opt U.S. politics from the left and the right, and try to articulate a proper Christian response to political action in a pluralistic, secular democracy. Sounds like fun doesn't it? We think so.. Bands/ Artists discussed : Sean Feucht Danny Gokey Lost Dogs Swirling Eddies References : Podcast Episode: Faith For Normal People - Lee C Camp Book: Scandalous Witness - A Little Political Manifesto for Christians by Lee C Camp Short Film: For Our Daughters God Gave Rock & Roll To You is a podcast exploring the Christian rock subculture of the late 20th century, hosted by Matt Beaton with co-hosts Doug Dickens and Tony Hormillosa. We are friends who each grew up in a distinct version of this world, and we want to discuss what it was, where it came from, and what it turned into. We’ll be taking many side roads along the way, while listening to some of the best (and worst) music of the era.. Please subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. You can submit questions or comments for the hosts at godgaverockmail@gmail.com . Show and host information can be found on our website: https://godgaverock.buzzsprout.com…

1
Lust Control Responds! Doug Van Pelt Interview (#017) 1:22:55

24 weeks ago1:22:55

1:22:55

Send us a text We talk with Doug Van Pelt, frontman of the Christian hardcore punk band Lust Control and founder of Heaven's Metal Magazine. In Episode 6, we did a critical takedown of what we consider to be troublesome content in the Christian Rock of our youth, specifically relating to shame and guilt-inducing themes, and singled out Lust Control as one of the worst offenders. Doug Van Pelt offered to come on as a guest to discuss our criticisms and explain his background and point of view. A great conversation came out of this, and it lands in some unexpected places. Bands/ Artists discussed: Lust Control One Bad Pig Townes Van Zandt Minor Threat Violent Femmes Cyndi Lauper Amy Grant Michael Knott Henry Rollins Megadeth Type O Negative Korn Dream Theater Trans-Siberian Orchestra Video Series: Nobody Liked Paul Doug Van Pelt's Interview Series: Rock Stars on God God Gave Rock & Roll To You is a podcast exploring the Christian rock subculture of the late 20th century, hosted by Matt Beaton with co-hosts Doug Dickens and Tony Hormillosa. We are friends who each grew up in a distinct version of this world, and we want to discuss what it was, where it came from, and what it turned into. We’ll be taking many side roads along the way, while listening to some of the best (and worst) music of the era.. Please subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. You can submit questions or comments for the hosts at godgaverockmail@gmail.com . Show and host information can be found on our website: https://godgaverock.buzzsprout.com…

1
Charismatic Interpretation of Tongues is the Brian Eno of Prayer: Brett Tohlen Interview (#016) 1:31:43

26 weeks ago1:31:43

1:31:43

Send us a text We have a great and wide ranging conversation with Brett Tohlen, Matt's songwriting partner from their band Lewis. Brett talks about growing up listening to the local Christian radio station, then discovering U2 and James. Matt and Brett discuss their years spent writing songs together, and Brett describes some of the themes behind the lyrics of their album "Even So". Doug outsmarts a Brooklyn hipster in 2004. Tony recounts how "speaking in tongues" was translated in his Pentecostal church. Bands/ Artists discussed: Sandi Patty Michael W Smith Petra U2 Pixies Public Enemy Pop Poppins Tripping Daisy Trash Can Sinatras Ned's Atomic Dustbin The Cure R.E.M. James Tim Booth & the Bad Angel The 77's MJ Lenderman Wednesday Midlake Lewis Pleasant Grove Lift To Experience Bedhead Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds Stephen Malkmus Catherine Wheel The Ocean Blue Sunny Day Real Estate The Smiths God Gave Rock & Roll To You is a podcast exploring the Christian rock subculture of the late 20th century, hosted by Matt Beaton with co-hosts Doug Dickens and Tony Hormillosa. We are friends who each grew up in a distinct version of this world, and we want to discuss what it was, where it came from, and what it turned into. We’ll be taking many side roads along the way, while listening to some of the best (and worst) music of the era.. Please subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. You can submit questions or comments for the hosts at godgaverockmail@gmail.com . Show and host information can be found on our website: https://godgaverock.buzzsprout.com…

1
If Taylor Swift Killed You, Would You Go To Heaven? Beau Jennings Interview (#015) 1:35:29

28 weeks ago1:35:29

1:35:29

Send us a text We talk to the Oklahoma musician and filmmaker Beau Jennings of the bands Lasso, Cheyenne, and Beau Jennings & The Tigers. Beau talks about Christian ska, youth group rallies about "taking our country back", and religion and faith as a backdrop to music writing. Tony & Beau talk about Okie Noodling, Will Rogers and all things Oklahoma. We create a string-map connecting Sufjan Stevens, Fleet Foxes, The National, and even Taylor Swift back to the Christian music festival called Cornerstone. Doug tries to convince Beau to listen to Voivod. Beau's new album is called "American Stories Major Chords" and comes out on October 18th. Bands/ Artists discussed: Ester Drang Lasso Cheyenne Beau Jennings & The Tigers Lassie Foundation The Prayer Chain Michael Knott/ L.S.U. Geoff Moore & The Distance Johnny Cash Elvis Presley REZ Band O.C. Supertones Stavesacre Scientific Fleet Foxes Father John Misty The National Taylor Swift Unwed Sailor Pedro the Lion Damien Jurado Sufjan Stevens Denison Witmer Reels of White Softly Flow Flaming Lips Turnpike Troubadours Wilco Son Volt Night Reports Derrick C Brown Pleasant Grove Lewis Yours For Now John Wilkes Kissing Booth Broncho Waylon Jennings Sparklehorse Aerosmith Voivod Spacehog God Gave Rock & Roll To You is a podcast exploring the Christian rock subculture of the late 20th century, hosted by Matt Beaton with co-hosts Doug Dickens and Tony Hormillosa. We are friends who each grew up in a distinct version of this world, and we want to discuss what it was, where it came from, and what it turned into. We’ll be taking many side roads along the way, while listening to some of the best (and worst) music of the era.. Please subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. You can submit questions or comments for the hosts at godgaverockmail@gmail.com . Show and host information can be found on our website: https://godgaverock.buzzsprout.com…

1
Sorta Christian: Danny Balis Interview (#014) 1:08:30

30 weeks ago1:08:30

1:08:30

Send us a text We interview the Texas musician and radio personality Danny Balis, from the bands Sorta, King Bucks, Bastards of Soul and Silver Skylarks, and from his long tenure on Dallas' talk radio show The Ticket. We talk about his journey through Christian Rock as a youth under the tutelage of Brother Bruce, throwing his secular records away, returning to Satan by buying an Iron Maiden record, and getting bamboozled by his Denton bandmates who got saved and tried to turn their band Sahara Rain into a Christian act. Bands/ Artists discussed: Journey Foreigner Foghat AC/DC David Meece Sandi Patti REZ Band Petra Styper One Bad Pig Voivod Whitecross RATT Iron Maiden Sahara Rain King's X Sorta Bastards of Soul Silver Skylarks God Gave Rock & Roll To You is a podcast exploring the Christian rock subculture of the late 20th century, hosted by Matt Beaton with co-hosts Doug Dickens and Tony Hormillosa. We are friends who each grew up in a distinct version of this world, and we want to discuss what it was, where it came from, and what it turned into. We’ll be taking many side roads along the way, while listening to some of the best (and worst) music of the era.. Please subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. You can submit questions or comments for the hosts at godgaverockmail@gmail.com . Show and host information can be found on our website: https://godgaverock.buzzsprout.com…

1
Write Drunk, Edit Sober: Daniel Hopkins Interview Part 2 (#013) 1:06:45

32 weeks ago1:06:45

1:06:45

Send us a text We continue our conversation with musician Daniel Hopkins of the band Radiant, also known as Denim Wonder. Daniel recounts how Radiant got to play in Times Square on New Years Eve for the Jimmy Kimmel Show. We discuss the current state of Christian music. We talk about what is was like to be a Christian on tour, including encountering softball-sized mounds of cocaine. Tony wants to know what Daniel thinks about double bass drumming. Daniel expounds upon his middle school love of gangster rap. Intro comedy bit: Jeremy Alder Bands/ Artists discussed: Radiant Denim Wonder James Danny Gokie The Afters Brandon Lake Shane & Shane Chris Tomlin Pleasant Grove Lewis Yours For Now Garage Sale Poets Songs: Ohia Yo La Tengo The Prayer Chain Sigur Ros Explosions In The Sky At The Close Of Every Day The World Is A Beautiful Place & I'm No Longer Afraid To Die Snoop Dogg & Dr. Dre Scaterd Few Violet Burning God Gave Rock & Roll To You is a podcast exploring the Christian rock subculture of the late 20th century, hosted by Matt Beaton with co-hosts Doug Dickens and Tony Hormillosa. We are friends who each grew up in a distinct version of this world, and we want to discuss what it was, where it came from, and what it turned into. We’ll be taking many side roads along the way, while listening to some of the best (and worst) music of the era.. Please subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. You can submit questions or comments for the hosts at godgaverockmail@gmail.com . Show and host information can be found on our website: https://godgaverock.buzzsprout.com…

1
Chik-Fil-A is the Christian Rock of Fast Food: Daniel Hopkins Interview Part 1 (#012) 1:05:27

33 weeks ago1:05:27

1:05:27

Send us a text We have our first guest!! We talk with the musician Daniel Hopkins of the band Radiant, also known as Denim Wonder. He talks about growing up with Christian music, sneaking secular CD's into the house, loving Creed and The Dave Matthews Band, listening to great music in spite of the lyrics, and songwriting. We discuss the "dangerous songs" of our youth. Matt keeps talking about Counting Crows. Daniel talks about working at Chik-Fil-A, which is the Christian Rock of fast food restaurants. Bands/ artists discussed: Radiant Denim Wonder Eric Clapton The Beach Boys R.E.M. P.I.D. (Preachers In Disguise) D-Boy Rodriguez Nirvana Newsboys Starflyer 59 The Prayer Chain Plankeye Luxury Hum Roger McDuff Ride Sugar Ray James Atahualpa Yupanqui Creed Alanis Morrissette Counting Crows Cyndi Lauper The Flaming Lips Smashing Pumpkins Hi Fi Drowning Blur Oasis The Catherine Wheel Radiohead Jawbreaker Jets to Brazil Jawbox Fugazi Built to Spill Grandaddy Ester Drang Hall & Oates Tears For Fears Phil Collins God Gave Rock & Roll To You is a podcast exploring the Christian rock subculture of the late 20th century, hosted by Matt Beaton with co-hosts Doug Dickens and Tony Hormillosa. We are friends who each grew up in a distinct version of this world, and we want to discuss what it was, where it came from, and what it turned into. We’ll be taking many side roads along the way, while listening to some of the best (and worst) music of the era.. Please subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. You can submit questions or comments for the hosts at godgaverockmail@gmail.com . Show and host information can be found on our website: https://godgaverock.buzzsprout.com…

1
The Throes - All The Flowers Growing In Your Mother's Eyes (#011) 1:02:38

37 weeks ago1:02:38

1:02:38

Send us a text We discuss the video of the Mike Knott tribute concert that just dropped on YouTube. Matt listens to Starflyer 59 for the first time ever. We take a survey of secular songs that were co-opted by Christians for their own purposes. Matt describes his teenage initiation into the Cult of R.E.M. We take a deep dive into the seminal Christian alt-rock album "All The Flowers Growing In Your Mother's Eyes" by The Throes. A heated argument ensues about whether or not Neutral Milk Hotel was from Athens. Bands/ Artists discussed: Mike Roe/ the 77's Mike Stand/ the Altar Boys Mortal Mike Knott Riki Michele The Prayer Chain The Lassie Foundation Starflyer 59 The Smashing Pumpkins My Bloody Valentine Jesus & Mary Chain Hum The Byrds America/ Dan Peek The Beatles Styx England Dan & John Ford Coley R.E.M. Fugazi The Throes Neutral Milk Hotel Video: Mike Knott's Tribute Concert Book: Love Is A Mix Tape God Gave Rock & Roll To You is a podcast exploring the Christian rock subculture of the late 20th century, hosted by Matt Beaton with co-hosts Doug Dickens and Tony Hormillosa. We are friends who each grew up in a distinct version of this world, and we want to discuss what it was, where it came from, and what it turned into. We’ll be taking many side roads along the way, while listening to some of the best (and worst) music of the era.. Please subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. You can submit questions or comments for the hosts at godgaverockmail@gmail.com . Show and host information can be found on our website: https://godgaverock.buzzsprout.com…

1
Lord Have Mercy On Me: Christian Themes in Secular Music (#010) 1:12:53

39 weeks ago1:12:53

1:12:53

Send us a text In this episode, we explore the spiritual roots of popular music and listen to examples of Christian themes that have shown up outside of the Christian Rock cloister throughout the decades, from Black Gospel quartets, through Elvis, Johnny Cash, and into the modern rock of the 1990's and 2000's. Plus, another edition of "We Were Wrong", Tony's idea for a rock band comprised of middle aged Dads that used to be cool, the final word on whether humans are good or evil, and a discussion about the Robert Morris scandal at Gateway Church. Intro preaching is Pastor Clay Evans from Chicago, IL. Bands/ Artists discussed: Lauren Daigle Soul Stirrers Sam Cooke The Statesmen Quartet Elvis Presley Dion Johnny Cash Kris Kristoffersen Hank Williams One Bad Pig Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds Pleasant Grove Silver Jews Purple Mountains Belle and Sebastian Sufjan Stevens U2 Book: Human Kind: A Hopeful History by Rutger Bregman Book: Faith, Hope and Carnage by Nick Cave and Sean O'Hagan Artist: Rachel Whiteread Movie: Reality Bites (1994) God Gave Rock & Roll To You is a podcast exploring the Christian rock subculture of the late 20th century, hosted by Matt Beaton with co-hosts Doug Dickens and Tony Hormillosa. We are friends who each grew up in a distinct version of this world, and we want to discuss what it was, where it came from, and what it turned into. We’ll be taking many side roads along the way, while listening to some of the best (and worst) music of the era.. Please subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. You can submit questions or comments for the hosts at godgaverockmail@gmail.com . Show and host information can be found on our website: https://godgaverock.buzzsprout.com…

God Gave Rock & Roll To You

1
Bowl of Wrath: Questioning the Theology of Christian Rock (#009) 1:10:10

41 weeks ago1:10:10

1:10:10

Send us a text We revisit some of our favorite Christian rock songs from our youth and discuss the lyrics and theological messages that were being communicated through the music. Also, did Dante create our modern conception of Hell? Why do we talk about Adam Again so much? How was one of the most uplifting hymns of all time written by a man who lost everything? Does God hate us? Bands/ Music discussed: Lauren Daigle Gungor Adam Again Lewis Leonard Cohen The Innocence Mission Cowboy Junkies Over the Rhine Red House Painters Sun Kil Moon Shane and Shane One Bad Pig Lust Control The Dead Milkmen The Crucified Petra Scaterd Few God Gave Rock & Roll To You is a podcast exploring the Christian rock subculture of the late 20th century, hosted by Matt Beaton with co-hosts Doug Dickens and Tony Hormillosa. We are friends who each grew up in a distinct version of this world, and we want to discuss what it was, where it came from, and what it turned into. We’ll be taking many side roads along the way, while listening to some of the best (and worst) music of the era.. Please subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. You can submit questions or comments for the hosts at godgaverockmail@gmail.com . Show and host information can be found on our website: https://godgaverock.buzzsprout.com…

God Gave Rock & Roll To You

1
Satanic Panic! The Evils of Backward Masking (#008) 1:04:44

44 weeks ago1:04:44

1:04:44

Send us a text SPOOKY ALERT: We delve into the Devil-obsessed 80's, when demonic messages were deciphered by playing rock music backwards. We listen to some of the most notorious tracks and test for ourselves whether nefarious incantations were being subliminally infiltrated into the minds of the youth. Also, was skate culture Satanic? Did Led Zeppelin record Stairway to Heaven in Aleister Crowley's house? Do demons live in vinyl or cassettes? Bands discussed: Def Leppard The Beatles Led Zeppelin Slayer Queen Petra Gene Eugene King Crimson The Imperials God Gave Rock & Roll To You is a podcast exploring the Christian rock subculture of the late 20th century, hosted by Matt Beaton with co-hosts Doug Dickens and Tony Hormillosa. We are friends who each grew up in a distinct version of this world, and we want to discuss what it was, where it came from, and what it turned into. We’ll be taking many side roads along the way, while listening to some of the best (and worst) music of the era.. Please subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. You can submit questions or comments for the hosts at godgaverockmail@gmail.com . Show and host information can be found on our website: https://godgaverock.buzzsprout.com…

God Gave Rock & Roll To You

1
Oh My Sweet Rapture! Christian Rock at the End of the World (#007) 1:03:36

46 weeks ago1:03:36

1:03:36

Send us a text The Apocalypse is here in this week's episode! We discuss how Premillennial Dispensationalism informed the American Evangelical culture in the 70's and 80's, and how the End of Days affected the Christian music of the time. Also: what do you do when the Rapture doesn't happen in the middle of 7th grade Bible class? Is not sinning more important than loving your neighbor? What's with all the white Christian rappers? Bands discussed: Terence Trent Darby The New Year Benny Hester Iris DeMent Daniel Amos Rap'sures SLC Michael W Smith Steve Taylor Jimmy Swaggart Elvis DC Talk Newsboys We also reference the following: Book: American Apocalypse by Matthew Avery Sutton. Book: The Late Great Planet Earth by Hal Lindsay Book: The Scofield Reference Bible Book: The Leftovers by Tom Perrotta, also an HBO TV show adaptation TV Show: The Righteous Gemstones God Gave Rock & Roll To You is a podcast exploring the Christian rock subculture of the late 20th century, hosted by Matt Beaton with co-hosts Doug Dickens and Tony Hormillosa. We are friends who each grew up in a distinct version of this world, and we want to discuss what it was, where it came from, and what it turned into. We’ll be taking many side roads along the way, while listening to some of the best (and worst) music of the era.. Please subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. You can submit questions or comments for the hosts at godgaverockmail@gmail.com . Show and host information can be found on our website: https://godgaverock.buzzsprout.com…

God Gave Rock & Roll To You

1
Lust Control! Guilt, Sin and Shame in Christian Rock (#006) 1:06:43

48 weeks ago1:06:43

1:06:43

Send us a text In this episode, we explore how ideas about Christian guilt and shame found their way into Christian rock. Also, have you ever seen 60,000 grown men weeping like babies? What is "The Big M"? What's so bad about music with a message? Is Ringo Starr still alive? Bands discussed: Altar Boys Keith Green Lust Control One Bad Pig The 77's Mike Knott Steve Taylor The Beatles Prayer Chain Bright Eyes Neil Young Jon Guerra 77's - The Lust The Flesh The Eyes And The Pride Of Life - full song Jon Guerra - Citizens - full song Wikipedia primer on The Holiness Movement God Gave Rock & Roll To You is a podcast exploring the Christian rock subculture of the late 20th century, hosted by Matt Beaton with co-hosts Doug Dickens and Tony Hormillosa. We are friends who each grew up in a distinct version of this world, and we want to discuss what it was, where it came from, and what it turned into. We’ll be taking many side roads along the way, while listening to some of the best (and worst) music of the era.. Please subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. You can submit questions or comments for the hosts at godgaverockmail@gmail.com . Show and host information can be found on our website: https://godgaverock.buzzsprout.com…

God Gave Rock & Roll To You

1
We Get A Big Warm Sweet Interior Glowing: The Music of Terry Scott Taylor (#005) 1:07:37

50 weeks ago1:07:37

1:07:37

Send us a text In this episode, we dive into the catalog of Christian alt-rock artist Terry Scott Taylor, who began his career fronting the band Daniel Amos, and went on to make albums with the Swirling Eddies and Lost Dogs, as well as recording many solo albums. We courageously face eternal conundrums such as, was Amy Grant into the occult? What are the Seven Mountains of cultural dominance, and how can we use them to boss our families around? Was St Paul half Italian? We start by discussing Daniel Amos' first album Shotgun Angel, which came out way back in 1975. Bands discussed: Daniel Amos Terry Scott Taylor Swirling Eddies Dr. Edward Daniel Taylor Lost Dogs Amy Grant Stryper Wire Crucified L. S. Underground Pedro the Lion David Bazan Nick Cave Show notes: We reference this website: www.av1611.org . This is not an endorsement of the content of the site, but it's worth visiting to see firsthand the logic of what we were dealing with in those days. We also reference the book American Apocalypse , by Matthew Avery Sutton. God Gave Rock & Roll To You is a podcast exploring the Christian rock subculture of the late 20th century, hosted by Matt Beaton with co-hosts Doug Dickens and Tony Hormillosa. We are friends who each grew up in a distinct version of this world, and we want to discuss what it was, where it came from, and what it turned into. We’ll be taking many side roads along the way, while listening to some of the best (and worst) music of the era.. Please subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. You can submit questions or comments for the hosts at godgaverockmail@gmail.com . Show and host information can be found on our website: https://godgaverock.buzzsprout.com…

God Gave Rock & Roll To You

1
Church Chad Would Not Approve: Crossing Over into the Secular World (#004) 1:05:01

52 weeks ago1:05:01

1:05:01

Send us a text In this episode, we dig into the concept of “crossing over”, when Christian artists would try to break into the mainstream music world. We dig into crucial topics like, were all of the founders of CCM on drugs? Is David Bazan too preachy? Can God be embarrassed? We open this episode with an exhortation from our brother Church Chad, who just wants to keep his brother in line. Bands discussed: Leslie Phillips/ Sam Phillips Amy Grant Grant Lee Buffalo Peter Cetera Daniel Amos Swirling Eddies Dr Edward Daniel Taylor Toad the Wet Sprocket Counting Crows Michael Knott Scaterd Few David Bazan/ Pedro the Lion Church Chad on Instagram: @itschurchchad God Gave Rock & Roll To You is a podcast exploring the Christian rock subculture of the late 20th century, hosted by Matt Beaton with co-hosts Doug Dickens and Tony Hormillosa. We are friends who each grew up in a distinct version of this world, and we want to discuss what it was, where it came from, and what it turned into. We’ll be taking many side roads along the way, while listening to some of the best (and worst) music of the era.. Please subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. You can submit questions or comments for the hosts at godgaverockmail@gmail.com . Show and host information can be found on our website: https://godgaverock.buzzsprout.com…

God Gave Rock & Roll To You

1
I Don't Wanna Get Kicked Out: RIP Michael Knott (#003) 47:13

1 year ago47:13

47:13

Send us a text Michael Knott passed away on March 12, 2024. He was a highly prolific musician and label owner who fronted many bands, including Lifesavers, Life Savers Underground, L.S. Underground, L.S.U., Cush, Bombay Babies, and more. He also released many solo albums under his own name. For the three of us, he is important as the main force behind Blonde Vinyl Records. For a couple of glorious years in the early 90's, he somehow bypassed the Christian music industry's gatekeepers and convinced Christian bookstores to stock his label's releases. These included bands with original music styles, and lyrics which were pointedly human, dark, and complicated, but still grounded in faith. For us, he represented the beginning of the breakdown of the wall between Christian and secular music, and opened new roads for artists expressing their faith through art outside of the tightly controlled Christian music industry. We'll miss you Mike... Bands Discussed: Michael Knott L.S.U. Livesavers L.S. Underground Life Savers Underground Windy Lyre Fluffy Breakfast With Amy Poor Old Lu Sincerely Paul Dance House Children Devics Show Notes: NPR: Michael Knott obituary Frontline Records' interview w/ Michael Knott from 2013 The Rumors Are True Podcast - Interview w/ Chris Colbert The Jesus Revolution Movie Echo In The Canyon Movie God Gave Rock & Roll To You is a podcast exploring the Christian rock subculture of the late 20th century, hosted by Matt Beaton with co-hosts Doug Dickens and Tony Hormillosa. We are friends who each grew up in a distinct version of this world, and we want to discuss what it was, where it came from, and what it turned into. We’ll be taking many side roads along the way, while listening to some of the best (and worst) music of the era.. Please subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. You can submit questions or comments for the hosts at godgaverockmail@gmail.com . Show and host information can be found on our website: https://godgaverock.buzzsprout.com…

God Gave Rock & Roll To You

1
If You Can Go Without Sinning For Just One Minute, Then You Can Go Two (#002) 1:13:26

1 year ago1:13:26

1:13:26

Send us a text In this episode, we dive into each of our backgrounds and how we were introduced to the Christian alt rock world. We wrestle with hard-hitting questions like, how do you know which album to buy based on the cover art alone? If you can go just one minute without sin, can you go two? What was the best Christian album of the era and why was it Adam Again's Homeboys? Bands discussed: Eddie Murphy (really) Tears For Fears Petra The Police U2 Larry Norman Anthrax Guns & Roses Dangerous Toys Junkyard Pixies Steve Taylor One Bad Pig Crucified Breakfast With Amy The Throes Adam Again Daniel Amos The Choir God Gave Rock & Roll To You is a podcast exploring the Christian rock subculture of the late 20th century, hosted by Matt Beaton with co-hosts Doug Dickens and Tony Hormillosa. We are friends who each grew up in a distinct version of this world, and we want to discuss what it was, where it came from, and what it turned into. We’ll be taking many side roads along the way, while listening to some of the best (and worst) music of the era.. Please subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. You can submit questions or comments for the hosts at godgaverockmail@gmail.com . Show and host information can be found on our website: https://godgaverock.buzzsprout.com…

God Gave Rock & Roll To You

1
The Choir is the Sex Pistols of Christian Rock (#001) 1:05:52

1 year ago1:05:52