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As reported in the Christian media outlet The Roys Report, three men who allege they were sexually assaulted by a high-profile Christian music star are now speaking out publicly after years of silence, with the goal of exposing a widespread culture of abuse and cover-up in evangelical circles, particularly within the Christian music industry.
The men say they were groomed and sexually assaulted by Michael Tait, former lead singer of the Grammy-nominated Christian rock group Newsboys. After decades of silence, two of the survivors—both music industry professionals—have stepped forward to share their stories and seek justice, not just for themselves, but for others they believe may have also been harmed.
The allegations against Tait span over two decades and involve multiple accusers who say they were sexually assaulted after being groomed, manipulated, or drugged. According to The Roys Report and The Guardian, Tait is accused of sexually assaulting at least three men between 2004 and 2014, two of whom say they were assaulted while unconscious.
One of the men was reportedly 16 at the time. Several others allege unwanted touching, lewd behavior, and sexual misconduct in both public and private settings. In a public statement, Tait admitted to “reckless and destructive behavior” involving drug and alcohol abuse and unwanted sensual contact with men. He did not dispute the substance of the accusations, though he claimed he might differ on specific details. Tait resigned from Newsboys in early 2025 and is currently the subject of a preliminary investigation by Brentwood, Tennessee police, who are reportedly seeking additional potential victims.
Rather than stay silent, two of the men have channeled their trauma into advocacy through a new platform called Coalition Reloaded. The initiative uses original music and survivor outreach to call attention to abuse within the church and the Christian entertainment industry. The founders describe the project as both a form of ministry and a vehicle for accountability.
“Abuse in the church, in government, and in society has been ignored for too long,” said one of the survivors. “Our goal is to shine light into dark places, even if it ruffles feathers.”
Coalition Reloaded offers more than music. The platform serves as a resource hub for survivors, connecting them with mental health services, coping tools, suicide prevention hotlines, and in some cases, law enforcement. The founders say they are in contact with Brentwood, Tennessee police, who are conducting a preliminary investigation into Tait.
“We think this is an opportunity to protect God’s people,” said one of the founders. “Churches have an opportunity to be a partner with Coalition Reloaded. It will cost them nothing to help encourage the songwriter and the many survivors.”
The group’s debut release, an extended play titled Victim #8, features three tracks chronicling one survivor’s experience of assault and survival. “I was the eighth person to come forward about the sexual assault by Michael Tait,” he said. “Carrying that number felt significant. It’s not just a label, it’s a testament to courage, survival, and the weight of speaking up.”
While both founders previously enjoyed mainstream success in Christian music—including collaborations with artists like Toby Mac and song placements on K-LOVE and VeggieTales—they say Coalition Reloaded takes a radically different approach. The sound is raw, emotionally charged, and intentionally confrontational.
“We chose not to soften the music because this isn’t about chasing radio play; it’s about truth,” said one of the musicians. “The music is meant to challenge, awaken, and push people toward accountability and healing, not to play it safe.”
They’ve also begun collaborating with other artists, including a vocalist nominated for New Artist of the Year at the 2025 Dove Awards. She contributed to the track “Rebuild,” and more collaborations are planned. Meanwhile, the founders continue to operate the project on a shoestring budget, using AI production tools and volunteer labor in hopes of securing a music publishing deal that could fund their advocacy long-term.
In an exclusive track titled “Followers,” the emotional toll of backlash from within the evangelical community is laid bare. “If truth is a fire, let me ignite, even if they curse me for being the light,” one of them sings.
Despite the risk to their reputations and livelihoods, both survivors say the stakes are too high to remain silent. “I still choose to speak out because somebody has to,” said one. “Too often, when victims come forward, their stories get swept under the rug. People in the church say, ‘The church should deal with it,’ but when criminal acts are committed—especially rape, especially involving minors—it’s not just a church matter. It needs to go to the authorities. Silence only protects abusers, not victims.”
If you or someone you know has been sexually abused by a religious leader or within a faith-based community, help is available. SurvivorsRights.com offers resources and connections to legal professionals who understand the complexities of institutional abuse. You are not alone and you have rights.
Learn more by reading our Institutional Sexual Abuse Lawsuit Guide. You may also share your story confidentially and find out whether you qualify for a potential settlement. When you’re ready, fill out the secure form for a free case review.
