I just can’t help it, yes, my heart bleeds… and at that profusely. I will try my best not to sound biased, and the last thing I want to do is offend anyone. But, I have to write what I believe is the truth. This blog post has been triggered by a thought I shared on Facebook a couple of days ago. You can check it out on my profile, more precisely on the 22nd of May —> https://www.facebook.com/sarah.kimeu/posts/10209294468575842 Before I elaborate my concerns, I admit that some men and women are really doing things right… in my opinion of course. Mercy Masika, Alice Kamande, Kambua; just to name a few.
Some may say, that there is no particular standard for the kind of music that should be categorized as Gospel. BUT… there is! And it is stipulated in the word of God! I’ve got so much to say on this matter, and will, therefore, group it into a four-part series. It is my desire and prayer that the revelation you receive through reading this shall sink deep into your heart, so that your eyes open up to the reality of what we know today as the Kenyan Gospel music industry.
I have watched Willy Paul’s song, ‘Digiri’ a couple of times since it was released. If you haven’t watched it, you can check it out on YouTube. I just needed to understand the message of the song before writing this blog post. After a couple of gimmicks, the artiste mentions how we need to love each other and should not despise those who uneducated. Even more beautiful is how he talks about the fact that we are all equal, correct? He further mentions how God, the angels, Adam and Eve do not have degrees. Then mentions that you don’t need a degree or awards to enter into heaven. The tune and beats are catchy, but answer this in your heart. Are you being ministered to? Do you feel the need to know Jesus more and spend time with Him? The first time I watched the video, I did not even listen to the lyrics word for word, only because I was looking at the dance moves.
I was having a discussion a couple of days ago with a friend of mine about this song. They mentioned an important aspect that I had not even thought about while listening to it. So, for you parents, or parents-to-be; What would happen if you told your child to go to school and they said there is no need because they don’t need a degree to go to heaven? I know how Mark Zuckerberg dropped out of school to begin his venture. I also know people who ended up in different fields which contradict what they studied in school. But then, there is your child who is in primary, high school or campus and are devotedly dancing to this song. Telling you how they don’t need a degree to get into heaven. Friends, do you see my point? This kind of song is ‘rocking’ our airwaves in the name of Gospel music.
The other day our beloved Jimmy Gait talked about how he was hurt by the fact that people would come up with all sorts of memes about him. People can be unforgiving when you make a mistake. I can’t imagine what he had to go through every time he came across a meme about him. But the truth is, no one will ever make a meme about Christina Shusho or Rebecca Dawn. I even thought that the memes would stop immediately he produced his song called ‘love’. Then I came across this…
My brother Jimmy Gait, if you ever get to read this post, know that my heart goes out to you. You already have a huge following, and what I believe was a mature response to what has been happening to you. I don’t know anything about your relationship with God or quiet time. But now more than ever, seek Him more and desire to do His will. Allow the Holy Spirit to inspire your lyrics and everything about your music. In fact, this is my prayer for every gospel musician; that your walk with God is evident in your music and lifestyle. You already have the following and influence, now win souls for the kingdom through your music. I believe this is where most of you have missed it, more on that in the course of the series.
The Kenyan Gospel music industry has become more about performance and money; and not about ministry, outreach, and evangelism. Even worse, is how the truth of God’s word and power is diluted and undermined every day through the Gospel music in Kenya and even some churches. We are conforming every day to the patterns of this world and not standing out as we should (Romans 12:2). I pray that your heart is open to the mental and spiritual shift taking place through this post and the ones to come. I am seeking God deeply as I write these posts, and will be praying for you as well. Otherwise, much love to you! Feel free to comment and share this post as much as possible.
With love,
Mumbua 🙂
© 2018 - 2024. Call me Mumbua. All Rights Reserved.
Am following, something has to be said, and it still being said…. Waiting for part 2
Thank you so much for your comment Paula. I am glad you love the piece. Part 2 will be coming soon. 🙂
Awesome read. Gospel industry has become a money making business capitalizing on the latest dance moves, flashy lifestyle being depicted on some of these songs…hence clouding the fact that such songs are supposed to be Inspired of the holy spirit and the main goal should be to fully pass the message and minister to the masses…btw Mark Zuckerberg finally got his college honors.
Eagerly waiting for part 2
Thank you for your response. I highly appreciate it. Indeed I concur with you. At least he finally got his degree. But we need a serious change in this area.
This echoes what’s in the hearts of many like myself. Truth must be spoken even if it is unpopular and this truth is not ‘judging or condemning” Gospel artists. This truth is of love and aims to point them to the Truth, Jesus Christ!
One more area to shibe light on is the fact that media is a powerful tool and those in power in media shows, especially Gospel shows, are calling the shots to a certain preference that’s causing many artists to compromise on the quality and standards of the Gospel and Gospel music.
The music and videos we’re treated to 90% are hype and entertainment oriented which is mostly self glorification rather than God glorification.
I’m throwing this suggestion. We’ve talked and sometimes even complained so much on the negative side we see of Kenyan Gospel Music. How about we begin highlighting those that are getting it right. Not just the famous ones. There are many more that have not bowed down. Elijah thought he was the only prophet remaining until God revealed to him the existence of a multitude remnant that had not bowed down to the systems of the world.
So my prayer is that we ought to also shine the light and highlight those that have remained true who carry the Gospel as it is that blesses God and men!
I wanna see more of the Bethu and Highest Praise, Mwanga Band, Worship Factory, Covenant Trio, Lakeside Psalmists, Nikko, Enid Moraa, …and this list can go on and on…
Thank you so much for your comment Victor. Indeed we need to be the light that we are called to be. Yes there are remnants, and I really want more of their music to be played compared to what the media is feeding us. God bless!
Theres one thing that makes a part of our Gospel music look so fake, lack of a personal relationship with God and willingness to appease to the masses. A personal relationship with God gives us a touch with what God wants us to speak and teaches us humility. which help us handle ourselves even before people
Edward that is deep wisdom right there. I am glad that I am not the only one with such sentiments. Thank you so much for your comment. Much appreciated.
This is soooo real…. you know the Bible speaks of praises and hymns, all this songs that most of our Kenyan artists are singing is just to show how they are taking Christ and salvation as a joke… problem is most of this young people start in the Spirit and due to poor advice they end up in the flesh, gone are the days we had the likes of Marion Shako rocking our airwaves and the Spirit of worship being filled in our houses! If only God could open their eyes and they follow up on this series!
2Ki 6:17 And Elisha prayed, and said, LORD, I pray thee, open his eyes, that he may see. And the LORD opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha.
Thank you so much for your response Sha. You are absolutely right. May our eyes be opened to this reality. God bless you!
Not listened to the music but the read was good. I have a keen interest in gospel and i like your views do not let Satan have the last word,Good music comes from God bad motives come from Satan
Nice post with awesome advise..always allow Holy spirit to inspire your lyrics…loved it
Thank you so much for taking the time to read it. Much appreciated. The Holy Spirit should inspire our lyrics, I concur