News
NEWS: #CHHSexism Trending On Twitter (Part 1)
It’s historically known that women have had to face a variety of challenges in almost every industry due to generations of teaching that has presented them as less than in some way. Over time, society has challenged those teachings and culture has changed significantly as a result. However, many women still have challenges that they have to push through in male dominated industries. This information isn’t a surprise to most. However, many may not realize how prevelent that old thinking still is within some church circles. Even more surprising to some is that those old ideas have also made their way into various sub-genres within church culture including Christian Hip Hop (AKA “CHH”).
Recently on Twitter, #chhsexism was trending as many discussed this issue rearing its head in various ways within the Christian hip hop sub-genre. The hashtag #chhsexism made known the adverse experiences, disadvantages and neglect faced by women in the sub-genre throughout recent years.
There was much support and agreement for artists and influencers within chh who shared grievances via Twitter. See tweets below.
Some brought tangible solutions to the table.
That’s not to say that there wasn’t disagreement, some could not come to an understanding. Some who denied the presence of sexism were challenged to simply listen. There were conflicting views regarding boundaries and convictions, how men and women are to work together, issues of male and female on the same tour and issues concerning the spouses of artists.
Those topics preceded more complex matters such as how Jesus related to women and sexism in the church at large.
Offline conversations between artists were said to have taken place, some as a result of the hashtag.
The tweet that began a three-day dialogue between artists, influencers, fans and some outsiders to Christian hip-hop, came from musician and visual artist, Catalina “Cataphant” Bellizzi-Itiola.
Cataphant is known for her 2015 EP, Half Dead, as well as her musical contributions with artists from Humble Beast. She is also known as the founder of the YOUNG LADY movement, and her previous column on the Forth District. She is also the wife of rapper, Wordsplayed who backed her up on creating the hashtag.
In a Facebook post, Catalina (AKA @Cataphant) explained what led to her initial tweet using the hashtag.
“ #chhsexism is a hashtag I started on twitter after a troll took it a little too far with insulting me over his belief that the gender wage gap doesn’t exist, then proceeded to let me know he loves my husband’s music. This was the last straw with countless sexist negative experiences with the christian hip hop music industry throughout the years, and the hashtag was birthed.”
In the aftermath of #chhsexism that brought possibly just the tip of the iceberg to the surface, we at ArtSoul Radio will offer more resources to further the conversation in an upcoming post. Until then, check out the preview of our coming video that will highlight 25 female emcees that we think you should know. Trust us, they’re out there! We’re going to get you all caught up!
Chicago was the backdrop for a moment you couldn’t script any better: GRAMMY®, Dove, and Stellar Award-winning powerhouse Jonathan McReynolds linking arms with American Idol Season 23 winner Jamal Roberts to deliver a live ballad that hits straight to the soul. Their new single, “Still,” isn’t just another worship record—it’s a reminder that God’s love is the one thing that doesn’t shift when life does.
Recorded live in McReynolds’ hometown, the song is lifted from his forthcoming project Closer—an album already carrying heavy anticipation. What unfolds in “Still” is classic Jonathan: heartfelt storytelling, layered with rich theology, now elevated by Roberts’ fresh, unshaken voice.
👉 Watch the live performance here.
Legacy Meets New Fire 🔥
Jonathan McReynolds has carved out a lane few can touch—an artist who makes Gospel feel as real as your group chat confessions. His catalog has always balanced honesty and worship, bringing Sunday morning depth into everyday playlists.
Enter Jamal Roberts: the new voice America fell in love with on American Idol. His win wasn’t just about vocal ability—it was about heart, authenticity, and the kind of presence that feels rare. Pairing him with McReynolds doesn’t just make sense; it feels prophetic. It’s the kind of intergenerational link-up that keeps Gospel fresh while honoring its roots.
The Vibe
With “Still,” Jonathan McReynolds and Jamal Roberts don’t just give us another Gospel single—they give us a soundtrack for resilience. It’s raw, it’s soulful, and it’s proof that the future of faith-based music is in good hands. Expect this one to be on repeat long after the Stellars.
Culture
ArtSoul Radio & Actor Empowerment Summit Host Sneak Peek of BET+ Series Churchy with KevOnStage at XL Film Fest
Chicago, IL — August 17, 2025 – ArtSoul Radio is teaming up with the XL Film Festival, The Actor Empowerment Summit, and BET+ to bring fans an exclusive sneak peek of KevOnStage’s hit comedy series Churchy. This one-night event will feature a special panel conversation with KevOnStage and the full cast, moderated by Chicago’s own Christal Luster, along with an advance screening of highlights from Season 2.
A First Look at Churchy Season 2
Fans will get a behind-the-scenes look at Season 2 of Churchy ahead of its official August 21 premiere on BET+. Kevin “KevOnStage” Fredericks returns as Pastor Corey Carr Jr., navigating church leadership, unexpected debts, and laugh-out-loud moments with his eccentric team. The new season promises fresh surprises with appearances by Tabitha Brown, Kirk Franklin, Lecrae, Keith Lee, Tony Baker, and many more.
Chicago Exclusive – Then Available for ArtSoul Radio Community Members
Chicago, IL — August 17, 2025 – ArtSoul Radio is teaming up with the XL Film Festival, The Actor Empowerment Summit, and BET+ to bring fans an exclusive sneak peek of KevOnStage’s hit comedy series Churchy. This one-night event will feature a special panel conversation with KevOnStage and the full cast, moderated by Chicago’s own Christal Luster, along with an advance screening of highlights from Season 2.
A First Look at Churchy Season 2
Fans will get a behind-the-scenes look at Season 2 of Churchy ahead of its official August 21 premiere on BET+. Kevin “KevOnStage” Fredericks returns as Pastor Corey Carr Jr., navigating church leadership, unexpected debts, and laugh-out-loud moments with his eccentric team. The new season promises fresh surprises with appearances by Tabitha Brown, Kirk Franklin, Lecrae, Keith Lee, Tony Baker, and many more.
Chicago Exclusive – Then Available for ArtSoul Radio Community Members
For those in Chicago, the August 17th event offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to engage live with KevOnStage and his cast. Can’t make it in person? Join the ArtSoul Radio community to gain exclusive access to the full panel replay after the event.
Click here to sign up and stay connected. Community members will be the first to receive:
- A private link to the full panel replay
- Behind-the-scenes clips and highlights
- Special giveaways tied to Churchy Season 2
Why This Event Matters
Partnering with XL Film Fest and The Actor Empowerment Summit to bring this BET+ collaboration to Chicago is more than entertainment—it’s a cultural moment for faith-based media. It reflects the growth of Christian creatives in film, comedy, and storytelling while highlighting Chicago as a hub for innovative cultural conversations.
About Churchy
After debuting as one of the most-watched scripted comedies on BET+, Churchy quickly built a loyal fan base. Season 2 expands the storylines, bringing new characters, guest stars, and bigger laughs—all while spotlighting themes of faith, community, and resilience. Produced by KevOnStage Studios alongside industry leaders and executive producers like LeBron James and Maverick Carter (SpringHill), the show continues to elevate digital-first creators onto global platforms.
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