This is probably the most difficult section to deal with. As you all know, IVM focuses on covering Christian-related music. I say Christian-related for a reason… that being we do not just cover Christian bands. Some may ask what the difference is and that’s why this issue is being covered. There are many ways of saying these two things but I’m going to make it simple. There are really 2 main categories of bands we should pay attention to:

1) Christian bands – bands who’s main purpose is ministry. Most CCM artists would fall in this category. Usually obvious in the lyrical content that they are Christians.

2) Christians in bands – This is where most bands we cover will be and covers a wide range of lyrical content, but it’s less cut-and-dry than Christian bands.

Who IVM covers in this category:

*All members claim to be Christians and have explicitly stated so or if you know them personally, and who sing about faith in their songs. Band lyrics are blatantly Christian in nature and talk about faith, along with normal life issues, but who do not call themselves a “Christian band”

*All members claim to be Christians and have explicitly stated so or if you know them personally, but who do not sing about faith.

*The main lyricist/vocalist claims to be a Christian. We have covered and will cover bands like this.

Who IVM does not cover in this category:

*Bands who claim to be Christian, but use profanity/vulgar language in their lyrics, promote drunkenness, drugs, sex, etc.

*Bands who have members that claim to be Christians but the main lyricist/vocalist is not.

What to do if you’re unsure about a band?

*Search Google for interviews. I often will search for the band name with Christian (ie. Norma Jean Christian, The Devil Wears Prada Christian) which is usually helpful.

*Message them on Myspace or shoot them an e-mail. Most bands don’t have an issue responding to this question. Keep in mind some will ignore the message.

* If you really feel uncomfortable contacting a band you can always e-mail Josh and he will do his best to get an answer.

***DO NOT POST ABOUT A BAND UNTIL YOU KNOW FOR SURE WHERE THEY CLAIM TO STAND!***

*People know IVM covers Christian-related music so we need to be sure to maintain that standard.