Gospel music not for entertainment

WHILE critics have described Gospel concerts as looking more like crusades and not entertaining enough, Gospel singer Esther Godwyll has come to their defence and boldly says the genre has nothing to do with leisure. Instead, she says it is a vessel for transformation, transcending mere performance.

For her, patrons of gospel music events should not expect to have fun. Instead, they should approach these experiences with an open heart and mind, allowing the lyrics of the songs to sink in and bring about positive change.

In an interview with Graphic Showbiz on Tuesday, June 3, the reigning Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA) Best Female Vocal Performer urged audiences to shift their mindset.

She challenged the prevailing notion that gospel events should mirror secular concerts filled with flashy productions and high-energy acts.

“When people attend our events, they shouldn’t just look for entertainment. They should come with open hearts, ready to absorb the positive change the lyrics can inspire,” she shares.

Esther sees herself and her fellow gospel artistes as not mere performers but messengers carrying the good news meant to uplift spirits.

“The gospel was never designed for fanfare or applause but to bring comfort, warmth and joy,” she explains.

“While we may not entertain in the traditional sense, the light we carry has the power to brighten lives. This powerful perspective resonates deeply, inviting listeners to engage with gospel music on a spiritual level rather than a superficial one,” she added.

Meanwhile, the journey of gospel music is undergoing a vibrant transformation, with new styles influencing the genre—from choirs to trap beats, and Afrobeats to jazzy undertones.

While Esther embraces this evolution, she is also keenly aware of the challenges it presents. “Gospel music is stretching its wings,” she admits, “but with that growth comes the responsibility to keep our focus clear.”

As rhythms and styles change, Esther emphasises that the core mission remains: to share God’s message authentically. “Innovation is fantastic, but we must not lose sight of our spiritual purpose,” she insists. This balance between modern influences and sacred intentions defines her work and her vision for the future of gospel music.

While she may not yet be a household name, her presence is undeniably making waves within the gospel music scene, noting that many young female gospel artistes like herself are building their craft and serving faithfully in various capacities.

“It’s not a competition. Trust me, there are many bold, talented women whom the Lord is preparing. A lot of up-and-coming female artistes are building capacity and the assignment is not to dethrone anyone, but to light up more corners of the world with our message,” she said.