Skillet’s new take on the classic hymn “O Come, O Come Emmanuel” has sparked a wave of conversation across Christian and rock circles. The band’s first official Christmas release starts with a traditional, piano driven arrangement before building into the kind of hard rock intensity fans expect from Skillet. As the song quickly gained traction on streaming platforms and social media, some critics pushed back, calling the arrangement too dark and accusing the band of mishandling a beloved hymn.
In several recent interviews and online comments, frontman John Cooper has addressed the backlash directly. Cooper has made it clear that he is not angry with those who dislike the track or even those who label it “satanic.” He has talked about growing up in a home where rock music was viewed with suspicion and says he understands that many critics genuinely believe they are protecting something sacred. Because of that, he has emphasized that he is not interested in attacking or mocking people who are uncomfortable with Skillet’s sound.
At the same time, Cooper has firmly defended the band’s creative choices. He has pointed to Skillet’s long history of openly sharing their faith on stage and hearing from listeners who say the band’s music helped them through addiction, doubt, or deep personal struggle. For Cooper, that track record is part of why he is not shaken by harsh online reactions. He has suggested that the controversy does not slow Skillet down, but instead reinforces their sense of calling to keep making the kind of music they believe they are meant to create.
A major point of tension has been the heavy shift in the middle of the song. After a reverent opening, the arrangement erupts into pounding drums, huge guitars, and a metal style breakdown. Some online voices have argued that this turn makes the hymn feel sinister. Cooper’s response has focused on the idea that music itself is not inherently evil. He has said in past conversations that all sound ultimately belongs to God and that what matters is the intent and message behind it, not the volume or distortion level. In his view, Skillet’s aggressive sound is being used to highlight the weight of spiritual longing and the hope at the heart of the hymn’s lyrics.
Cooper has also stressed that the styling of “O Come, O Come Emmanuel” fits perfectly with the sound and brand Skillet has built over decades. The band is known for blending cinematic hard rock with explicit Christian themes, dramatic dynamics, and big choruses. This new recording follows that same pattern, starting in a familiar worship setting and then moving into the kind of explosive, high energy section longtime fans expect. Rather than being a departure, Cooper presents the track as Skillet bringing a historic hymn into their own musical language.
The reaction around the song has once again raised the broader debate about what styles of music are acceptable for faith based content. John Cooper’s comments over the past few days make his position clear. He respects that not everyone will like Skillet’s approach, but he stands by the decision to record “O Come, O Come Emmanuel” in a way that sounds unmistakably like Skillet. For him, the song is not about shock value. It is about pairing ancient words with the band’s signature sound and trusting listeners to decide whether it resonates with them.