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Cross Factor
Ashley Baptiste's sudden departure from X Factor boyband, The Risk, sparked some speculation last month. We asked this talented Micah member about taking a stand and what's next
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Ashley as a Cambridge University undergraduate |
What motivated you to try out for the X Factor?
World stardom, power, world domination. Just kidding! I kind of feel like music is something that I'm really passionate about, and there are two types of theology within the Church regarding gifts. The first is that you must use your gifts for God and God alone, and the second is that you should use your gifts to be a light to the world.
I think that the Church generally lacks cultural power, and it's really important that we try and get some. This was my way of doing that.
Do you feel that while you were there that you succeeded in doing that?
I felt that my presence alone was standing up for something different - even just sharing who I was with the band. I didn't quit because the environment was harsh; I just realised that you have to be really prayerful.
Why did you decide to quit the band?
There were so many reasons! Firstly it was about commitment. I could see that it wasn't just committing to the show, but that it was committing to three guys, a label and a vision. I thought that, because I was at uni and had so many different opportunties I couldn't make that commitment.
That was the main reason. It was also about being in a boyband, which wasn't about advancing the kingdom. It was all about promoting ourselves and I didn't want to be part of somehting that wasn't promoting something that was bigger than myself or the band.
I also had a really powerful dream that helped me make the decision.
The Risk has been voted off now. How do you feel about that?
Absolutely devastated! Obviously the change of members had an impact, but you can't take that burden on. You just have to focus on doing the right thing.
I think there are so many commercial boybands out there. The X Factor especially put together four different commercial bands for the competition. There might be a lesson for X Factor there, but I'm gutted for The Risk.
Are you still in touch with members of the band?
I am. I spoke to Charlie today, and I'm going to the X Factor studios this Saturday. I have a good relationship with the X Factor crew.
Finally, you're taking some time off. What's next for you, and how can we pray for you?
I don't know what's next. I have some amazing opportunities in the music industry, and have had some opportunities open up in politics and overseas as well. Pray that God will give me clarity as to which direction to go in.
I've learnt many lessons and I just want to be like Christ in everything that I do - as we all should.
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