Award-winning gospel singer Tim Godfrey has publicly defended gospel musicians who charge fees for their performances, arguing that financial compensation and spiritual ministry are not mutually exclusive concepts in the modern music industry.
In a recent video statement, Godfrey expressed strong frustration with criticism directed at gospel artists seeking fair payment for their services and musical performances. He stated: “I want to say it: all of those comments of ‘Why are they charging? Why are they collecting money? Why are they doing this?’ It got me so, so mad. I said, ‘Why are people wicked?'”
Tim Godfrey’s defense of gospel artists comes amid ongoing debate within Nigerian church circles about appropriate compensation for gospel musicians and worship leaders. The conversation surrounding gospel artist fees first emerged prominently in March when Pastor Femi Lazarus of Light Nation Church in Abuja disclosed that a gospel artist had requested N5 million for a worship event, which he described as “ruthless” and excessive.
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The renowned gospel musician emphasized that gospel ministry and professionalism are not mutually exclusive, and that fair compensation for gospel performances is vital for sustaining a music ministry. Godfrey maintained that asking for performance fees does not make gospel musicians unspiritual or money-driven. Instead, he argued that gospel artists deserve value for their work, time, and talent.
Drawing from personal experience, Godfrey recalled receiving yams and live chickens as payment for gospel performances over the years, questioning how such non-monetary gifts could sustain a family in Nigeria’s economy. He emphasized that gospel music requires significant financial investment in rehearsals, travel expenses, and production quality.
Godfrey questioned whether chicken or yam could pay his children’s school fees, help him acquire property, or cover basic living expenses. His comments reflect broader concerns about the undervaluation of gospel artists within Nigeria’s religious and entertainment sectors. Gospel musicians invest considerable resources into their craft yet often receive minimal compensation compared to secular artists.
The value of gospel ministry extends beyond spiritual impact to include professional services that require expertise, training, and resources. Gospel singers spend hours perfecting their craft, traveling to performances, and investing in quality sound equipment and arrangements that enhance worship experiences.
In the video surfaced on October 10, 2025, Godfrey lamented that after many years dedicated to gospel ministry, it has become increasingly difficult to return to performing in Nigeria due to the lack of value placed on gospel artists by churches and event organizers. This challenges many established gospel musicians who have dedicated their lives to spreading the gospel through music.
The singer, known for organizing the annual Fearless Gospel Concert featuring international gospel artists and worship leaders, has positioned this debate as a matter of professional respect and dignity for creative workers within the religious community. Tim Godfrey’s stance represents a growing movement among gospel artists advocating for fair compensation and recognition.
Many gospel musicians in Nigeria face the challenge of balancing their calling with financial sustainability. The debate over gospel artist fees touches on fundamental questions about how churches and religious organizations value professional ministry services compared to secular entertainment.
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