We’ve lost sight of the true purpose of gospel music – Josh Laryea
Ghanaian gospel musician and pastor Josh Laryea has voiced his concern over the shifting focus in gospel music, which he says is now more centered on materialism than on spiritual growth and upliftment.
In an interview with Graphic Showbiz, he called for a renewed emphasis on the core message of the genre. “We’ve lost sight of the true purpose of gospel music,” Laryea stated. “It’s time to shift focus.”
Laryea, who serves as head pastor at Kharis Centre International in La, Accra, explained that the trend toward messages of material prosperity in gospel music is not only widespread but has also impacted him personally. Reflecting on his own experience, he admitted, “I’ve been a victim myself. It took a while for me to realize I was going off course. My song lyrics were changing, and looking back, I have some regrets. I didn’t want to be a lone wolf, so I followed the trend.” He noted that while there’s nothing inherently wrong with financial blessings, gospel music’s priority should be spiritual edification.
Laryea attributes this trend largely to the messages preached in churches today, particularly those that promote a “prosperity gospel” approach. He explained, “I will partly blame pastors for the shift in focus of gospel music. It is said that ‘you are what you hear,’ and the outcome of what the church is doing is reflected in gospel music today.” According to Laryea, many pastors emphasize messages that prioritize wealth and success over spiritual integrity and commitment to faith, which influences musicians to produce music that echoes these themes.
This trend, Laryea added, is problematic as it often overshadows the foundational message of gospel music, which is meant to inspire faith, hope, and moral guidance. “Yes, we need to be relevant, but not at the expense of our spiritual mandate. It’s time to refocus on the message since we are gradually creating a culture where people believe God’s primary concern should be the state of their bank accounts,” he said, pointing out that the essence of gospel music is becoming diluted by the pressure to appeal to a culture increasingly focused on wealth.
He further explained that the rise of prosperity-themed gospel songs often drives musicians towards themes that are popular but may stray from gospel’s spiritual roots. “Songs centered on material success capture people’s attention easily, and so most gospel musicians lean towards that direction,” Laryea observed. “However, we need to remember that gospel music has a unique role in the lives of believers and is meant to serve as a vehicle for spiritual nourishment.”
Since beginning his music career in 1992 with the release of his debut song, His Resurrection Power, Laryea has produced several beloved gospel tracks, including Emmre, Ajoomi, Ngboo, Kane, and Bisa. His experience in both ministry and music gives him a unique perspective on the impact of gospel music on the lives of listeners. Now, more than three decades into his career, he hopes to encourage a renewed commitment to gospel music that places spiritual value above material concerns. Laryea’s message resonates with a growing movement within the gospel community that calls for authenticity and a return to gospel’s roots. He believes that by prioritizing messages of spiritual growth, gospel music can inspire deeper faith and connection among listeners. As he continues his ministry, Laryea remains dedicated to producing music that stays true to the spiritual essence he feels the genre needs to preserve for future generations.
