Childish Gambino’s Because the Internet Turns 10 | Christian Rap
In 2013, polymath, Donald Glover (aka Childish Gambino), released his sophomore album, Because the Internet. The record was a multi-media odyssey that thematically juggled the internal discourse of a culture becoming increasingly desensitized, by the ever-evolving utility of the internet.
In honor of the album’s 10th anniversary, I took a revisit. I was reminded of its brilliance with its biting satire, sugary sweet pop rap sensibilities, and sincere moments of introspection.
Not to mention, that rollout was unlike any other. The album was accompanied by a screenplay, tightly interlocking all the songs together. There was a prequel short film entitled Clapping for the Wrong Reasons, a sci-fi narrative hanging in the background of all the music videos, the follow-up project, Stone Mountain mixtape /Kauai Ep. All of this leads to the show, Atlanta.
That aside, in listening to it, it did remind me of a few songs from some Christian artists that I think are worth giving a listen to. Here are some songs by some artists you might like if you enjoyed Childish Gambino’s Because the Internet:
1. Aaron Dews — iOS
“iOS” brings to light our unhealthy addiction to technology. It was supposed to be a part of an album called Season 1 which was never released. Hopefully, we will get a full-length LP from Dews soon. Until then I hope you feel guilty watching this on your smartphone.
2. Tragic Hero — Slow Motion
Tragic Hero is a veteran artist who has been around for more than a decade. For the past few years, his releases have been sparse but prolific. “Slow Motion” was part of a series of singles that focused on reconciling emotional and spiritual distress. This particular track focuses on his struggles to cope with his tendency to engage in harmful behaviors. Tragic Hero beautifully lands in the intersection of Kanye, Drake, and Kid Cudi. If that last sentence made you excited, then listen to this.
3. imrsqd — Heavy
Gambino’s “Because the Internet” explores the idea of a universal, collective oneness that he hopes to achieve one day. “Heavy” is a song that presents a counterbalance to that idea. The song connects the feeling of being heavy with the weight that everyone carries, as imrsqd goes on to pray for the healing of an entire generation. It’s a moving song that speaks to the hope for reconciliation and healing.
4. John Keith — The Bridge featuring Torey D’shawn
This song is included on this list for several reasons. Firstly, John Keith’s album Eremos is an incredible listen. It is an emotional and dark album with a matching soundscape. There are blatant crossovers with the themes of Because the Internet. Secondly, the album is not just a cynical look into someone’s depression, but it’s a healthy and fervent exploration of a life that leads to a dark place. Lastly, there is a track on the album called “The Conversation,” which is a clip of an interview that Donald Glover did during the press run for Because the Internet. It ties in brilliantly with the album, making it an even more compelling listen.
All of these songs explore themes of existentialism, isolation, and the desire to be accepted, despite feeling alienated. It’s interesting to know that these themes are not exclusive to non-Christians, and a Christian perspective can help expand the dialogue and understanding of these ideas.
Also…
If you like these songs, I have more bootleg Christian versions of Childish Gambino here in this playlist. Just kidding. They’re not knockoffs but they are pretty good. If you like Camp, Awaken My Love!, and more artsy existential pop rap R&B music, then you should enjoy this.
