Rap Testimony

For too long, British theology has overlooked hip hop and rap as serious sites of theological reflection. Rap Testimony challenges neglect with intellectual rigour, theological imagination and deep cultural attentiveness. James F Broad demonstrates that Christian rap is not simply a musical genre but a living archive of testimony, identity formation and contemporary discipleship. This book makes a significant intervention in British theological scholarship by taking seriously the voices, experiences and creativity of artists who are reshaping the relationship between faith and popular culture. It is an important contribution that invites the UK theological guild to listen more carefully to the theological wisdom emerging from hip hop culture. An essential and timely read.

Robert Beckford, Scholar-activist and co-editor of Behold the Men (2025)

This is an insightful introduction to how testimony, as a Pentecostal ritual, intersects with Christian rap music. It is a valuable resource that includes an effective interdisciplinary methodology for investigating narrative theology within the context of Black British Christian rap artistry. A recommended core text, particularly for students of Pentecostalism, Christian theology and the arts.

Dr Dulcie Dixon McKenzie, Director, Centre for Black Theology, Queen's Foundation for Ecumenical Theological Education,

Rap Testimony is a valuable and original contribution to an under-researched area of study. Through its exploration of UK Christian rap, the book illuminates the complex ways in which music shapes faith, identity and community. Written from the perspective of an insider researcher, it combines academic rigour with lived experience, offering rare depth, authenticity, and insight. This is an important work that significantly expands our understanding of contemporary religious and cultural expression in Britain.

Pauline Muir, Senior Lecturer in Arts Management, Goldsmiths, University of London,