The message behind the music starts with the name for the Birmingham-based Christian rock band Nine Lashes.
“The name came from the whip that they used on Jesus during the crucifixion, and it’s a reminder of everything that He went through for us and the intense level of torture that He endured to save us,” lead singer Jeremy Dunn said. “We thought the name would be a good conversation starter. When people ask what it means, we are able to share what we’re all about and tell about our living hope that endures and His sacrifice for us.”
More than having a passion for music, the group has a desire to see lives changed for God’s glory.
The group enjoys interacting with students and providing opportunities for them to experience the gospel message being lived out through authentic relationships.
“Psalm 119 has really spoken to me about our purpose,” Dunn said. “It’s the longest chapter and right in the center of the Bible. This chapter really clicked with me about a love for the Word of God and His promises. It talks about His Word being such a sure thing that you can build your life on. It really spoke volumes to me and reminded me of the importance of having a daily relationship with Him and spending time in His Word.”
Steadfast commitment
Wherever the group performs, they offer more than a concert. They hope to provide students and young adults with a life-changing encounter.
As the group maintains a busy touring schedule performing in concert venues and Christian music festivals around the country, they remain committed to the music, mission and message that will help connect students to Christ.
Dunn feels strongly about leading teenagers to Christ because it was his profession of faith in Christ that led to creating Nine Lashes.
“I hope people leave our concerts being drawn closer to God,” Dunn said. “If they don’t already have a relationship with Christ, our prayer is that there is a stirring in their heart to find out more about Him and a desire to have a personal relationship with Him. For those who are already believers, we hope they are encouraged to go deeper in their walk with Him.”
With their new album, “Ascend,” the group wanted to focus on rich imagery while inspiring students to pursue Christ.
“For this album we really wanted to focus on the theme of having a relationship with Christ and the hope of eternity,” Dunn said. “When I’m working on new songs, I often get a picture in my mind of the story that I’m sharing. Lately what’s been on my mind a lot is Christ’s return and how amazing it’s going to be to meet our Savior.
“I took that picture in my mind and ran with it to create these songs. Hopefully people are connecting with these songs, and there’s an eagerness and longing to see our Savior face to face.”
The group is encouraged and inspired by the testimonies of students who are finding hope and healing as a result of these songs.
“We love being able to make a difference in people’s lives and hearing the testimonies,” Dunn said. “Each night we’ve had kids come up to us who have shared about their thoughts of suicide and have told us that our songs helped get them through those dark times and offered hope and a way out.
“That’s the most incredible and humbling thing — to know that the Lord is using these songs to make a difference in someone’s life and they find encouragement and the strength to go on. It’s been huge to see the impact of how the music is reaching people. It’s such a God thing.”
By Leann Callaway
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