From Grassroots To Corporate Takeover…

I remember an earlier era of CHH. A lot of these "fans" and artists haven't been here long enough to recall those times.

It was a grassroots movement. There were some acts with National exposure but the majority of artists were independent or signed to small labels. There was a sense of excitement and wonder in those days, driven by sincere faith and a boldness that didn't concern itself with affirmation from the world.

Acts like Cross Movement, T-Bone, Dert, Tunnel Rats, New Breed, 4th Avenue Jones, Deepspace5, L.A. Symphony, Braille, Shai Linne, Timothy Brindle, Da TRUTH, Richie Righteous, Scribbling Idiots, and MANY MANY more were carving a space out for emcees to come later. Many of these emcees were rooted in very doctrinally sound theology informing their lyrics, driving a focus on ministerial objectives.

They were DOPE though! They often don't get the credit they deserve, victims of the lack of historical knowledge about CHH plaguing many who are newer to the genre.

Many of the benefactors of their work would later emerge with little to no knowledge of the pioneers who paved a path for them to tread. A microcosm of society at large, the new era of CHH artists, promoters, and publications yielded many people who were younger in their faith, less versed in solid theology, and more prone to superficial pursuits. Sure, everyone at least sprinkles Jesus in here and there, but things just seem different now.

Somewhere along the line, as CHH expanded & became more accepted by the mainstream we drifted away from that era. A lot of CHH started taking itself too seriously... Some publications and artists take themselves WAY too seriously!!

The artists at the "pinnacle" of the genre sometimes seem more focused on style, engagement, streaming numbers, vanity, and all too often lending their commentary to who does and doesn't deserve to be in the space.

Publications aren't always much better. There was a time when they were much more accessible to artists without a National following or a massive budget. At one time a lot of these sites and publications were more receptive to experimental and raw art with a vigorous focus on spreading the Gospel, as opposed to upholding industry standards crafted by a cartel of unbelievers whose goal is purely profit driven.

Alas, change is one of the few constants in life. Still... Some of us are still here and prepared to continue to carry the banner for ideals we believe should not have been lost. Namely, a Gospel driven culture of pure and sincere art made by believers who are secure enough in their role in the Kingdom to resist the urge to push for ruthless exclusivity based solely on material merit. A culture where those more talented or experienced are eager to encourage and help those coming up. A culture that recognizes that in the Body Of Christ when ANY of us WIN, WE ALL WIN!

CHH Jamz Collective embraces true artistic pursuit, which isn't bound by white-washed sanitized formulas or a desire for fame and affirmation. We recognize the gift of music, the subjectivity of it, and the value of a vast array of creative approaches. We see it both as something we can enjoy on an individual basis but also as something that can bring people together in fellowship and community to celebrate the glory of God.

It's in that, where music can make the greatest impact... something which transcends this life and has tangible implications in eternity. A culture that welcomes the misfits and the underground warriors for Christ.

This is the CHH Jamz Collective where our priorities, in order of importance, are God, Ministry, Music. This is CHH Jamz Collective... Where BARZ Come From The WORD!