Lecrae tells his story of abuse, drugs and depression in new book

Grammy Award-winning Christian rapper Lecrae is to release a new book including details of his experience of childhood abuse and his struggles with drugs, alcoholism and depression.

The emphasis of the book, Unashamed, will be on remaining faithful to God and what it means to be a Christian in a sceptical world.

"As an artist, my ambition is to make honest music, and I feel the same way about writing this book," Lecrae said in a statement.

"I want to be honest about where I've come from and what I've learned along the way. I want to influence culture, to help catalyze and inspire, and help other people find understanding. If they find some inspiration and some clarity for their own lives, as they follow my journey, then I will have succeeded."

Speaking in September to Rapzilla.com in September he said that he wanted the book to show people "why I believe what I believe" and hoped that his testimony would also speak to non-Christians.

He added he would write about his principles, including why he feels Christians should be engaging with culture, "establishing His kingdom in every area," not just for the Christian market.

Unashamed is set to be published by B&H publishers in May next year.

Jennifer Lyell of B&H said: "We are thrilled to partner with an artist of the creative caliber as Lecrae. His ability to communicate a message that gives hope and compels toward greater faithfulness will undoubtedly result in a game changing book for individuals and ultimately for the broader culture."

Lecrae is currently on The Anomaly Tour, with the album for which he won Top Christian Album at the Billboard Music Awards on Sunday.

related articles
Lecrae: \'We\'ve limited Christianity to salvation and sanctification\'
Lecrae: 'We've limited Christianity to salvation and sanctification'

Lecrae: 'We've limited Christianity to salvation and sanctification'

Carrie Underwood sends hand-written notes, necklaces to 11 American Idol hopefuls
Carrie Underwood sends hand-written notes, necklaces to 11 American Idol hopefuls

Carrie Underwood sends hand-written notes, necklaces to 11 American Idol hopefuls

Christian rapper Lecrae credits God for success
Christian rapper Lecrae credits God for success

Christian rapper Lecrae credits God for success

Musician Jenn Bostic: \'If I didn\'t have God in my life I don\'t think I\'d be in this industry\'
Musician Jenn Bostic: 'If I didn't have God in my life I don't think I'd be in this industry'

Musician Jenn Bostic: 'If I didn't have God in my life I don't think I'd be in this industry'

Lecrae says people shouldn\'t feel like they have to \'manicure\' their public image
Lecrae says people shouldn't feel like they have to 'manicure' their public image

Lecrae says people shouldn't feel like they have to 'manicure' their public image

News
Pope seeks prayers for peace in Christmas Day message
Pope seeks prayers for peace in Christmas Day message

The Pope asked people to pray in particular for the "tormented people of Ukraine" in his Christmas Day 'Urbi et Orbi' message. 

Who was St Stephen and why is he remembered on December 26?
Who was St Stephen and why is he remembered on December 26?

The carol says, “Good King Wenceslas last looked out on the Feast of Stephen.” In many countries, December 26, also known as Boxing Day, is better known as St Stephen’s Day. Stephen was the first Christian martyr. This is the story …

King Charles reflects on pilgrimage, reconciliation and hope in Christmas Day address
King Charles reflects on pilgrimage, reconciliation and hope in Christmas Day address

King Charles III used his Christmas Day speech to reflect on the significance of pilgrimage as he appealed to the nation "to cherish the values of compassion and reconciliation". 

2 Timothy 3:16 is Logos' Bible verse of the year, Matthew was the most studied book
2 Timothy 3:16 is Logos' Bible verse of the year, Matthew was the most studied book

One of the most-studied Bible verses of the year is from 2 Timothy in the New Testament, according to an analysis of millions of Bible study sessions that tracked how believers worldwide are engaging with Scripture.