Veteran gospel musician Amy Newman has called on churches in Ghana to prioritize the talents within their congregations instead of bringing in popular gospel artists from outside. She believes that relying on external performers denies gifted church members the opportunity to grow and actively minister.
According to Newman, churches should focus on identifying, nurturing, and celebrating the abilities of their own members. She warns that paying large sums to well-known artists while overlooking homegrown talent undermines the ministry, discourages young musicians, and diminishes the potential impact of worship within the community.
Newman also highlighted that this trend can be particularly discouraging for youth in the church, many of whom have advanced musical skills and are eager to serve. By investing in internal talent, churches can foster a stronger, more vibrant ministry while giving young musicians the platform to flourish.
The seasoned singer, famed for her timeless hit Okamafo Jesus, further expressed concern about the increasing tendency for gospel music to mirror secular trends. She urges gospel musicians to remain true to their divine calling rather than imitating popular styles, emphasizing the importance of using God-given gifts responsibly and authentically.
