Nigerian singer Timi Dakolo has responded to comments made by Apostle Femi Lazarus, who criticised gospel artists for charging fees to perform at church events.
The pastor had questioned the commercialization of ministry, citing an instance where a singer requested ₦5 million to perform for his congregation. His remarks sparked debate within the gospel and music communities.
In a detailed post, Dakolo defended gospel musicians, emphasizing the financial investment required to sustain their craft. He urged Christians to recognize that, beyond its spiritual significance, music is also a profession that requires fair compensation.
“My dear Christians, a quote/conversation can sound intelligent and deep yet 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.
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 what you would have given the guest artist.”
Dakolo also pointed out the significant expenses churches incur for architecture, event promotions, and pastoral engagements, questioning why musicians are often expected to offer their services for free.
“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 are disbursed for promoting big programs, and all. No one should diminish another person’s ministry. Ministry needs music, and music needs ministry.
It takes at least 10 years and countless hours to be an elite musician. Develop your musicians and singers in your church and pay them well. None of these people saying this will fly economy and travel alone to save money for the ministry that invites them to preach. All this was said in love.”
His statement has reignited discussions about fair compensation for gospel artists and the financial realities of music ministry.