‘Enjoying secular music doesn’t make you a sinner’
Renowned gospel artiste Obaapa Christy has offered her perspective on the ongoing debate that has captured the attention of many, particularly following a viral video of a Catholic priest singing King Paluta’s ‘Aseda’ during a church service.
The video has sparked discussions on whether it is appropriate for a pastor or a Christian to engage with secular music, especially in a religious setting. However, Obaapa Christy has made it clear that she sees no issue with this practice, emphasizing that secular songs can often carry messages that align with Christian values.
In a candid conversation with Merqury Quaye on the show U Sey Weytin, Obaapa Christy articulated her belief that music, whether secular or gospel, can serve as a vehicle for spiritual and moral messages. “Every individual has a mission from God, a purpose they are meant to fulfill in life,” she began. “This mission varies from person to person. Whether someone is a truck pusher, a footballer, or a musician, they are all fulfilling the role that God has bestowed upon them. The same principle applies to music—regardless of whether it’s labeled as secular or gospel.”
She went on to explain that the specific song in question, King Paluta’s ‘Aseda,’ is no different from many gospel songs because it mentions God and expresses gratitude, which are core themes in Christian worship. “When God is being acknowledged in a song, it shares the same essence as what gospel musicians strive to convey in their music,” Obaapa Christy noted.
The gospel singer also addressed the broader implications of this debate, urging individuals to focus more on their personal journeys and less on external criticisms. “In the world of music, there are various genres—wisdom songs, Christian songs, and even profane songs. But the key is to understand what resonates with your soul and your mission in life. I could sing Amakye Dede’s or King Paluta’s songs, and it wouldn’t diminish my faith. People will always have something negative to say, but it’s crucial to keep your eyes on what God has planned for you,” she advised.
Obaapa Christy shared a personal anecdote to illustrate her point about the often hypocritical nature of criticism. She recounted an incident where she was enjoying a song by Kofi Antwi while in a salon, only to be questioned by a woman for dancing to a secular tune. “As the song played, I began to dance, and a woman approached me, asking why I was engaging with such music. I felt self-conscious and stopped dancing. But then, moments later, I noticed her tapping her feet to the rhythm. I pointed it out, and it was a clear reminder that we all enjoy music in different ways, and it doesn’t necessarily conflict with our faith,” she said, highlighting the universality of music and its ability to connect people across different walks of life. In her concluding remarks, Obaapa Christy firmly stated that enjoying or performing secular music does not equate to sinfulness. “God’s love is unconditional and extends to everyone, regardless of the type of music they perform or enjoy. Singing hip-life or any other genre doesn’t make someone a sinner or diminish their chances of reaching heaven. It’s simply a different path they are on, a different mission they are fulfilling in their lives,” she asserted.
