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Hozier has revealed that the controversial subject matter of his breakthrough hit 'Take Me To Church' has led many angry pastors to write open letters to him.
The massive, searing folk-rock number has won Hozier fame around the world and atop the charts. Speaking to Gigwise about the religious nature of the track, Hozier described it as "an indictment of institutions that undermine humanity". Speaking of the video, he told us that it was inspired by the recent Russian smear campaign against homosexuality, which "put it in line with bestiality and paedophilia."
Now, in a new interview with The Guardian, Hozier reveals that many religious figures have taken offence at the song.
"I didn’t receive any backlash in Ireland," said Hozier. "The message went under the radar until it was in the charts. It was released the same year as the Murphy report and the Ryan report, so there weren’t too many people who were coming out swinging for the church. In America, I’ve never been approached or received hate mail, but I’ve had a few delightful open letters from pastors who have a few choice words to say.
"But the song isn’t about Baptist or evangelical Christianity, it references more the Catholic church."
Speaking of the runaway success of 'Take Me To Church', he added: "I don’t know, I go back and forth over it. It wasn’t an overnight smash, it grew steadily over the space of about a year. I tried to be as honest as possible with the lyrics and the production has a choral energy to it, kind of a gospel feel, which adds a lift."
Watch Hozier explain the meaning behind 'Take Me To Church' below
Hozier is touring the UK and Europe through May, June and July. For tickets and information, visit here.
