When Andy Mineo was in town for a show at Wooly's in the East Village this October, we got a chance to ask him a few questions about his new album and life as a Christian in rap culture.
Q: How is "Uncomfortable" different than your previous album releases?
Andy: This time around I was really interested in getting away from the anthemic high energy records. Even though that's what I've been known for, that sound is tired and overdone. I wanted to push myself creatively to try some new sounds and song structures. I feel like I'm still trying to find my distinguishing sound. "Uncomfortable" was a journey toward that.
Q: How did God ask you to get uncomfortable while in the process of making this album?
Andy: I think God is regularly asking us to be willing to surrender our comforts. "Love your neighbor as you love yourself." "Do good to those who curse you, love your enemies." That's hard. It's uncomfortable. But it is the way of Jesus.
Q: How do you balance embracing hip-hop rap culture, or pop culture in general, and abstaining from its sinful desires?
Andy: It's a regular struggle. A tension worthy of wrestling with. The people I have kept around me have helped me navigate it well. I don't think it's wise for Christians to try to navigate uncharted or tempting territory alone. We shouldn't be "islands." I also don't think that Christians should create insulated Jesus bubbles that remove them completely from reality and a culture that is in need of Gospel hope.
"I don't think it's wise for Christians to try to navigate uncharted or tempting territory alone."
Q: What challenges, if any, do you face being a rap artist from both the Christian community and those outside the church?
Andy: Some of the struggle is the stigmas that come along with the titles. My music is for everyone, but sometimes art isn't given a chance because of preconceived notions about who the music is for.
Q: How has marriage changed your approach to music?
Andy: Marriage has changed me as a human, which has changed a lot of things about the way I make music. I've learned more about love, sacrifice, sensitivity, family, and God. I'm grateful for that.
Q: What is one thing you hope people understand after listening to "Uncomfortable"?
Andy: Not everything in life is black and white. And that's okay.