Sonnie Badu criticizes over-commercialization of gospel music, calls for more spiritual depth
Renowned Ghanaian gospel musician Sonnie Badu has expressed concerns about the over-commercialization of gospel music, urging artists to prioritize spiritual elements in their work.
The Baba hitmaker acknowledged the importance of financial rewards in the music industry but cautioned against neglecting the spiritual essence of gospel music. He emphasized that the genre should remain a tool to convey messages of faith, hope, and redemption.
“The spirit-filled can be commercialized, and it’s rightly so—it’s good to do that. That’s how you benefit from your gift and craft,” Badu said during an interview on Star FM. “You need that balance. Don’t be so commercialized that you forget about the spirituality. You have to blend the two.”
Badu also discussed the role of digital platforms in helping gospel musicians earn from their work. “I think there is now a realization that spirit-filled gospel music can be commercialized. Anybody who puts their song on a digital platform is not doing it for free,” he noted. “If you’re overly focused on being spirit-filled, you might regret not making the most of your opportunities.”
Looking ahead, the second edition of Sonnie Badu’s Rhythms of Africa event is scheduled to take place at Independence Square on Friday, November 29, 2024.
