I don’t disagree about U2 and many others besides. The difference is that U2’s references are subtle, Big Star’s more religious songs were not covert at all. And you’re assuming that I claim that ALL record companies did this. It could have been one person at Columbia, or I could be completely wrong. It’s simply my belief based on eliminating all other relevant factors.
Titling a song, "Yahweh" is subtle? Or turning Psalm 40 into a song titled, "40" is subtle?
I'd hate to see what you call "overt"!
:-)