Senior Columnist

Throughout my two years on staff at The Runner, I’ve covered many stories on music. Mostly, I’ve covered country music, reviewing albums and concerts, and on occasion, I would talk to artists.

With this column, I’ve tried to branch out of my usual area of expertise. Being an entertainment writer, I wanted to try diving into some of the realms of TV and film that I hadn’t had a chance to explore before. Seeing as this is my last column, I wanted to go back to my roots, only this time with a twist.

As fun as those have been, it hasn’t always left my heart quite as satisfied. There should be more meaning than just words on a page or fluff that brings a

As a Christ follower, I love when other artists, not even necessarily in the Christian genre proudly proclaim all that God has done in their lives and sing His praises in a song. I love that they aren’t afraid to take a stand and do something a little different from the rest of the crowd.

That might be the main reason that country music has always touched my heart the most. Artists like Carrie Underwood aren’t afraid to go out on a limb or to claim what they believe. Underwood’s first single, “Jesus Take the Wheel,” really set the tone for the kind of music she was going to make. From there, she also went on to have hits such as “Temporary Home,” “See You Again” and “Something in the Water.” While not every song directly deals with her faith, overall, Underwood makes music with a theme of hope, such as “Good in Goodbye.”

Then, you look at Brad Paisley with songs like, “When I Get Where I’m Going,” which talks about when he makes it to Heaven and will get to see the Maker’s face, as well as being reunited with his loved ones. Josh Turner is another country artist who proudly displays his relationship with God in songs like “Long Black Train” and “Me and God.”

According to the website, The Boot, “religion and country music are so intertwined that the Inspirational Country Music Awards are held each year.” There’s no reason to separate the genres, because their faith is so much apart of their everyday life.

These are the kinds of people that don’t have to get up on a soapbox and preach what they want to convey. For some, that works, but I like when artists can be honest about how they live in the small moments, through the power of a song. They’re honest and real, and don’t beat around the bush.