News Summary
LSU baseball player Derek Curiel expressed his disappointment after the NCAA banned his walk-up song, ‘God Is’ by Kanye West, at the College World Series. Instead, only the instrumental was allowed, raising questions over the NCAA’s decision, seemingly influenced by West’s controversies rather than its content. Curiel emphasized the personal significance of the song’s message, which aligns with his Christian faith. This incident has sparked backlash and criticism from officials who believe the NCAA should reconsider its music policy and the implications of its decisions on athletes’ personal expressions.
Baton Rouge, Louisiana – LSU baseball star Derek Curiel expressed disappointment that his walk-up song, “God Is” by Kanye West, was not permitted at the College World Series. Instead of the full version, only the instrumental was played during the event. This situation arose as the NCAA has faced scrutiny for the decision, which many suspect was influenced by West’s ongoing controversies rather than the song’s Christian content.
Curiel, who achieved impressive stats of .345 with 20 doubles, seven home runs, and 55 RBIs during the season, aired his frustrations in an interview after LSU secured its eighth national championship. He indicated that the message of his chosen song, particularly a Bible verse from Psalm 150 Verse 6, holds personal significance for him. Curiel aims to be known as a baseball player who embraces his Christian faith, highlighting that his main objective is to honor Christ through his actions on and off the field.
Alongside Curiel, LSU pitcher Kade Anderson also found his walk-out song, “All of the Lights,” by Kanye West, banned due to similar reasons. Sources revealed that the ban was explicitly linked to Kanye West’s image rather than any religious connotations of the music.
The NCAA’s banning of these songs has prompted backlash from various quarters, with some officials publicly criticizing the decision. Notably, a Louisiana Attorney General denounced the choice as a “terrible call,” suggesting that the NCAA owes an apology to Curiel and others affected by this ruling.
Curiel’s earlier seasons had seen his walk-up song approved, contributing to questions regarding the timing of the NCAA’s strict application of its policies during the College World Series. Initially, Curiel speculated that the ban resulted from the song’s Christian message. His social media responses reflected confusion over whether the NCAA’s concern was faith-related or purely about the artist’s controversial status.
Throughout his college career, Curiel has positioned himself as a role model within the LSU community, consistently emphasizing the influence of his faith on his life. In previous statements, he has shared how his confidence is rooted in his relationship with God and expressed aspirations to glorify Him in all endeavors.
As LSU celebrated its championship victory, the incident ignited discussions regarding the NCAA’s policies on music used at sporting events. The focus on Curiel’s choice has highlighted the often complex intersection of athletics, personal beliefs, and institutional regulations within collegiate sports. This event underscores a growing dialogue about the impact of public figures, their controversies, and how they influence organizational decisions within sports.
As more information and opinions surface, the ongoing evaluation of the NCAA’s music policy may lead to changes in how walk-up songs are chosen and permitted in future events.
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Additional Resources
- LSU Reveille
- Wikipedia: NCAA
- SI.com
- Google Search: LSU baseball walk-up songs
- PennLive
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Music
- On3.com
- Google News: NCAA walk-up songs ban
