Hello guys! Today, we are looking into something that has been causing quite the conversation in the Afro-Gospel community lately: Should Afro-Gospel artists use lyrics or words or trends from secular songs in their music? I know this is one of those “hot gist” that divides opinions. In fact, this topic has caused several debates in the christian Twitter community. But let’s break it down.
First off, sampling secular songs isn’t a new thing in music. Over so many decades, different artists have sampled songs from established artists. Many artists, including some gospel greats, have taken melodies or phrases from popular songs and given them a new twist. But the big question is, should Afro-Gospel artists be doing the same, especially when it comes to lyrics from secular hits? For a better perspective, should a gospel singer jump on the ‘12345678’ trend or include ‘gwo gwo gwo gow’ in their lyrics?
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On one hand, some people think it’s a no-go. They argue that Gospel music is sacred and should stay in its lane. After all, Gospel is about delivering a message of faith, hope, and love through Christ, while secular songs often focus on things that are sometimes ungodly. We could also say some of these secular songs are not exactly gospel-friendly. Using lyrics from a song that’s all about “chopping life”, ladies “shaking their bum bum”, or “hitting a maga” might seem like a contradiction, right? It could even confuse listeners about what the song is truly about.
But here’s the other side of the coin. Music is a powerful connector, and using familiar lyrics or vibes from secular songs can be a way to draw people in, especially the youth. Imagine you’re vibing to a song that has a beat or line from your favorite club banger, but then it hits you with powerful Gospel lyrics. This can be an unexpected and fresh way to introduce the message of Christ in a way that feels relatable. Sometimes, people might not be open to listening to Gospel music directly, but if it’s dressed in something they already like, they might just pay attention.
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We took these conversations to some of our friends, and we asked them for their opinions. Here is what they think:
“It is a no-go area, abeg! How do you say that people will be edified when you are saying slang like ‘Tule joor, tule jare”? Even if you say the slang while speaking to the people you are ministering to, it doesn’t exactly glorify God.” – Victoria
“I think that we are beginning to bring our wokism into the church. It is great to jump on trends and say slang, but it is totally unacceptable and dishonourable to say certain slang is known for certain songs in the church of God. It is even worse that some churches and Christians are applauding these people. You are dishonouring the house of God” – Hannah
“I do not think it is entirely wrong. It is the motive that matters. If a singer goes to a terribly ungodly environment filled with hooligans, he might need to use this slang to entice them and draw them closer. I do not think it is wrong. I think if Jesus were in our days, he might also use some of these slangs will preaching.” – Sir Dee
“This conversation is quite long, but like I always say. Gospel songs are holy and are supposed to be offered as sacrifices unto God, so when we attach all manner of lyrics, vibes and beats to them, how do we think God would feel? If we were God, would we appreciate such sacrifice too?”
At the end of the day, I think it all boils down to intention. If an Afro-Gospel artist is using secular lyrics to elevate the message of Christ and not water it down, then maybe, just maybe, it’s cool. But if it leads people away from the message, e no go work o. What do you think? Should Gospel stay pure, or is it time to mix things up a bit?
