Skillet's John Cooper on 'Demonic' Christmas Song Debate and Music's Purpose

Skillet's "O Come, O Come Emmanuel" Rendition

• 🤘 Skillet released their first Christmas song, a rendition of "O Come, O Come Emmanuel," which has been met with overwhelming fan reception.
• 💡 The band aimed to capture the mood and ancient meaning of the original Advent song, which speaks to both the first and second comings of Christ.
• 🎸 The arrangement starts lighter, reflecting the somberness and expectation of the original, before transitioning to a heavier, more intense "Skillet version."

Addressing Controversy and Criticism

• ⚠️ Some online critics, including those with followings, labeled the song as "demonic" or "ungodly."
• 🤯 John Cooper expressed surprise at this criticism, given Skillet's nearly 30-year history of making loud, rock music.
• 🤝 Cooper approaches critics with grace, understanding that some may genuinely believe rock music is evil, stemming from his own upbringing.

The Heart Behind the Music

• 💔 The heavier part of the song aims to express the hardship and heartache of the world, such as the death of loved ones.
• ⚡ It also represents the triumphant, earth-shaking power of Christ's incarnation and victory over sin, death, and the devil.
• 🎶 Cooper emphasizes that Satan distorts music, but God creates it, and Skillet's intent is to reclaim music for God, not to "baptize something satanic."

Music's Role and Intent

• 🌍 The song's recording coincided with the assassination of Charlie Kirk, intensifying the feeling of brokenness and the desire for Christ's return.
• 📖 Cooper encourages listeners to watch the video and listen to the lyrics, highlighting the song's blatant gospel message.
• 🙏 He believes music, when used by God, can change lives and heal brokenness, and that the devil distorts, rather than creates, music.