Stryper’s Michael Sweet recently addressed criticism about his solo work. He explained why his album “Ten” was intentionally heavy in a statement shared on Facebook.
The statement focused on responding to fans who claimed his solo material couldn’t match Stryper’s heaviness. These fans also argued that the band’s heavy sound came from other members rather than Sweet himself.
“The solo album ‘Ten’ (and even the album prior to that entitled ‘One Sided War’ to some degree) was purposely meant to be a heavy, guitar driven album, similar to Stryper,” Sweet said. “Why? Because over the years quite a few people have said: ‘His solo stuff doesn’t compare to Stryper,’ ‘The heavy from Stryper doesn’t come from Michael, it comes from the other guys,’ ‘Michael isn’t heavy, he’s light.’ On and on and on….”
Sweet explained that the album served as a direct response to these criticisms.
“Well, the album ‘Ten’ was an ‘Oh yeah? Let me show you’ moment. A chance to prove those comments and theories wrong,” he continued. “I love heavy as much as I love lightening it up a bit, as you can see/hear the difference between Ten & The Master Plan. I grew up (and loved) Judas Priest & Maiden every bit as much as Journey & Survivor.”
The musician emphasized his versatility and passion for different musical styles.
“I’ve always loved chugging & cranking up those Boogies/Marshalls as much as I love piano, acoustic guitar, strings, keys and bringing the gain/volume down a little. That’s what makes me, me,” Sweet said. “Anyway, I just wanted to explain this a little to those who may be wondering.”
Sweet’s response provides insight into the creative decisions behind one of his most significant solo releases. It also reveals his ongoing role as Stryper’s driving force.
Wikipedia reported that “Ten” was released on October 11, 2019, via Rat Pak Records in North America and Frontiers Records in Europe. The release marked Sweet’s tenth solo studio album. The album achieved notable commercial success, peaking at No. 185 on the US Billboard 200, No. 4 on US Christian charts, No. 34 on US Rock charts, and No. 11 on US Hard Rock charts.
The album’s creation represents a significant moment in Sweet’s extensive solo career. His solo journey began in 1994 with his self-titled debut that sold over 250,000 copies. Rock Report described “Ten” as a melodic metal album. The publication positioned it within the hard rock genre that Sweet used to address fan criticisms about his ability to match Stryper’s intensity.
Sweet serves as Stryper’s frontman, guitarist, lead vocalist, and producer. He has been the primary architect of the band’s sound throughout their career. Sonic Perspectives noted that the album was scheduled for release as Sweet continued his dual role. He leads both his solo career and Stryper, demonstrating his ability to balance different musical approaches.
Sweet’s solo work has consistently explored diverse styles from heavy debuts to softer phases. This contrasts with Stryper’s consistent heavy metal Christian rock approach. The “Ten” album served as a definitive statement that Sweet could deliver the heaviness that fans associated with Stryper. He maintained the melodic sensibilities that have defined his broader musical career spanning over three decades.
