Interviews
Sean Slaughter
By Robin Caldwell
Sean Slaughter is more than psalmist Alvin Slaughter 's baby boy. In his own right, Sean has and is currently revolutionizing holy hip hop—taking it to that next level of ministry and musical excellence. Born and raised in Queens, New York, Sean gave up a $100,000 University of Rhode Island full football scholarship to pursue the life of a thug—a life in the streets. In this interview with GospelCity.com, he explains the turnaround and shares his opinion on everything - from Ma$e to ministry to the musicians who minister to him. Sean's eleventh CD, Die Another Day , is soon to be released.
GospelCity.com: You prefer being an independent artist versus being signed to a label. Please explain this choice.
Sean Slaughter: We run an independent label called Slaughter Music where I'm the CEO. I have nothing against major labels, it's just you have so much more freedom when you're an independent. The labels have more money and more power to get you out there faster, but I'd rather have the freedom to do musically what I want and let God elevate me.
GC: You're a versatile artist who has collaborated with modern dance choreographer Steve Rooks and commissioned your music to be set to his work. How did this come about? Would you do it again?
SS: I saw Steve dance a long time ago, before I was saved. He is super-talented and passionate about what he does. Steve and Desiree, his wife, used to go to a church; we attended called Brooklyn Tabernacle. I've known them since I was like 7 or 8 years old. It's the first time someone asked for my music to be incorporated in the style of dance Steve does. I don't know if I'll do it again, but I'm definitely for it. Music has a unique way to cross so many boundaries, genres and cultures.
GC: No one can accuse Sean Slaughter of imitating anyone, which is often the case when music ministers take on a genre popular in the secular arena. Without question, you have a serious/unique gift. What do you feel sets you apart from others in holy hip hop?
