Lecrae

For the typical music fan, Lecrae's hard demeanor and crunk beats might belie what his lyrics are really about, his adoration of Jesus Christ. The main tenet influencing his mission and music is taken from Romans 1:16 of the Bible, "For I am not ashamed of the gospel." Although he was born on Houston's south side, Lecrae grew up in Denver, CO, and San Diego, CA. It was at the age of 19 that he decided to give his life to Christ. Using conventional methods to spread the Gospel, he has worked for ministerial services, including his presidency of ReachLife Ministries, conducting Bible studies and many other projects. However, Lecrae's success has come from his up-and-coming Christian rap career. In 2005, on Reach Records, he released his debut album, Real Talk, and as a part of the 116 Clique, he put out 116 Clique: The Compilation Album. The following year, Lecrae dropped the acclaimed After the Music Stops in July. It debuted at number one on the Christian Music Trade Association's R&B/Hip-Hop chart and peaked at number five on Billboard's Gospel Albums chart. His 2008 effort Rebel would top that same chart for two weeks while his 2010 release, Rehab, would top it for one. The latter would be nominated for Best Rock or Rap Gospel Album at the 53rd Grammy Awards.