- The debate on payment for gospel musicians in churches is gaining attention.
- Pastor Femi Lazarus criticized gospel artists for charging performance fees.
- He shared an example of a singer who demanded ₦5 million for a church performance.
The debate over whether gospel musicians should be paid for church performances has intensified, drawing reactions from Pastor Femi Lazarus, singer Timi Dakolo, and comedian Ali Baba.
Pastor Lazarus, the leader of Light Nation Church, sparked controversy when he criticized gospel artists who charge fees for performing in churches. In a widely circulated video, he recalled an instance where a singer requested ₦5 million for a performance. According to him, true ministers should trust in divine provision rather than commercializing worship.
This stance did not sit well with renowned Nigerian musician Timi Dakolo. He countered that gospel music is not only a calling but also a profession that requires financial investment. He emphasized that recording, production, and promotions are costly, adding that gospel artists have families to support. Dakolo urged pastors to either pay musicians fairly or rely solely on their church choirs instead of making them feel guilty.
Comedian Ali Baba added his voice to the debate on March 21, 2025, through an Instagram post. He shared three real-life stories highlighting the struggles of church musicians. One such story was about Gbenga, a keyboardist who requested accommodation assistance from his church after commuting long distances for services, only to find his belongings dumped outside after months of waiting.
Another case was Eze, a bassist who was repeatedly suspended for playing in a secular jazz band. Despite his dedication, he eventually left the church after being warned by his deaconess aunt that a final suspension would be permanent. The third story, involving a musician named Sammie, ended tragically with his passing, though details remain unclear.
Ali Baba criticized church leaders for what he described as “well-manicured blackmail,” arguing that many churches exploit musicians without compensation. He pointed out the irony of churches rejecting struggling artists but later inviting them back as paid performers once they achieve success.
The discussion continues to spark debate, with many weighing in on whether gospel musicians should be treated as ministers of faith or professionals deserving of financial support.
His Instagram caption ended with,
“In the end, the ones that stayed in the local parishes, see the ones that launched out on their own apursued the gospel ministration, became popular, accepted, paid, & invited, by the same parish that refused to even give them tokens of particles from tithes, to ease, their tight corner”
See the post here
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DHb-OtSMOwK
@uchennaji;”If only I can share my story as to why I walked out almost 2decades ago after serving at a prominent-elite RCCG church in VI. Maybe someday …🚶🏾🚶🏾🚶🏾”
@holy_ake;”Where is the lie? You invite foreigners and pay them, why not show love to those that are dedicated in your church doing the work”
@minjoechristian;”I went through this exact experience.”
@ola_bass;”Thissss!!!!!! If the so called body of Christ/Pastors dey do Artistes/Musicians/Choir well, they wouldn’t have to put a price tag on their talents. Emphasis: Treat your Musicians well 🙏🙏🙏🙏”
@loladefacetalk;”I saw something similar first hand, I just told myself, my dear get up and go and make some money. No one will rate you if you don’t polish yourself and add some value. I mean premium value.”
