In a recent interview with LotsOfMusic, Stryper frontman Michael Sweet addressed criticism of the band’s Christian message. He highlighted a perceived double standard in the metal community.
Sweet responded to questions about pressure to tone down his faith. He explained how opposition strengthens the band’s resolve to maintain their message.
“Nope. As a matter of fact, when people come against us because of that, it makes us do it more,” Sweet said. “It’s like, if you want Striper to end, certainly don’t speak out against us because that’s going to just fuel the fire. And that’s going to make us continue on.”
Sweet elaborated on the reactions he encounters from critics.
“It seems to anger so many people when we talk about Jesus. I find that very interesting. Those people need to re-evaluate themselves in my opinion because why would that make you upset you know a band that talks about Jesus?” he continued. “And I get a lot of flack. I see it on my Facebook page. I hear the comments sometimes publicly in person. I’ll run into people who are so angry at the band because we sing about Jesus.”
He pointed out what he views as inconsistent treatment within the metal genre.
“And it’s just really bizarre to me because there are metal bands that sing about satan, and metal bands that sing about the occult. They don’t seem to get the flack that we get. Maybe I’m missing something there but at least that’s how it seems to me.”
These recent comments reflect the band’s long-standing challenges within the metal community.
Reports from Blabbermouth revealed Sweet’s earlier observations about Stryper facing mockery since their inception. He noted that artists expressing other beliefs—whether Muslim, atheist, or Satanist—often receive acclaim. Christian bands, however, face rejection.
The opposition became particularly evident in 2020. Ultimate Metal documented significant backlash when their album “Even The Devil Believes” received a negative review from UK journalist Dom Lawson. The reviewer cited the album’s Christian themes as a “major turn-off.” Sweet characterized the review as an “incredibly unfair” and “blatant attack on our faith.”
The band maintains unwavering commitment despite ongoing criticism. MetalSucks reported that drummer Robert Sweet also experienced pushback for their Christian stance. This indicates a shared challenge among all band members.
These challenges have influenced the band’s musical evolution. They have developed a heavier, more aggressive metal sound. This change serves as their response to treatment within hard rock circles while preserving their faith-based lyrics.
