Opinion Piece: Do You Think it is Wrong for Afro Gospel Singers to Sample Secular Songs?

So, there I was, just minding my business and vibing to some Afro Gospel tunes when I stumbled upon something interesting. Aigbeh D’Gong’s latest track, Imole, caught my attention – not just because of its powerful message about our identity in Christ, but because I realized it sampled the popular South African song Tshwala Bam.

Now, don’t get me wrong, I’m all for the uplifting lyrics of Imole, but I couldn’t help but notice that many Afro-Gospel artists are starting to sample secular songs. It’s got me thinking – is this a growing trend? For better clarity, let me explain what music sampling is. Sampling music is when an artist takes a portion of a song—like a beat, melody, or vocal—and incorporates it into their own track. It’s like giving a nod to the original while creating something new. It’s super common in music today and can add a cool twist to fresh tunes!

So, that’s just my take on it. But I was curious, so I reached out to a few friends who are really into music to get their thoughts. What do they think about this? Am I onto something, way off, or maybe a bit of both?

Please catch up with their comments below.

Honestly, I do not think there is anything wrong in sampling secular songs as a gospel singer. A lot of secular singers also sample each other’s songs. Moreover, creating music is such a creative journey, and I think that musicians regardless of the kind of genre that they sing should be tuned with any melody or beat that is trendy at a particular time. I don’t mind jam to a beat that I know was originally used by Davido, so far the lyrics glorify God, I don’t mind’. – Kolawole

‘This subject is dicey. Really! But I will try to be as honest or perhaps I say subjective as possible. When you asked me this question, the first thing I asked myself is ‘how did a gospel singer know the beat that a secular artist used? Well, I answered myself. The artist probably listened to the song either voluntary or involuntary. However, I believe there is no need for sampling. If I hear a trendy beat in a gospel song, many times. I get distracted because my mind reminds me of the original version of the beat which could have ungodly lyrics, by the way. Imagine the messy event that happened when a gospel singer sang, ‘gwo gwo gwo’ while ministering to people. Perhaps I am sounding judgemental, but if you could get so carried away singing certain songs while ministering or jumping on certain trends while ministering, then your source of inspiration is questionable. This is my humble opinion. – Adora

‘Please, I don’t want our gospel artists to sample secular songs. Although I listen to a range of music, the major reason I listen to gospel songs, whether afro-beat or other genres, is because I want to connect with God. The moment the song sounds like a hip-hop song I listened to throughout the previous day, I find it difficult to connect properly. But, beyond that, I like the creative idea that comes with afro-gospel music. The music production, beat and even lyrics are great. So, even if they keep sampling, I will keep listening. I’m just saying! Thank you!’ James

‘I honestly do not think there is anything wrong with sampling songs. I work as a sound producer, and every sound producer is always inspired by sounds. I can hear a sound on my way to work, and after looking it up on Google, I make beautiful music with it. Moreover, who says you have to listen to secular songs to sample the beat? You can get the interlude of several songs online.’ – T-Baze

What do you think about our respondents? What is your opinion about afro-gospel artists sampling secular artists? Drop your comments in the comment section. Thank you!