Today, gospel hip-hop group The Brothers N Christ share the release of its music video “All In His Name,” featuring Athens hip-hop legend and Music-Walk-of-Famer Duddy Ken. The Brothers N Christ, made up of IAmGodsChild and King David, formed three years ago with two projects currently out—although each has deep music roots in the community, both in gospel and hip hop respectively.
Steeped in religious references in name and imagery, gospel plays a dominant role in the group’s sound and message. The music video opens with a procession of people in religious clothing followed by scenes that take place both inside and outside of a local church. The Brothers N Christ are both connected to the church used, The Light Ministries in the Rocksprings community.
“I wanna send a BIG shout out to Julia Craft and the Craft family for always opening the door for us to do what it is we do,” says Michael Stovall, who performs under the moniker King David. “What I feel is important about the message of this song is simple: No matter how you choose to praise God is how you choose to do so. Cause at the end, like the title of the song says, it’s ‘all in His name.’ In regards to the hip-hop scene, it’s hip hop but on a holy level.”
Stovall also highlights Duddy Ken’s role in assisting with the project as a whole and providing the beat for “All In His Name.” As one of Athens’ hip-hop trailblazers and a name that can’t be skipped when discussing local hip-hop history, the group expresses gratitude for everything Duddy Ken has personally done for them.
Today also marks the official 50th anniversary of hip hop, although celebrations have been taking place all year including Athens Mayor Kelly Girtz declaring May 18 to be Athens Hip Hop Appreciation Day. As a genre, hip hop has afforded many people an outlet to creatively express themselves. However, hip hop is more than a music genre; it’s a culture and way of life.
“Hip hop will always have a special place in our hearts. So with that being said, it has truly been amazing being apart of the culture, and I wouldn’t change a thing. So thank you hip hop for 50 years of pure joy and satisfaction. Cheers to 50 more,” says Stovall.
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