God’s Property featuring Kirk Franklin and Cheryl “Salt” James: Stomp
I don’t fancy myself a religious person, but whatever inspires me, then so shall it be. That being written, I’m not a Christian (though my friend, Joy, says I’m in denial), but there are some gospel songs without which I can’t function, and “Stomp” is on of ’em.
With infusions of the forever funky George Clinton’s “One Nation Under a Groove” and hip hip, along with secular dances performed by God’s Property members –who ditch the class-conscious suits and heels, in favor of comfortable clothing and other adornments that suit them and speak to the reality of who they are (or may be) and who their audience is (or may be)– the song managed to reach folks who felt unseen in the then-common and conventional Christian realm.
Unfortunately, by more conservative Christians, the song was received as a tool of sacrilege. These folk refused to accept that the same creator being praised is the same creator who created all the twisting legs and bank-head bouncin’ torsos, as well as the cotton that made the baggy pants that appear in the video. It’s also the same creator about whom these folks teach when they reference David dancing, in praise. I’m just sayin’.
Overall, folks have a hard time rollin’ with the new, but we’ll discuss that another time. Some of the same folks ready to faint at the thought of infusing all that funk and hippity hop with gospel get in some serious praise, and are quick defend their actions when confronted by extremely low-energy worshipers who point out the pomposity of what these folks are doin’.
If you’ve never heard it, listen to it. I dare you to listen to “Stomp”, and not –at least– clap your hands. You can’t. Well, I can’t. What do you think?
Love this one. You make some really good points and I love that I am mentioned in the caption. I love Kirk Franklin, a little hip hop Jesus aint hurting nobody.
In my God’s Property voice: “Mm. Mm. Hm.”
I’m glad you like the mention!