What IS the Deal with Derek Webb's New Song? [Post Includes Profanity]

Since leaving the Caedmon's Call, Derek Webb's solo career has been followed with much interest and scrutiny by his fans. Gone are the happy-go-lucky songs in the key of G and, in their place, we have a more serious set of songs that dictate a very strong message. It was no small ruckus that was raised when his lyrics entered the realm of politics, but what really raised eyebrows was this statement:

"It seems I've finally found the line beyond which my label can support me, and apparently I've crossed it," Webb writes. "[A]t this point we're not sure when the record will come out and in what form. The majority of the controversy is surrounding one song, which I consider to be among the most important songs on the record …. [B]ecause of various legal/publishing issues we're having to be rather careful with how we do what we're going to do next."

Has Derek Webb finally crossed the line? Oh, yeah.

Webb's latest album, Stockholm Syndrome, contains a tune called "What Matters More" which includes some foul language. Here are the juicy parts.

‘Cause if you really believe what you say you believe you wouldn’t be so damn reckless with the words you speak...
...Meanwhile we sit just like we don’t give a shit about 50,000 people who are dyin’ today. Tell me, brother, what matters more to you?

Derek Webb is trying to make a point. Are you more concerned with his bad language than you are with the hurting and dying in the world? I don't know anyone who is so shallow but, apparently, Derek Webb does.

However, there are a thousand ways to make this point that don't involve making other Christians upset. Personally, I find the whole thing unnecessary. If the point can be made without creating division within Christianity then I think it should be done that way. Angering people is not going to encourage them to get out and take care of the poor and needy - it's just going to start an argument.

Caedmon's Call released an album a few years ago called "Share the Well" that kindly reminded us to help those in need. It's really not my favorite album, musically speaking, but it is possible to get this message out without insulting your fan base.