Interviews,  Music

Derek Webb, Controversy, and the Stockholm Syndrome

Stockholm Syndrome by Derek WebbDerek Webb is at it again. He has stirred up a bit of controversy with his latest album Stockholm Syndrome which releases on August 31st. Webb and his label, INO Records, had a struggle of sorts over the provocative nature of one song in particular, What Matters Most. This disagreement brought into question whether or not the album would release, what songs would be included, and whether Webb would continue to be employed by INO. It’s a fascinating story. In the end, What Matters Most was left off the album (there is a bit of irony to be had here) but will be available on other versions and through Webb’s site. Christianity Today has an interview with him that fleshes out some of the details of this situation.

Personally, I have enjoyed Derek’s music in its many manifestations. I think he is a thoughtful, hardworking musician who embodies the best of that profession. That doesn’t mean I agree with every stance he takes or how he presents it. It also doesn’t mean I disagree either. But I will say that I really appreciate Derek’s dedication to his craft and his willingness to address difficult issues through his music. And I think sometimes people focus on the little provocative moments in his music while missing the greater points.

3 Comments

  • Jordan

    I love Derek Webb’s music. The emotion and thought that is clearly in Caedmon’s Call songs and his own solo work is so powerful. I think the “controversy” surrounding What Matters Most is very interesting, because the song is about defining what matters most, instead of focusing on rhetoric. I think it is a good song and the lyric at issue is the central meaning of the song. While profanity is defined as being outside the church, not holy, all Derek does in that song is invoke the idea that often we concern ourselves with little things that may have little importance to the service we are commissioned to undertake (i.e. ‘Cause we can talk and debate until we’re blue in the face / About the language and tradition that he’s comin’ to save). What benefit does that have? I totally agree with you Lash, except I might say that oftentimes people focus on the little provocative moments in his music while missing the greater points.

  • Greg Rutledge

    Controversial song available for download at Soul-Audio.com. Just a word of caution for those who may not be familiar with the hub-bub, this song contains two curse words.

    I think with this song he has accomplished his goal of raising awareness for an issue within the Christian community. I can’t fully endorse his methods, but I wont condemn him for doing it.

    If you’re willing to hear it download the track at.
    http://www.soul-audio.com/audio/09-02-2009/derek-webb-what-matters-more/

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