Hip hop artist and author, Sho Baraka, joins Nate to talk about refreshing our theology of work, strengthening the relationship between creatives and the Church, and adding variety to the genres and voices we turn to for spiritual nurture.
Show Notes
[2:08] Could you tell us a little about your book (its creation)?
[6:47] Could you say a little about help for creatives and what you hope to see?
[8:33] One of the things I noticed throughout your book is a concern with the devaluing of the oral tradition and folk stories in Christianity. Could you say a little about that?
[11:20] I’m wondering if there’s a connection [between devaluing oral stories] and losing some of the creativity in Christian life, church life.
[14:55] Your work in hip hop, is that carrying on the oral tradition?
[21:03] Have you been to the African American Smithsonian?
[21:54] There is such a robust history and wisdom in the historical Black church that I feel is often lost on White America. Are there pieces of that tradition that you wish people knew or that you think would be helpful?
[25:11] Could you unpack the term “evangelical edit?”
[26:25] In your book you talk about a conversation you had with your daughter when she was seven, where she came and talked to you about her skin color and hair. Can you tell that story?
[29:51] What do you hope people will take from your book?
Resources
He Saw That It Was Good, by Sho Baraka
Album: “The Narrative,” Sho Baraka, 2016
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Sho Baraka
Sho Baraka is a globally recognized recording artist, performer, culture curator, activist, and writer. His work combines his artistic platform with his academic history to contribute a unique perspective, elevating the contemporary conversation on faith, art, and culture. An alumnus of Tuskegee University and the University of North Texas, Baraka is a cofounder of Forth District and the AND Campaign, and he has served as an adjunct professor at Wake Forest School of Divinity. He was also an original member of influential hip-hop consortium 116 Clique, recording with Reach Records. Baraka lives in Atlanta with his wife Patreece and their three children.
Nathan Foster
Nathan Foster is an author and host of Life With God, a Renovaré Podcast. Formerly, he was an Associate Professor of social work and served as the Andrews Chair in Spiritual Formation at Spring Arbor University. He was also a licensed clinical social worker and certified addictions counselor. Nathan has published two books, including The Making of an Ordinary Saint: My Journey from Frustration to Joy with the Spiritual Disciplines.