Broadcast Journalist Ayo’ Emmanuel-Ojo, Head of Programs at Wells Radio Ibadan, has sparked a conversation about the state of gospel music today, expressing concern over the increasing influence of secular trends in the genre. In a personal reflection shared with the station, Emmanuel-Ojo, a self-proclaimed lover of gospel music, lamented the rise of what he calls “ungodly gospel music.”
Emmanuel-Ojo, who also works as an event MC, notes his appreciation for various musical genres, but emphasizes his deep connection to gospel music, citing its ability to draw him closer to God. He recounts a personal decision to be more selective about the music he consumes, choosing to prioritize lyrics and messages that align with his faith.
His primary concern stems from the trend of gospel artists adopting stylistic elements from street culture, including lyrics, expressions, and dance moves. He cites a specific example of a well-known gospel artist performing a dance that mimicked rolling marijuana, questioning the artist’s awareness of the implications and suggesting a potential disconnect between their actions and their professed ministry.
While advocating for gospel entertainment at social events like weddings and birthdays, Emmanuel-Ojo insists that the glorification of Jesus must remain paramount.
He argues against the mixing of Christian themes with what he considers profane or vulgar elements. “You cannot mix Jesus with profanity, vulgar dance steps, or questionable expressions and still call it gospel entertainment,” he writes. He suggests that artists who choose this path should remove the name of Jesus from their work.
Emmanuel-Ojo expresses particular worry about the inclusion of such artists in revival meetings, questioning the authenticity of such gatherings. He raises fundamental questions about the definition of a gospel minister and a gospel artist, emphasizing the need for decorum, reverence, and holiness in the genre.
His statement reads, “The State of Gospel Music Today: A Personal Reflection
I have always been a lover of good music across different genres. By nature, I am more of an introvert, but due to the nature of my work, I’ve learned to embrace the extroverted side of me. Interestingly, some of my friends argue that I didn’t “learn” it; they believe I’ve always been somewhere in between both temperaments.
As an event MC, I particularly enjoy juju music and live bands,perhaps because I grew up with a father who loved King Sunny Ade (KSA), Chief Ebenezer Obey, and the rest. However, above all genres, gospel music remains my favorite. As a Christian, I long for melodies and sounds that draw me closer to God.
Years ago, I made a personal decision to take seriously the biblical instruction to “guard my heart with all diligence.” At that point, I deliberately stopped listening to many secular artists I once enjoyed. This decision wasn’t just about faith; I took my time to examine the lyrics, the message, and the lifestyle being promoted. I realized that many of these songs did not align with the direction I wanted my life to go. Music is spiritual, it has the power to overwhelm a person within minutes.
My Main Concern: The Rise of “Ungodly Gospel Music”
It is truly heartbreaking to see the direction gospel music is heading today. Many so-called gospel artists are borrowing trends from the streets not just in sound but in lyrics, expressions, and even dance moves. Just before writing this, I came across a video of a well-celebrated gospel artist dancing in a way that mimicked how street boys roll weed.
I don’t want to assume he was unaware of the implications of his moves. But if he truly didn’t know, it only exposes the emptiness of his so-called “craft” and “ministry” if ministry is even the right word to use.
Now, I am a strong advocate of gospel entertainment. Yes, we need gospel artists who can perform at weddings, birthdays, and social events for those who desire wholesome alternatives. However, even in the name of entertainment, Jesus must still be glorified!. You cannot mix Jesus with profanity, vulgar dance steps, or questionable expressions and still call it gospel entertainment. If that’s what you want to do, please remove Jesus’ name and just enjoy your life !
Where Jesus is involved, there must be a level of decorum, reverence, and holiness. I truly wish I were speaking about this instead of writing because words alone cannot capture my burden.
While I believe in gospel entertainment for social events, I strongly oppose the extreme infusion of street culture into it. I am even more worried about ministers who invite these kinds of artists to revival meetings. Would such meetings still be a revival?
At the end of the day, we must ask:
– Who is a gospel minister?
– Who is a gospel artist?
Jesus cannot be compromised. You can’t be dancing like you’re “rolling weed” today and be blasting in tongues tomorrow. It is confusing!
Am I the only one concerned about this trend?
Let me hear your thoughts in the comments.
– Ayo’ Emmanuel-Ojo
2025-02-22