• Vampires and Legacies

    February 19, 2011 - Comments (42)

    So, maybe some of you have heard that a song from the new record, The Story of Your Life was featured on a recent episode of The Vampire Diaries. Honestly, I’ve never seen the show before, but judging by the amount of messages I received on twitter and facebook, it is safe to assume that lots of people watch. I got messages from Malaysia to the UK. Crazy. And while all of the feedback was incredibly positive, I know there can tend to be a few out there in the Christian community who frown on these such things; Christian music being used in the secular television shows and movies. So, I thought I would address the topic, and share a few of my thoughts.
    The song they used on the show is called Family Tree, and deals with the topic of dysfunctional family. Click on the song title to watch a video about it and read the story behind the song. Personally, I think it’s awesome that a song speaking truth about God’s redemption in our lives would find such a huge mainstream platform. Ever since I started writing songs, I felt compelled not to water down my message. I write about life. I write about life from the perspective of what is important to me. And the most important part of my life is my faith in God. So, I can’t help but write songs about life from that perspective of faith. This song was written from the perspective of God to us, saying “No, this is not your legacy, this is not your destiny, yesterday does not define you…” I am grateful that The Vampire Diaries allowed the song to reach a new audience, and hope that everyone who hears it can be reminded that it doesn’t matter what kind of dysfunction you come from, or what your home life was or is like. YOU can be the one who breaks the chain. YOU can be the one who brings new life to your family tree. You don’t have to be an alcoholic just like your dad was. Your marriage doesn’t have to end in divorce just like your parents’ did. Just because you were abused does not mean you will abuse. A new legacy can and will start with YOU.

    matthew POSTED BY:
    matthew

    • 42 comments

    1. 1. Sarah commented:

      Sat 19/2/11, 5:33 pm

      I love it when i hear my favorite Christian songs in secular tv shows and movies. I don’t think people should have a problem with it. The people who create the shows and movies know where the song is from, and perhaps they like that song and other music by that artist. That’s something to be thankful for. And it always says at the end in the credits of whatever it is, who it is that sang each song. Maybe someone will like the song and then find out who it’s by and look it up and then maybe they’ll like other music by said person (you or whoever). It could really end up to be a great thing. There’s no reason why it should be wrong. Christians who don’t crossover songs, apparently have a problem with Christian music spreading to the world. I think its a great thing, even if it means that the song works both ways. It can reach more people like that.

    2. 2. Melissa Sanders commented:

      Sat 19/2/11, 9:38 pm

      Hi Mr. West,

      I just want to throw in my 2 cents. I would much rather see something christian cross over into the secular world than reverse! Too much ‘world’ has infiltrated our churches so I think it’s good to see your song being used in such a way. I will be praying that God will touch lives and hearts through your song.

      Thank you for showing that God is strong enough to overcome dysfunction!

      ~Melissa

    3. 3. Emi commented:

      Sun 20/2/11, 5:11 pm

      I’m with Sara, I get a kick out of hearing music I know, regardless of where it’s at…. And hearing them use a Christian song in place you may not expect it I think is lots of fun!

      Family Tree is one of my favorites. It’s a message I feel like I have lived. Let’s face it: who hasn’t had to overcome some dysfunction in our life? That’s why we cheered last night… Because we can all relate. After all, we live in a pretty weird place where weird things happen. ;)

      Creating your own legacy is definitely a message that can reach out even past the Christian community. It’s something that everyone needs to know can be done, and for those that have lived it, it’s still encouraging to be reminded that we are NOT defined by our past.

    4. 4. paul zimdahl commented:

      Thu 24/2/11, 8:37 pm

      I just wanted to say that your music is such an inspiration to me and my wife….recently my wife Jen her mom passed….she has remained faithful to God…but has fallen away from church which is where i get my “soul food”…She is such a wonderful Godly women and is such an inspiration to me….but i believe we need to be around other christians to remain strong…and this is where you come in matthew…in our hustle bustle life we always turn our christian station on….she loves your music….i recently bought tickets to your valparaso indiana concert ….she is so excited to see you….kinda weird for me to admit she is excited to see another man….but i am more than okay with it…as you are awesome…..cant wait for your indiana concert….and p.s. thanks to a coworker she is back at church…….God bless……see you soon

    5. 5. Larry Evaro commented:

      Fri 25/2/11, 1:39 pm

      Matthew, I agree. Too many times We as believers limit our limitless God. Your new Cd is amazing and it’s been in my cd player ever since my wife gave it to me for Christmas. God’s blessings on you and yours. Come to montana, we’d love to have you. Great Falls.

    6. 6. Heather commented:

      Fri 25/2/11, 1:41 pm

      I think that it is wonderful that Family Tree crossed into a popular secular television show! This song touched me in such a deep way as it expresses exactly what our ministry wants to share as we work with foster youth transitioning to adulthood. Their past does not define them!

      Thank you for sharing your gift of music with everyone!
      Blessings,
      Heather

    7. 7. Isaiah McAleese commented:

      Fri 25/2/11, 1:48 pm

      Hey Matt, I think it’s great they used your song. Redemption is something everyone needs to hear about. I think that it’s good when Christ followers hear stories of hope, joy, redemption, etc., but the ones that need to hear those stories even more are those that don’t know Him. May God get all the glory.

    8. 8. Dacia commented:

      Fri 25/2/11, 1:49 pm

      I agree! It’s completely wonderful that your song of redemption reached so many ears! God works in wonderful ways. What does the Christian community want, but to help God find his lost bride!?! We should be on our knees thanking God that his message is reaching beyond the body that’s seeking Him. Praise God!!!

    9. 9. Connie commented:

      Fri 25/2/11, 1:49 pm

      Mathew I feel so proud for christians like you. We need to reach that kind is spaces and I know God is going to use you and becoming a lot of people who need of him.

    10. 10. Gena commented:

      Fri 25/2/11, 1:49 pm

      Glad to see your music reaching new ears. For those that question it, isn’t that our job? If we keep the message to ourselves, who have we served? I have made the mistake of keeping myself in my own little christian bubble in the past. There was no spreading the Good News going on! Thanks for being a light Matthew!

    11. 11. Diane commented:

      Fri 25/2/11, 1:52 pm

      Matthew, I think it is awesome that your song is used in a tv show. Regardless of what kind of show it is, a christian artist’s song appeared in a show. It is an honor I am sure that they liked your song enough to include it in their show. Your music is an inspiration to everyone that listens to it. We saw you last night in Colorado and were amazed at how much you touched our lives with your music and lyrics. God has truly blessed you with the ability to reach others with your song. Take it as a compliment that someone wants to use your song in thier show. God bless you and your family. Thank you for being an inspiration sent from God.

    12. 12. Lara commented:

      Fri 25/2/11, 1:52 pm

      Those who would fuss about this need to examine it from the perspective that you are indeed following Jesus’ Great Commission to us! This is a wonderful example of GO AND MAKE DISCIPLES! If just one person grasps the message that God is in the business of renewing and restoring, then it’s worth it!!!!!!

      Keep writing what God lays on your heart! Your words are anointed and favored!!

      Blessings!
      Lara
      Jeremiah 29:11

    13. 13. Christy commented:

      Fri 25/2/11, 1:54 pm

      How quickly some Christians forget that Jesus dined and associated with tax-collectors, women of ill repuation, the sickly and diseased, pharisees and the demon-possessed! He spent more time “in the world” than in the synagogue. I remember too what St Francis said – “Preach the Gospel to all men. If necessary, use words.” While a song I guess could count as “words”, your song might be the only exposure to Godly hope some of these kids receive. Well done, faithful servant.

    14. 14. Martha commented:

      Fri 25/2/11, 1:56 pm

      Matthew, you just keep doing what God calls you to do. Praise God that someone in the secular world saw worth in your work and is using it in spite of this politically correct society. God bless all you do in His name, in His will.

    15. 15. Donna Siebert commented:

      Fri 25/2/11, 1:58 pm

      Matthew, That’s exactly where it needs to be heard!

      Matt 5:15 No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to EVERYONE in the house.

    16. 16. Emily commented:

      Fri 25/2/11, 1:59 pm

      Matthew – This is one of my favorite songs. I come from dysfunction as well. My mother is bi-polar (manic depressive) and my father committed suicide when I was 7. A dear friend of mine at church blessed me when she said that I have broken the cycle and chains of dysfunction with my children, and your song is a constant reminder that what I grew up with does not have to haunt me forever. I define me. I am Emily and my childhood DOES NOT predict what my childrens life will be. The cycle ended with ME!!
      Thank you and God Bless you always!!! ~Emily – DGS class of ’96 – Go Mustangs :)

    17. 17. Claudia Miller commented:

      Fri 25/2/11, 2:00 pm

      So excited when I sat in my living room with a few of my daughters friends. Your song came on at the end of the show, my daughter said “mom, is that Matthew West singing?” I listened for a minute answered that I thought it was. Instantly the two girls that are not Christians wanted your CD. I provided it for them as soon as I could. Cool Cool Cool. Thank you!!

    18. 18. Kelly commented:

      Fri 25/2/11, 2:14 pm

      My husband was flipping through the channels and heard your voice … was very surprised to hear your song on that show. However, we thought it was great that you will touch the lives of a whole knew group of people, ones who may never have listened to you had it not been for this show, ones who may need God and not know it right now… so, I think it’s very cool!

    19. 19. Kathy commented:

      Fri 25/2/11, 2:20 pm

      I guess I am confused by those that don’t approve of your music being played on a secular show. Should we not, as Christians, go out into the world to spread the word of God? A seed has been planted when someone hears your music. That is what is supposed to happen. Who knows what could grow from that? We are not to segregate ourselves and only do Christian things around Christian people. What would be accomplished in that? I say, spread the word of God and the news of His love for us all to whoever will listen. I hope I hear your music on other shows as well. God Bless.

    20. 20. Pam commented:

      Fri 25/2/11, 2:54 pm

      This type of crossover is not always easy or easily understood except when we know for certain it’s of the Lord and not of ourselves. Too often we try to make the truth palatable to the world rather than just allowing the message in it’s purest form to reach whoever it intends. Blessing to you Matthew West for your ministry and your wonderful music wherever it’s heard.

    21. 21. Tricia commented:

      Fri 25/2/11, 4:13 pm

      Thank you for your stand. I loved hearing your song on the Vampire Diaries. I agree with all those that have stated why should we keep our songs, our message just to ourselves? I wonder how many people heard that song that night, looked it up, maybe purchased Matthew’s cd because of it and can you imagine the impact it will have on their lives! We have the power to reach out and touch others. To often we are afraid too!
      Way to go!

    22. 22. Jenny commented:

      Fri 25/2/11, 4:32 pm

      I don’t watch that show…I personally can’t stand anything to do with vampires, but I am soooooo glad that a song with a positive Christian message is reaching a new audience…I also love it when songs by my favorite Christian artists are on unexpected tv shows and movies…I’ll never forget watching a MU Tigers football game a few years ago and hearing TobyMac’s “Boomin’” …I also remember hearing “Ignition” on an ad for Starz…I don’t know if it’s a pride thing or not, but I love when Christian artists have their talents recognized by secular media… lol

    23. 23. Stacy commented:

      Fri 25/2/11, 4:37 pm

      Let me just say that yes, we need to be in the world, but we have to be careful about how that witness is presented. Having a song played on a show, in my book, would be seen as endorsing the content of that show. In this case, I have never seen the show in question, that is just something to think about.
      It call to mind an occasion several years ago, when Amy Grant allowed her song “The Power” to be used for a realtor commercial. This song is about the Holy Spirit. What in the world does this have to do with selling property? That seemed to make a mockery of the Spirit.
      I think you have to investigate what your music is being used to sell. For instance, if an artist records a love song about his/her spouse and it is played during a scene of fornication or infidelity, that would be misrepresenting God’s love for his church which is represented by faithful marriage.

    24. 24. Janelle commented:

      Fri 25/2/11, 5:52 pm

      Matthew I was so excited to hear Family Tree on The Vampire Diaries. I completely agree with you about it reaching a new audience and that’s why I get so excited when I hear Christian artist’s music on mainstream tv. I say keep up the great work and reaching more and more people for God!

    25. 25. Amy commented:

      Fri 25/2/11, 6:18 pm

      I watch the show and recognized your song when they played it. I thought it was awesome to hear such a positive message come through, and I’m glad you were open to the opportunity. We never know what seeds were planted in people’s lives through the music…people who desperately need to hear the Truth of God’s love and who do not attend church and have no other way of being exposed to the Gospel.

      Also, this isn’t the first time they’ve used music from a Christian artist on the show. They used a song from Plumb in Season One.

      Jesus didn’t shy away from contact with the tax collectors, the lepers, the adulteress….he reached people where they lived, and to me, this is an example of how we can reach people where they live today with the message of LIFE.

    26. 26. Lori Thomas commented:

      Fri 25/2/11, 6:36 pm

      I totally agree that we need to share with others, but frankly I can’t imagine why any Christian families would be watching such a TV show in the first place. We need to protect what comes into our homes and into our children/families minds.

    27. 27. Greg Lamb commented:

      Fri 25/2/11, 7:18 pm

      I think Jesus has got a bad rap by the way us “Christians” portray him. I like what Tozer said, “Jesus came not to condemn, but to reclaim.” AW Tozer I think we should raise the banner high that Jesus came to “heal the brokenhearted and set the prisoners free” (Isaiah). What an incredible message to share!

    28. 28. Margie commented:

      Fri 25/2/11, 7:22 pm

      Jesus crossed over into our world to reach us and save us… I think if your music can do that then you’re doing what God has called you to do…. Keep on keeping on! Love your music!

    29. 29. Miranda Slater commented:

      Fri 25/2/11, 7:56 pm

      I think that Christian songs should appear more on television and movies, besides radio. Some of my favorite artists like Skillet have had their songs appear on commercials and to me, it’s just another way to show people God. I hope one day to have one of my songs come up on t.v. Once I become a Christian singer that is. =)

      Loved seeing you in Twin Falls!

    30. 30. Trisha commented:

      Fri 25/2/11, 9:48 pm

      At first, I was extremely surprised that your song was in the episode. I wondered if you even knew they would use it. I wondered what it was doing in a show about demonic beings, then I had to check myself because after all, I was watching this show and I love the show. I also had to give the producers bonus points because the song was used at the absolute perfect point. The show has been dealing a lot with the fact that this generation of humans, vampires, and yes even witches and werewolves are all dealing with basically one thing : the sins of their fathers (and mothers). Dysfunctional beyond belief. They are forced to deal with family lineage and history. The teens are torn because of it. Your song about overcoming the sinful and wrongdoings of our past was beautifully used in a montage as each teen dealt with that past in their own manner. I had to also realize that now just about every viewer would wonder WHO was singing the beautifully haunting song at the ending montage. And that would lead them to you and your cd. A CD which glorifies God. And the song gives every lesson and advice which you speak of, Matthew. If using that song in this show brought even one more person to God, which I’m sure it did, then I pray they use more of your songs in more shows. More of Christian music in general in secular tv shows. That’s what we should be doing – reaching to the least of these. So, thank you. For never watering down the message.

    31. 31. Katie commented:

      Fri 25/2/11, 9:51 pm

      I love it when Christian songs are used in the secular world because, as you pointed out, it reaches a new audience. It is another opportunity for someone’s heart to be touched and life changed. The only time I have a problem with it is if the song is misused or mocked. That’s not ok.

      Thanks for the encouragement that we are not “fated” to have the same failures as those who came before us. We are given new opportunities, new chances. It won’t be easy but “hard” is not synonymous with “impossible.”

      Thank you for not watering down the message of Christ! It is such an important one! And congratulations for how He is using you in ways never imagined!

      < Katie
      Katieax.blogspot.com

    32. 32. Noelle commented:

      Sat 26/2/11, 4:18 pm

      I’m sorry to be the one negative voice here but I do not support this song being played on a show like the Vampire Diaries. I have seen this program and I believe that it both endorses and glorifies the practice of witchcraft, much in the way that the Harry Potter series does. While the song itself may have been pleasant to hear on a show like that and caused viewers to search out its title and artist, I still see this as nothing more than a fusion of light and darkness. When reading the comments posted here, 2 scripture verses come to mind:
      1.) “What communion has light with darkness?” (2 Corinthians 6:14)
      2.) “Have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them.” (Ephesians 5:11)

      God Bless.

    33. 33. Alejandra commented:

      Mon 28/2/11, 1:08 pm

      This the first time i hear about you…. thanks vampire diaries by the way. I like the serie even though im christian and i liked the song when i watched the episode so i download it and when i listened it…i thought… it sounds like a christian song… i know now i was right xD
      blessings from chile

    34. 34. Audria commented:

      Thu 3/3/11, 2:54 pm

      Thank you Mr. West for your songs Broken Girl and Family Tree. I never would have expected to hear my own broken story in music. Thank you for sharing your gift.

    35. 35. brooke commented:

      Sat 12/3/11, 10:04 am

      I love to hear songs like this when I am sitting back watching TV or washing dishes with the TV on. It’s almost as if God says to me, “Hey! I am here, too…in your everyday routines, in your TV viewing, in your normal life. I am speaking, I love you, and I hope you are listening.” Only good can come from Christian songs being played in the mainstream media, in my opinion. I remember watching a movie once and hearing a song that I did not recognize. But I LOVED the singer’s voice, and I just had to know who it was. So I recorded the movie on DVR and watched the ending credits in slow motion to find out (I know, I know, dorky, right?) Turns out it was Micheal Buble singing “Home”, back before anyone knew who he was or that song had really gotten much airplay. Anyway, that day I ordered the CD on Amazon. Think how many people may experience this same thing with a Christian song or artist, buy the CD, and even have an encounter with Christ as a result. You just never know. I love your writing Matthew, and by the way, my little boy’s name is Matthew, too. :) Keep up the good work and God bless you!

    36. 36. Theresa commented:

      Sat 19/3/11, 7:02 am

      I watch Vampire Diaries every Thursday! I also go to church every Sunday! I can honestly say that I just about jumped up and down on my bed when I heard your song Family Tree come on at the end of that episode! I found it so fitting and I was thrilled to hear one of my favorite Christian artists played on one of my favorite secular TV shows! Thank you for reaching out to those whom may never have heard your songs or your name until that night!!! THAT is what it is all about … getting God’s word out there to EVERYONE!

    37. 37. Julie commented:

      Sat 19/3/11, 6:46 pm

      I had never heard your music before watching that episode. Once I did hear it I searched until I found out who the artist was. I found it amazing that the producers of the show chose a Christian recording artist to showcase, I think it’s fantastic that they did. I’ve since downloaded many of your songs from ITunes and spread your name amongst family and friends as someone who not only has a beautiful voice but a unique way of telling a story, your songs are powerful and they make people stop and think. I hope more shows consider using Christian songs in their series. Don’t let the nay sayers persuade you from allowing this. Too many times people shy away from religions because of all the rules they feel they will be forced to obey. I feel that having any amount of God in your life is a great thing no matter where you get it from whether it’s sitting through a service, seeing a kind act performed or hearing it in a song….it’s good for the soul!

    38. 38. Darla Roark commented:

      Wed 6/4/11, 2:25 am

      I just finished watching this episode and instantly recognized your voice because I hear you all the time on KLOVE! :) I’m so glad God is using you to make a positive impact on the world. God bless you!

    39. 39. Nick commented:

      Tue 12/4/11, 8:51 am

      I googled “this is not your legacy, this is not destiny” as soon as I finished watching this episode. I was so glad that I found you and your this awesome song! the lyrics is so meaningful. Keep it up, keep moving on! God bless you!

    40. 40. Mandi commented:

      Wed 27/4/11, 10:08 pm

      I’m not going to repeat just about what every person above has said. Only that I had “heard” the song somewhere (probably in Family Christian) and wanted to know what it was. I looked up the song list on a popular Vampire Diaries site and it lead me to finding out more about your music. The day I found it, I downloaded the CD and felt the urge to let my mom listen to “Family Tree”. My mom is 64 and I’m 29 and both of us have dysfunctional pasts that we are both trying to recover from and even though my mom can’t tell me the details yet, the song has a significance to something God wants her to do. It’s amazing when God lets you be a vessel! Who knows what this song has done to the un-reached who just so happen to watch TVD. God works in mysterious ways. HIS wonders to perform!!!

      Thanks for sharing you music and heart!

    41. 41. Lisa commented:

      Tue 24/5/11, 8:59 am

      It is great that the Lord can take Christian Music to reach via a Secular TV show or film. We are to reach out to the World but not have Fellowship with it. “Family Tree” is an anthem for leaving the past behind and having the courage to change. I love it.

    42. 42. Serenity Bohon commented:

      Fri 4/11/11, 11:06 am

      I was watching this show online and was so amazed to hear your song. I heard you perform it live at the Chicago STORY conference this year, so I recognized it immediately. The song fit perfectly in the context. The show may be make-believe, but the beautiful thing about it is that your song is the answer to something so real. Teens who watch this show will definitely have gotten that message. This is why I love storytelling so much.

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