Mormon Musicians
Music plays an integral role in Mormon culture. Many members are familiar with musicians like Lindsey Stirling, The Piano Guys, Alex Boye and David Archuleta.
But what of those less well-known? Jeremy Grimshaw gives an account.
Before recently, most Mormon composers weren’t particularly well known outside their faith’s circles; nonetheless, some composers have made waves in wider recognition.
Brandon Flowers (The Killers)
Brandon Flowers of The Killers and Mormon has established himself in the music industry. His band has performed to sold-out stadiums all around the world and he ranks among one of the highest paid musicians worldwide.
Flowers has often cited Oasis and New Order as sources of musical inspiration for his band’s glamorous indie rock sound, while Day and Age by The Killers with its array of saxophones, steel drums, harpsichords, tribal chanting, and other instruments as a hallmark is considered their most playful record thus far.
LDS musicians are making waves in the music industry with their distinctive sounds and have even reached the Billboard charts, including Madilyn Paige, Janice Kapp Perry and The Piano Guys who are widely-renowned for their beautiful songs and entertaining videos; inspiring many people to pursue their goals.
The Strike
Created by the creators of South Park, this raunchy musical makes fun of Mormonism and religion in general, taking liberties with Joseph Smith having sexual encounters with frogs while fighting dysentery.
Black Comedy elements also abound, such as Elder Price’s shocked reaction when the Mission President informs him he and Elder Cunningham are being sent to Uganda.
Similar to its predecessors, this play pokes fun at racial stereotypes with most Ugandan characters appearing white. Additionally, Yoda, Darth Vader and Lt. Uhura can often be found appearing as pop culture cameos; its message remains positive while encouraging people to improve themselves; its focus should not become too fixed on religion while seeing beyond religion to see the bigger picture.
Neon Trees
Neon Trees, an internationally-acclaimed rock band hailing from Provo, Utah has an immense Mormon following since their lead singer Tyler Glenn came out as gay in 2014. Since then, Glenn has combined his musical passions with LDS practice, particularly after producing “Trash”, an anti-LDS video that takes aim at their policy on baptizing children of same-sex couples. However, Glenn’s latest video “Nikon” further divides community opinion.
All four members of this band share a Mormon background, including Glenn who served a two-year mission in Nebraska. Their 2014 album Pop Psychology was heavily influenced by Glenn’s acceptance of his sexuality which can be heard throughout its freer sound. Now working on their next record due out in 2020 – we can’t wait to hear what surprises they have in store!
Ben Howington (Mormon Guitar)
Ben Howington, better known online as Mormon Guitar, has been an avid guitarist since his teens. To share his passion for hymns through electric guitar arrangements and video videos of them being performed live each month by family members he would pick one hymn per month to arrange; each month Howington would devote one month arranging it before posting videos online of it for all to view. Over one year has passed with 12 arrangements posted so far; Howington learned through this project how different aspects of songs can bring emotions out in new ways; his daughter Lila was diagnosed with brain tumor in 2008 but remains in remission four years later with six-month checkups still being required every six months.
GENTRI
When performing, members of GENTRI are inspired to deliver an impactful message through music that’s bigger than themselves. Their music has touched people around the globe – particularly through songs like “Silent Night,” which tells a powerful tale of forgiveness and reconciliation.
Established in 2014, Brad Robins, Casey Elliott and Bradley Quinn Lever are best known for their cinematic pop sound with lush orchestral arrangements. Their debut album made an impactful debut in 2015 reaching two Billboard charts’ top ten positions.
RISE, their latest album released earlier this year, showcases three-part harmony vocals and impressive vocal chops, earning positive reviews from critics such as being featured on popular podcast The Ringmaster. But Robins says his favorite aspect of being part of RISE is still its brotherhood and bond among its members.
