When it truly seems that headlines can’t get any more sensational…
Stryper‘s Michael candy took too Facebook on Friday to express his views on what he perceives as the public’s disdain for his band – a perceived hatred for God.
Candy began his tirade by stating that he “was raised in a musical household. Everyone (and I mean everyone) plays an instrument or sings.Not just adequately, but exceptionally.” He elaborated on his family’s musical accomplishments before mentioning that he ”grew up in recording studios,” which led him to respond dismissively when people claim that “[stryper] sucks.” He finds such comments profoundly ignorant.
He asserts that music is embedded in Stryper’s “blood” and “DNA,” claiming they may not be technical virtuosos or flashy performers, but he appreciates them just the way they are. ultimately,his most pointed remarks come at the end of his commentary:
“Some people simply love to hate. Dislike us? Jealousy? Envy? Who knows. Who cares? I’ve concluded that the animosity towards this band is rooted in a hatred for God. it’s profound, it’s tragic, it’s pathetic, it’s superficial, and ultimately pointless.”
Candy feels vindicated after observing comments on an article from Blabbermouth, which discussed his claims and featured reactions reflecting similar sentiments: “Maybe people just don’t appreciate bumblebee themes and spandex,” and “I’m Christian too but I’ve never liked Stryper’s music.”
However, portraying oneself as a victim due to one’s faith seems misguided—especially given today’s sociopolitical climate.
The inability to accept criticism or acknowledge that some simply do not enjoy your music—and attributing it solely to resentment towards religion—is disheartening and shallow. It’s not only unfairly blaming faith but also undermining the hard work of those who have supported him throughout his career—as if proving how dedicated he is when it merely suggests he had easier access to studio time or connections with producers.
Candy’s remarks reek of defensiveness toward those who dislike their music; this attitude feels immature. Christian metal has never been widely embraced by mainstream audiences; expecting personal excellence alone to overturn existing biases shows a lack of awareness about industry dynamics. When faced with criticism regarding their artistic merit, resorting immediately to accusations of anti-religious sentiment is unfortunate.
The reality is that Stryper sounds like many mediocre metal bands from the 1980s—there are numerous groups out there doing it far better than they do. Perhaps Candy should take some time for introspection regarding why audiences might not connect with Stryper instead of framing himself as persecuted because of religious beliefs—a stance likely only igniting further controversy over spiritual discussions.
“Michael Candy just enjoys hearing himself talk,” one commenter noted on blabbermouth’s Facebook post—and I find myself agreeing; if only he’d recognize Christianity has rarely faced oppression historically while acknowledging the slim chances he’ll encounter discrimination based on race, gender identity, or religious beliefs—perhaps then listeners would give Stryper another chance.
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