Run tha Funk Back with Eddy Puyol
Off the release of his new album Run Back Tha Funk Back For A Good Time, Eddy Puyol joins King Cyz on What It Iz What It Beez Like?! for an inspiring conversation about faith, family, and the evolution of Christian Hip-Hop. Known to longtime fans as Raw Servant, Puyol reflects on more than two decades in the game — from his early days of crunk-filled anthems to his current season of crafting “life music” that celebrates joy, authenticity, and God’s goodness. The reunion between these two CHH veterans feels like more than an interview — it’s a celebration of growth, creativity, and the kind of brotherhood that stands the test of time.
Evolving Sound, Unchanging Mission
Eddy’s journey has always been one of evolution without compromise. From the early 2000s days of Raw Servant to his current sound under his own name, Puyol has remained committed to crafting “life music”—songs that can live at family reunions, barbecues, and weddings while still carrying the heartbeat of faith. “I like to make records that play at the barbecue and at the wedding,” he says, reflecting on his desire to give believers music for every season of life.
That shift came naturally as life did what it does—grow. Now a husband, father, and coach, Puyol’s creative output reflects a matured worldview. “Out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks,” he tells Cyz. “So I’m diving into what’s real to me right now.” That means songs like those from his latest album Run the Funk Back for a Good Time, which blend faith, funk, and celebration into an unapologetically joyful soundtrack.
Pushing Boundaries in Christian Hip-Hop
When it comes to CHH, Eddy has never been afraid to push boundaries. “I’m still part of my family,” he insists. “I started in this game, I ain’t leaving. I’m just challenging a change.” From crunk and worship-infused rap to reggae and CCM-inspired collaborations, he’s proven that Christian music doesn’t have to be confined to one sound or one audience.
He and Cyz discuss the long-standing tension in the genre—how early CHH demanded constant “Bible-thumping” to be validated as Christian art. Eddy believes it’s time for that to evolve: “If the Bible has all kinds of topics, why can’t our art? We need party music. We need dance records. We need life.” His vision for CHH’s future isn’t rebellion—it’s restoration. It’s about making room for joy, diversity, and creativity under the same kingdom banner.
Faith Over Politics, Love Over Fear
The conversation takes a thoughtful turn as Cyz asks about faith in today’s polarized world. Puyol’s response is a masterclass in grace and balance. “Our differences are our differences, but our love shouldn’t change,” he says, recalling his family’s journey from Cuba to America. For him, political and cultural divides shouldn’t drown out the central mission: to love like Christ and represent Him through action, not argument.
That same heart carries into how he engages the world around him. “Fear can modify your behavior,” he shares, quoting his mentor Ed Elliott, “but love will change your heart.” For Eddy, evangelism isn’t about hammering theology—it’s about living in such a way that people see Christ in you. Whether on a flight, a stage, or a sideline, his presence sparks curiosity and connection.
Coaching, Calling, and Continuing the Legacy
These days, Puyol is doing more than making music—he’s shaping lives. As a coach at The King’s Academy in Florida, he’s found a new mission field in youth sports. What started as volunteering with his kids’ teams has become a deeper calling. “Impacting communities, that’s what it’s about,” he says. “Being the hands and feet of Jesus is a dirty job—but it’s worth it.”
His passion for mentorship echoes his vision for CHH’s next generation. “I’m proud of the young cats like Hulvey, Miles Minnick, and Tommy Zuko,” he tells Cyz. “We planted seeds, and now we’re watching the fruit.” As an OG, he sees his role as a bridge-builder—celebrating the progress while encouraging artists to keep stretching creatively and spiritually.
A Funky Future, Rooted in Faith
As the episode closes, Cyz celebrates his friend’s growth and lasting influence. Puyol’s latest project, Run the Funk Back for a Good Time, encapsulates everything they discussed—freedom, faith, and fun. It’s available on all streaming platforms, and it proves that Christian music can still make you dance while drawing you closer to God.
“I’m more on fire now than I was when I first came out swinging,” Eddy says with a smile. Two decades later, his passion hasn’t dimmed—it’s only deepened.
Because when you’ve seen God’s faithfulness up close, you can’t help but bring the funk back one more time.
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TIMESTAMPS
00:00 – Welcome to What It Iz What It Beez Like?! with King Cyz
01:00 – Reuniting after 20 years and reflecting on brotherhood
02:30 – How life shaped Eddy’s evolving sound and creative direction
04:20 – From Raw Servant to Eddy Puyol: embracing growth and change
06:00 – Why CHH needs more “life music” and less limitation
07:30 – Breaking boxes and expanding the Christian Hip-Hop sound
09:00 – Navigating politics, culture, and love in a divided world
11:00 – The power of authenticity: being real over being religious
13:20 – Love over fear: lessons that changed Eddy’s heart
15:00 – The future of CHH and celebrating the new generation
17:30 – Coaching as ministry: impacting kids and communities
20:30 – Faith, family, and finding purpose off the stage
23:00 – The story behind Run the Funk Back for a Good Time
24:30 – King Cyz’s final thoughts and celebrating CHH unity
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