The RELEVANT Podcast Episode 1297: Aodhan King & Benjamin William Hastings Made a Worship Album in 10 Days, Plus Lecrae and M.I.A.
Apr 16, 2026
Two former Hillsong members reveal how they recorded a worship album in just 10 days and the chaotic creativity that sparked it. The crew reacts to Lecrae’s Tiny Desk milestone and M.I.A.’s faith-rooted new record. There's a wild Raiders of the Lost Ark tangent, space tech glitches on Artemis, and a chimp clan civil war. Fast-paced nostalgia games round out the conversation.
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Lecrae Breaks Tiny Desk Barrier
- Lecrae became the first Christian rapper to perform a full Tiny Desk set, marking a genre milestone for NPR's series.
- NPR host Bobby Carter said, "if we're putting a spotlight on faith based hip hop, we had to start with Lecrae," signaling broader openness to Christian hip hop.
Use A Live Band To Bring Rap To Intimate Shows
- When translating hip-hop to intimate live formats, use a full live band to preserve energy and dynamics.
- Emily praised Lecrae's Tiny Desk set for pairing rap with a live band that translated well to the stripped-down stage.
M.I.A. Releases Faith Rooted MI7
- M.I.A. announced MI7, an album rooted in prayer, Revelation, and the Ark of the Covenant, reflecting a public faith-driven creative turn.
- Emily notes M.I.A.'s 2022 faith conversion and the album's theological inspirations, cautioning listeners to judge lyrics for themselves.