Religion, controversy in pop music, and songs - Blasphemy, Like a prayer & Losing my religion

Many have said that religion and prayer are an important part in keeping families together. Hence the saying "those that pray together, stay together." But do you really need religion as part of your family and relationships to be connected? Musicians have also questioned religion and written songs based on their experience and viewpoints.

Let's explore some controversial religious messages that four popular artists have pioneered - Madonna, R.E.M., Joan Osbourne, and Depeche Mode.

Please leave your interpretations and commentary on the meaning of these songs, and how music and religion have impacted your life, below.

Madonna - "Like A Prayer" 1989

In 1989, Madonna released her fourth album, Like a Prayer. The video for the song "Like a Prayer" was very controversial for its time. Madonna kissed a black man (who is either a saint or Jesus), dances seductively with burning crosses in the background, cuts herself with a knife, and witnesses a rape. A white man had attempted to rape a woman - and an innocent black man - who had attempted to save the woman, was arrested.

This video is controversial commentary on race and religion. The video draws a parallel between Jesus suffering on the cross, and a black man suffering by being wrongly accused as well.

Madonna makes a bold statement and the video was met with protest from many religious groups.

R.E.M. - "Losing My Religion" 1991

Update: On September 21, 2011, REM announced the end of their 30 year run as a band. We will miss you REM.

Possibly one of the best songs by R.E.M. of all time, Losing My Religion hit the charts in 1991.

The song reflects in losing religion, God, and faith. People have commented that this song describes a feeling when you have lost control over your life, and trying to seek seeking love and truth.

Joan Osbourne - "One of Us" 1996

The "What would God look like song."

In January 1996, Joan Osborne's song "One of Us" hit the Billboard Hot 100 number 4 positions. This song is very beautiful, and brings religion into music be questioning God's presence on Earth.

Joan ponders whether of not God is one of us, just a stranger on a bus, in night and day ... is God among us? She asks, what would God look like if he had a face? You cannot help question if God is physically present and around us everyday.

Depeche Mode - "Blasphemous Rumours" 1984

In 1984, Depeche Mode's video brought the issue of blasphemy to light. The song depicts reflects God in a negative way, as sung in the chorus:

"I don't want to start any blasphemous rumors

but I think that God's got a sick sense of humour,

and when I die, I expect to find Him laughing."

Considered very offensive to some, the song tells a story of a 16 year old girl's suicide attempt and a 18 year old girl hit by a car.

You may be able to relate to the religions connotations of these songs, you may think they are foolish messages. Regardless of your religious preferences, God gives some people faith, and faith teaches respect and understanding. Whether you have strong religious beliefs, are an atheist, or believe that God is here with us all, it is important to be a good person and be positive.

You do not have to be "religious" to be spiritual, happy, content, and be a positive influence in the lives of others.