AKWABOAH JNR SLAMS GOSPEL INDUSTRY’S BIAS AGAINST SECULAR ARTISTS: “JUDGE MUSIC BY ITS CONTENT, NOT THE ARTIST’S BACKGROUND”

Ghanaian musician and songwriter Akwaboah Jnr has sparked a heated debate in the music industry with his criticism of the gospel community’s bias against secular artists. In a video posted on his social media pages, the multiple award-winning artist shared his personal experience of being shunned by the gospel fraternity despite his contributions to the genre.

Akwaboah Jnr recounted his collaboration with the group TY Crew, where he wrote and was featured on one of their songs. However, the gospel community was reluctant to embrace the song solely because of his association with secular music. This experience led him to question the double standards within the gospel industry, where songs are judged based on the artist’s background rather than the content of the music itself.

The ‘I do Love You’ hitmaker pointed to instances where secular artists have written hit gospel songs that were accepted when performed by recognized gospel musicians. He cited his own work, noting that he wrote ‘Meto Ndwom’ for Kofi Sarpong, which became a big hit. However, he questioned whether the song would have been played in churches if Kwami Eugene had been featured on it instead.

Akwaboah Jnr also mentioned similar situations involving other artists, such as Kwabena Kwabena, who wrote songs for Ohemaa Mercy that were played in churches, while his own gospel-inspired tracks were overlooked. He further questioned the selective acceptance of music in religious and social settings, asking, “Since when did this become an issue? During weddings, don’t they play love songs even if it’s in a pastor’s house? Why the fake life?”

The singer-songwriter is calling for a shift in mindset within the gospel community, urging that songs be judged by their lyrical content rather than the artist’s background. He concluded, “Let’s embrace everybody irrespective of their history and focus on the message in the music.” Akwaboah Jnr’s comments have sparked a lively debate on social media, with many weighing in on the issue.

As the conversation continues, it remains to be seen whether the gospel industry will take Akwaboah Jnr’s words to heart and adopt a more inclusive approach. One thing is certain, however: the singer-songwriter’s critique has shone a light on the need for greater acceptance and understanding within the music industry.

Akwaboah Jnr’s experience is not an isolated incident, and his comments have resonated with many secular artists who have faced similar challenges. By speaking out, he hopes to bring about a change in attitude and promote greater collaboration between secular and gospel artists.

As the music industry continues to evolve, it is clear that Akwaboah Jnr’s message of inclusivity and acceptance is one that resonates with many. By judging music on its content rather than the artist’s background, we can create a more vibrant and diverse musical landscape that celebrates talent and creativity in all its forms.

Source: Africa Publicity