PHILADELPHIA, PA (March 19, 2015)–After Billboard’s recent policy change, it virtually shut the door on Christian rappers’ ability to chart in the Gospel category.
Despite the newly presented obstacle, Lamp Mode President and STELLAR® award-nominated Christian rapper Jason “Json” Watson’s new album No Filter has charted in the Top 20 on Billboard’s Top Christian Albums chart, debuting at #17.
Released Tuesday, March 10, Watson said of the 18-track studio LP, “I just pray it’s a blessing, glorifies God and encourages somebody’s heart.”
His prayers are being answered.
No Filter, aside from ranking among Billboard’s top-selling Christian albums according to official Nielsen estimates, is also garnering glowing industry reviews, and being well received by ministry supporters.
Testimonies of the profound ways in which the album has impacted the lives of the hearers have flowed in, which, for Watson, is the most important thing.
He kicked off 2015 strong with a “No More Secrets” campaign (www.DontKeepSecrets.org) tackling the difficult subject of sexual abuse.
He also released the “Secrets” video part one and two, based on the re-released songs first recorded in 2012 and 2013 respectively. They are available on the current album as bonus tracks.
The serious nature of that campaign set the tone perfectly for his sixth album, which tackles identity issues and gives listeners insights into the insecurities, and complexities of the man behind the music.
“A lot of times we want this perfect, pretty picture of who we are, but that’s not real,” said Watson. “I want people to see that we all have issues and flaws that we can take to Jesus and receive the help, and healing we need. That’s the message I want to get across.”
Featuring production from GRAMMY® Award-winning producers J.R. and G-Roc, as well as Mashell Leroy and D-Flow, No Filter is off to a strong start.
The album is currently available for purchase on iTunes here.
