By Joseph Knight

CIU Student Writer

 Driving beats rent the air as Christian hip-hop duo “Social Club Misfits” took the stage of Shortess Chapel at Columbia International University. The April show was a stop on the rappers “Into the Night” tour also featuring Christian recording artist Riley Clemmons and rapper “Deraj.”

Several long-time listeners of “Social Club,” as they’re known by many fans, were in the audience, including CIU senior Max Harding. Harding has been a fan of Social Club since the release of their debut album, “Misfits” in 2012. He was excited to experience what he calls the group’s “well-crafted beats” combined with lyrics that “touch his soul.” He likes the duo for the community that surrounds their music and the members themselves.

CIU alumnus Cameron Lickliter agrees. He was a part of a Social Club Misfits concert last summer and met the two rappers who make the music.

“They were so humble,” Lickliter said about his two-hour post-concert conversation with the duo discussing life and the Lord. He was excited to witness Social Club again, this time bringing his wife Melinda.

Social Club Misfits, made up of Christian rappers who go by “Fern” and “Marty Mar,” began in Miami, Florida in 2012. They have released five albums making a dent in the Christian hip-hop world. The duo’s sound combines with lyrics that are culturally relevant and share their heart for the message of Jesus Christ.

“We didn’t do anything to be artists, [we] just said ‘yes’ to God” Marty told his audience during the CIU concert. Since this “yes,” Marty went on to say that they have made God #1 in their lives and music. The current “Into the Night” tour originates from the idea of going into very dark places to share the love of Jesus. “Music for the next generation” that is still spiritually challenging is how one CIU audience member described the group.

The concert was sponsored by CIU, Columbia Christian hip-hop radio station, Millennial FM 95.9, and local businesses.

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