When entering the music industry many would assume that your first impression is your last impression or that all news is good news regardless of your personal morals and values. Many thriving careers have taken dramatic hits both internally and externally when faced with constant surveillance from paparazzi's and even fans. Although this matrix of fame seems inevitable, some artists have managed to own their story and ensure that their public image is able to express who they really are on the inside.
1. Gene "No Malice" Thornton
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The Clipse is an American Hip Hop duo formed by two brothers Gene and Terrence Thornton in 1992. It wasn't until years later when Gene Thornton demanded more from the industry and stood up to the media when he announced he would be changing his name. It is not often that you hear about the beliefs of musical talents unless they are giving an award acceptance speech, but Mr. Thornton set out to change the volume. In March of 2012 Mr. Thornton announced that he would be changing his name from "Malice" to "No Malice." When asked what promoted this change, he responded that he would no longer remain silent about his religious beliefs. This showed a great step for many who are believers because he answered the call of practicing what you preach.
2. Michelle Williams
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Michelle Williams is an American singer and actress who joined one of the best selling female groups Destiny's Child in 2000. In 2006, an obstacle was placed in her path when news broke that the group was disbanded. Though it would take some time, Ms. Williams did not let this stop her from doing what she loves. While her rise to fame is often perceived to some as a secular artist, the truth is her roots in music began with her singing in her church choir and local gospel groups. In her fourth studio album, "Journey to Freedom" released in 2014, she reached notoriety with her hit single "Say Yes." Ms. Williams is living proof that sometimes going back to your roots can get you to your divine destiny.
3. Kanye West
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Make no mistake, at the sheer mention of the name Kanye West, you can definitely get a room full of people talking. However, it is time now to look at his career in it's totality, instead of highlighting the highs and lows that he has proven to have never been ashamed of. In 2009 Mr. West released his album "College Dropout" which included one of many hit singles "Jesus Walks." His fearless lyrics in this song were already shedding light on some hidden truths to make it in the industry. Specifically he stated:
"I'm just tryna say the way school need teachers
The way Kathie Lee needed Regis, that's the way I need Jesus
So here go my single dog, radio needs this
They say you can rap about anything except for Jesus
That means guns, sex, lies, videotape
But if I talk about God my record won't get played, huh?
Well if this take away from my spins
Which'll probably take away from my ends
Then I hope it take away from my sins
And bring the day that I'm dreamin' about
Next time I'm in the club, everybody screamin' out
JESUS WALKS"
Now if we fast forward to 2020, and ask ourselves where is Kanye West now? In 2019 Mr. West released his album "Jesus is King" and went on to earn nine nominations in the gospel categories of The 2020 Billboard Awards. Kanye West secured the bag by winning the Top Gospel Album nomination.
