“Follow God” by Kanye West is Worth a Listen

“Follow God” is the 3rd song on the “Jesus is King” album by Kanye West, first released in 2019. In the 1 minute and 45-second song, West raps about how it is difficult for him to live righteously under his father’s watch. He is determined not to repeat his past mistakes and would instead reach for God to follow him. The song is classified as hip-hop/rap but could be negotiated as Christian rap.

The song samples the song “Can You Lose by Following God,” a 1974 gospel song from The Whole Truth. The clips from 1:33-1:40 are borrowed. Although the track is written by West and five others—Aaron Butts, Bryant Bell, Calvin Eubanks, Curtis Eubanks, and Jahmal Gwin—West is the only featured voice.

Although I am not a fan or regular listener of West’s music, this is one of the select songs that I enjoy by West. The beat’s rhythm makes it easy for the listener to remember the song. The selection of sampled clips makes the song diverse and connects two different music genres, allowing the listener to enjoy the beat.

The song’s first line says, “Father, I stretch my hands to you,” is where West is reaching for God. In a sense, West is a lyrical genius. A celebrity’s audience may believe their religious beliefs are not existent or do not matter, but West has revealed God’s importance in his upbringing and life. Religion and cultural beliefs are often not discussed much when it comes to celebs and influencers. West has described his beliefs and has made a difference in the music industry, combining two different genres and explaining his beliefs in lyrics where unless the listener were to analyze them, the listener might not believe West is talking about Gods importance in his life.

The cover photo to “Follow God” is an adjusted picture of the actual song, “Can You Lose by Following God,” where lyrics are borrowed. West has also wanted to incorporate and acknowledge the song.

“Follow God” has two nominations, including the Billboard Music Award for Top Christian Song and the BET Award for Best Gospel/Inspirational Artist. Another two awards are the Billboard Music Award for Top Gospel Song, GMA Dove Award for Rap/Hip Hop Recorded Song of the Year, and has developed a new conversation to the hip-hop community.