Timi Dakolo Defends Gospel Artists Amid Pastor’s Criticism Over Charging Fees
Nigerian singer Timi Dakolo has weighed in on the ongoing debate surrounding gospel musicians charging fees for church performances. His response comes after Apostle Lazarus criticized gospel artists for commercializing ministry, citing an instance where a singer allegedly charged five million naira to perform for a congregation.
The pastor’s statement sparked mixed reactions within the gospel and music communities, with many questioning the balance between faith and financial sustainability in gospel music.
Timi Dakolo’s Response
In a detailed post, Dakolo defended gospel musicians, emphasizing the financial investment required to sustain their craft. He urged Christians to acknowledge that, beyond its spiritual significance, music is also a profession that demands fair compensation.
“My dear Christians, a quote or conversation can sound intelligent and deep yet be untrue. Just like everyone else, you deserve the very best things life has to offer. You should be paid what you deserve. Studio sessions, production, and promotion cost a lot. You have a family to feed, you have rent to pay. You have more songs to put out. We should stop these attacks on people’s work. As much as it is spiritual, music is an art. If you can’t pay people, use your choir members and pay them the amount you would have given the guest artist.”
Music as a Profession, Not Charity
Dakolo also pointed out the financial priorities of churches, questioning why musicians are often expected to offer their services for free while large sums are spent on other aspects of ministry, such as event promotions and church infrastructure.
“This gaslighting has to stop. Gospel ministers want good things too, they are not beggars. The best architects are called upon to build big churches, large sums of money are disbursed for promoting big programs, and all. No one should diminish another person’s ministry. Ministry needs music, and music needs ministry.”
He further highlighted the dedication and years of training required to become an elite musician, advocating for better treatment and compensation of church musicians.
“It takes at least ten years and countless hours to be an elite musician. Develop your musicians and singers in your church and pay them well. Leave all these belittling comments alone. None of these people saying these things will fly economy and travel alone to save money for the ministry that invites them to preach. All this was said in love.”
The Ongoing Debate
Dakolo’s response has reignited conversations about the intersection of faith, artistry, and business. While some agree that gospel artists deserve fair pay, others argue that ministry should remain separate from financial transactions. The debate continues to divide opinions within the gospel community, raising questions about how churches and gospel artists can find a middle ground.
