Music has the power to transcend mere entertainment and touch on the profound. Sometimes, songs climb the charts and become anthems without listeners fully realizing the depth of their spiritual or religious undertones. Here, we explore 10 mainstream songs from the 21st century that are surprisingly about God, revealing the divine inspiration behind these popular hits.
- “Take Me to Church” by Hozier (2013)
At first listen, Hozier’s “Take Me to Church” might seem like a passionate love song, but it’s actually a critique of the Catholic Church’s stance on homosexuality. The song uses religious imagery to convey the sacredness of love in all its forms, equating devotion to a partner with religious fervor. - “Jesus Walks” by Kanye West (2004)
Yes Kanye — Kanye West has never been one to shy away from religious themes in his music. “Jesus Walks” is a raw and honest depiction of faith amidst struggle. Kanye raps about Jesus walking with people through the trials and tribulations of life, regardless of their sins or societal status. - “Everything You Want” by Vertical Horizon (2000)
While the lyrics of “Everything You Want” can be interpreted in various ways, some listeners have posited that the song touches on themes of unrequited love or desire. The notion that it is about God is one interpretation among many, as the lyrics speak to the longing for someone who is everything you want but is just out of reach. The song’s protagonist seems to be grappling with feelings of invisibility and frustration, as the object of their affection is focused on someone else who embodies all they desire. - “Praying” by Kesha (2017)
Kesha’s powerful ballad “Praying” is a poignant narrative of overcoming abuse and finding strength. While it’s a deeply personal song, it also contains a broader spiritual message about forgiveness, healing, and hoping that even those who have done wrong find their peace with God. - “God is a DJ” by Pink (2003)
Pink’s “God is a DJ” is an upbeat track that celebrates life’s rhythm and the idea that if God is a DJ, then life is a dance floor. The song encourages listeners to embrace the moment and live life to its fullest, suggesting that there’s a divine plan behind life’s chaos. - “Spirit in the Sky” by Norman Greenbaum (1969)
Though originally released in the late ’60s, “Spirit in the Sky” has remained popular throughout the decades, including the 21st century. This classic rock tune is known for its fuzzy guitar riff and mentions preparing for the afterlife with a “spirit in the sky” that’s always on standby. - “You Found Me” by The Fray (2008)
The Fray’s hit “You Found Me” is a raw expression of searching for God during moments of despair. The song’s protagonist questions why bad things happen to good people and why God seems absent in times of need, eventually finding some form of solace in faith. - “I Can Only Imagine” by MercyMe (2001)
MercyMe’s hit invites listeners to ponder what it would be like to stand before God in heaven. This contemporary Christian song crossed over to mainstream audiences, touching hearts with its message of hope and anticipation for eternal life. - “Hanging by a Moment” by Lifehouse (2004)
Despite not being explicitly about God or spirituality, has been perceived by many listeners as having spiritual undertones. The song, which soared in popularity and became a significant hit for the band, features lyrics that evoke themes of urgency and the desire for a deeper connection, elements that can be interpreted through a spiritual lens. - “Viva la Vida” by Coldplay (2008)
Coldplay’s “Viva la Vida” narrates the fall from grace of a king who once ruled the world. With references to St. Peter and Jerusalem bells, the song delves into themes of mortality, legacy, and seeking forgiveness from a higher power.
These mainstream songs from the 21st century reveal that conversations about God and spirituality are not confined to places of worship or religious texts. They show up, sometimes unexpectedly, in our everyday playlists, offering moments of reflection amidst our daily routines. Whether it’s through questioning, celebrating, or seeking understanding, these tracks prove that music can be a powerful conduit for exploring the divine.
