FEATURING SECULAR MUSICIANS ON GOSPEL SONGS IS JUST ‘NOISE’ – Gospel Singer Mavis Asante
Gospel artiste Mavis Asante has sparked fresh debate in Ghana’s music industry with her strong disapproval of collaborations between gospel and secular musicians, describing such partnerships as mere “noise” that dilute the core message of gospel music.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Graphic Showbiz on Monday, April 28, the “Victory” hitmaker was emphatic in her stance, stating that gospel musicians carry a divine mandate that should not be mixed with secular interests.
“First and foremost, what is the purpose and reason behind such a collaboration? Is it for fame? To win souls? For hype and recognition or what?” she queried.
Drawing an analogy, Mavis stressed that each calling is unique and should not be compromised: “Just as a lawyer can’t be called to perform surgery, no matter how intelligent or famous he might be and vice versa — a surgeon cannot defend anyone in court. I believe we are two different people doing two different things.”
Ghana’s music scene has witnessed several high-profile gospel-secular collaborations over the years, including Bebree by Herty Borngreat and Sarkodie, The Lord’s Prayer by Joyce Blessing and AB Crentsil, Ahobrase by Yaw Sarpong featuring Sarkodie, and Boys Boys by Nacee and Guru. While such tracks have enjoyed popularity, Mavis Asante insists they stray from the true purpose of gospel music.
“The mission of secular artistes does not align with that of gospel musicians, whose primary focus is on God, salvation, and spiritual growth,” she said.
“These collaborations only create confusion and, in my view, do nothing to enhance the gospel message. I’ll term it as ‘noise’ in Mass Communication.”
She further advised gospel musicians seeking wider reach to explore collaborations within the gospel fraternity instead of venturing into secular spaces.
“There are so many gospel artistes available for such collaborations. Before making that decision, I believe gospel musicians must pray, fast, and seek spiritual discernment. Sometimes, resisting the urge to feature a popular secular artiste honours God more than any big-name feature could ever do.”
Mavis Asante, who recently returned to the music scene with her new single Victory, is calling on gospel musicians to stay true to their calling, reminding them that impact should never come at the expense of spiritual integrity.
Source:NKONKONSA.com
