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DailyKenn.com — Michael Tait has "fallen from grace" — or has been tumbling from grace over the past two decades — reports say.
Tait is known for his hip-hop version of Christian music and, like those before him, seems to emit the sulfuric smell of hypocrisy more than the subsequent sins of touching men and substance abuse.
Tait confessed after he got caught. Don't we all.
Some know him as a black-conservative Trump backer. Others know him as the brother of gospel music notable, Lynda Tait Randle.
Here's the wrap (or rap):
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Michael DeWayne Tait, 59, the former frontman of Christian rock bands DC Talk and the Newsboys, publicly confessed June 10 to living a “double life” for more than two decades. In an Instagram statement, he admitted to extensive cocaine and alcohol abuse, and acknowledged “at times, touched men in an unwanted sensual way,” saying the accusations “are largely true” but that he disputes some details. (Christianity Today)
The confession followed a June 13 investigation by The Guardian, in which three men alleged sexual assault by Tait during the early 2000s—two saying they were drugged before being molested, and one alleging the assault occurred when he was 13. Four additional individuals reported incidents of unwanted touching. (The Guardian)
Following the revelations, the Newsboys were dropped by Capitol Christian Music Group, multiple radio stations pulled their music, and tour dates were cancelled. Bandmate Adam Agee, who replaced Tait in January, announced the label drop at a concert in Scottsdale, Arizona, calling it “devastating” for the band, families and children. (The Guardian)
Industry Response
Hayley Williams of Paramore publicly denounced the Christian music industry for “enabling” Tait and ignoring queer voices, stating it “profited off of vulnerable individuals while failing to support LGBTQ+ people.” Other artists, including Michael Sweet and Darren King, criticized the broader culture that allowed Tait’s behavior to persist unchecked. (Entertainment Weekly)
Hayley Williams of Paramore publicly denounced the Christian music industry for “enabling” Tait and ignoring queer voices, stating it “profited off of vulnerable individuals while failing to support LGBTQ+ people.” Other artists, including Michael Sweet and Darren King, criticized the broader culture that allowed Tait’s behavior to persist unchecked. (Entertainment Weekly)
Tait’s Statement & Aftermath
In his confession, Tait described himself as “ashamed” for deceiving fans, friends, and fellow musicians, affirming he won’t shift blame. He said he has “been on a path to health, healing, and wholeness” since his abrupt departure from Newsboys in January, which he attributed to seeking help. He noted six weeks in a Utah treatment center and claimed sobriety since his exit. (KBTX) Tait asked for privacy in his healing process while expressing regret for harm caused, though he acknowledged he may not deserve forgiveness. (The Daily Beast)
In his confession, Tait described himself as “ashamed” for deceiving fans, friends, and fellow musicians, affirming he won’t shift blame. He said he has “been on a path to health, healing, and wholeness” since his abrupt departure from Newsboys in January, which he attributed to seeking help. He noted six weeks in a Utah treatment center and claimed sobriety since his exit. (KBTX) Tait asked for privacy in his healing process while expressing regret for harm caused, though he acknowledged he may not deserve forgiveness. (The Daily Beast)
Broader Implications
The scandal has triggered scrutiny of the evangelical Christian music scene, exposing a culture that championed moral purity while allegedly turning a blind eye to misconduct. Critics say Tait’s long-term association with conservative politics and Christian nationalism made the allegations feel “especially stark and hypocritical.” (OurMidland)
The scandal has triggered scrutiny of the evangelical Christian music scene, exposing a culture that championed moral purity while allegedly turning a blind eye to misconduct. Critics say Tait’s long-term association with conservative politics and Christian nationalism made the allegations feel “especially stark and hypocritical.” (OurMidland)
Next Steps
No criminal charges have been filed. Meanwhile, the remaining Newsboys are encouraging any other victims to come forward. Industry peers and survivors are calling for accountability and systemic change—especially within institutions that allowed these behaviors to remain hidden.
No criminal charges have been filed. Meanwhile, the remaining Newsboys are encouraging any other victims to come forward. Industry peers and survivors are calling for accountability and systemic change—especially within institutions that allowed these behaviors to remain hidden.
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