In today’s world, there are few bands that merge raw heaviness with genuine honesty like XIII Minutes from Tulsa, Oklahoma. Since their formation in late 2015, the group has developed a distinctive style – crushing riffs interwoven with deep, often spiritual reflection that resonates with listeners searching for catharsis and truth. Their 2019 album Obsessed was a breakthrough, proving the band’s ability to combine heaviness and melody with themes of inner struggle, truth, and redemption. Among its standout tracks was “Who Told You?” – a song confronting the lies we tell ourselves and the chaos of modern culture.
In 2025, XIII Minutes return with a newly intensified version of this hit, released via NRT Music – a label known for championing faith-driven artists. This reinterpretation sharpens the edges of the original, adding more grit and greater impact. The new version reflects both the band’s artistic growth and the pressing relevance of its theme in an era marked by misinformation and social division.
The origin and meaning of “Who Told You?”
“Who Told You?” was written by founding members Jamie Kucinski, Aaron Smith, and Michael Rowley. First appearing on Obsessed in 2019, it quickly became one of the album’s cornerstones, known for its raw honesty and brutal presence. Critics praised the fusion of crushing guitar riffs with dynamic vocals balancing screams and melodic passages, making it resonate with fans of both heavy metal and more mainstream rock. The lyrics explored lies, identity struggles, and deception – themes that remain especially relevant today.
The success of “Who Told You?” cemented XIII Minutes’ position within Christian hard rock and metal, leading to appearances at festivals such as Exodo Festival in Mexico and Kingdom Come Festival in Indiana. Fans embraced the authenticity and healing quality of the band’s message.
A new chapter with NRT Music
After a brief hiatus and personal changes, XIII Minutes returned in 2022 with renewed energy and signed with NRT Music. This partnership opened new artistic opportunities while allowing the band to stay true to their foundation – lifting up messages of perseverance and faith. Their first single under the NRT Music banner was “Stay” in March 2025, which revealed a new facet of the band: still powerful, but with broader musical horizons.
The release of the reimagined “Who Told You?” in August 2025 became a defining moment. The current lineup – Jerrod Cunningham on vocals, Thomas Wheat on guitar and backing vocals, and Jamie Kucinski on drums – combines experience with fresh energy. Their musical chemistry is evident in the layers of sound and the strength of their message.
Sound and vision in the 2025 version
The new take on “Who Told You?” delivers sharper, more aggressive guitar riffs, thunderous drums, and vocals that shift effortlessly between screams and melodic passages. The production balances polish with raw intensity, reflecting the best of modern heavy music.
The lyrics challenge listeners to reflect on the origins of the lies we accept as truth – the accusations and deceptions that distort our sense of identity. It’s a call to awareness, urging us to resist both external influences and internal self-deceptions. This theme resonates powerfully in an era of social media noise, fake news, and cultural division.
The official music video, available on YouTube, amplifies the message through striking imagery of confrontation, isolation, and ultimate liberation. Its visual narrative highlights the struggle against lies and the search for truth – a message with universal appeal.
Critical and fan response
The 2025 version of “Who Told You?” has been met with positive reviews from both critics and fans. Many highlight the band’s musical evolution while praising the song’s refreshed energy and timeless message. Listeners note that it bridges nostalgia with modern relevance, uniting the band’s past and present in one powerful statement.
The Obsessed album had already earned acclaim for blending brutality with melody and spiritual depth. Tracks like “Blue Flame” and “Water Vice” were singled out for technical precision and emotional impact. This success solidified XIII Minutes’ place in the metal scene, reinforced by their later releases and live performances.
Live shows and festivals
XIII Minutes are renowned for their energetic, passion-filled live shows. Their appearances at major events such as Exodo Festival in Mexico, Lifest in Oshkosh, The 107.1 KOUJ Block Party in Norman, and Kingdom Come Festival in Indiana prove their ability to engage audiences and create unforgettable experiences.
Their stage presence is a space where musical intensity meets authentic storytelling, attracting diverse crowds and building a loyal fanbase that values honesty and strength of message.
Evolution and future plans
From their debut to the present, XIII Minutes have navigated lineup changes and artistic growth with resilience and passion. Their collaboration with NRT Music marks an important step forward in expanding their reach while staying true to their mission. This partnership enables them to combine professionalism with purpose-driven creativity.
Looking ahead, XIII Minutes plan to release more singles that inspire and provoke thought, alongside tours that will connect them with new and longtime fans. Their trajectory points toward greater artistic expression and a stronger role within the Christian and alternative metal scenes.
Conclusion: Music as a tool of truth and healing
The reissue of “Who Told You?” is more than just a refreshed track – it’s a reaffirmation of XIII Minutes’ mission to confront lies and promote healing through art. Combining technical skill with deep lyrical content, the band offers a powerful platform for listeners seeking authenticity in a noisy world.
Their journey, fueled by passion and purpose, demonstrates that music remains a force capable of uniting, healing, and inspiring. XIII Minutes are certain to resonate with fans for years to come.