In a powerful and candid statement, US-based Nigerian gospel singer Lara George has entered the ongoing debate about whether gospel singers should be compensated for their performances at churches and Christian events. Her comments come in response to recent remarks made by Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, the founder of Christ Embassy, regarding the commercialization of gospel music.
Lara George, known for her hit songs and inspirational music, didn’t hold back as she addressed critics who question the legitimacy of paying gospel singers. She compared Nigerian gospel artists to their secular counterparts, emphasizing that professional musicians—regardless of genre—deserve fair compensation for their craft.
“If you found out that your favorite non-Naija Gospel artiste charges $100k USD to sing songs of praise and worship, would they appear less spiritual to you because they do so? Or did you all think that they sing for free?” she asked, pointing out the double standards often applied to gospel singers versus secular artists.
George further highlighted a troubling trend where some churches are willing to pay substantial amounts to foreign gospel artists while balking at compensating Nigerian gospel artists fairly. “If you discovered that many of your favorite ‘pulpit persons’ who act as though paying the Naija artiste is an unthinkable thing, are actually paying the non-Naija artiste those so-called ‘high sums of money’, would your view of the ‘pulpit person’ change?” she questioned.
The gospel singer also took aim at pastors who enjoy lavish lifestyles funded by tithes and offerings, asking probing questions about their sources of income. “Have you ever asked whether it is the ‘pulpit-person’s’ tapes and CDs that are affording them the lavish lifestyles they live with private jets here and there? Or is that lifestyle from tithes and offerings???? A Gospel artiste is indeed a professional. A professional artiste. Is there such a thing as a professional pastor? Dear ‘pastor’, What’s your source of livelihood exactly? If we stop the tithes and offerings, will that ministry also retire??? I can’t stand either bullies or hypocrisy!” George wrote in a fiery Instagram post.
Her remarks have ignited a conversation about the value of gospel music and the fair treatment of artists within the church community. Social media users have chimed in with their reactions:
- @djgosporella: “This same question I have asked, ’IS PASTORING A PROFESSION?”
- @ademefunadelayo: “How is Pastor Chris a bully? I hope you know he has invested in many of these gospel artists too.”
- @kingthorba: “Gospel Artiste come with instrumentalist, backups, they rehearse at studios etc… all these require money. I do not understand why you won’t pay them for coming on your stage.”
Lara George’s bold stance underscores the need for transparency and fairness in the treatment of gospel artists. As the debate continues, it serves as a reminder of the importance of valuing and compensating talent, regardless of the setting.
