Popular gospel musician Bernard Amankwah has stirred a new controversy among Ghana's gospel music fraternity. During a media press conference in Accra, Amankwah cautioned gospel artists against measuring their influence by the turn-up of crowds. For him, lasting influence has nothing to do with crowds, but with lives transformed for better.
Key Highlights (Quick Read)
•Bernard Amankwah: "Crowds don't equal impact."
•Calls on gospel musicians to place spiritual effect ahead of popularity.
•Demands authentic ministry to Ghana's gospel industry.
•Industry stakeholders provide their view into the debate.
The Ghanaian gospel music industry has witnessed phenomenal growth over recent years, with concerts attracting tens of thousands of fans. Thousands of people at such venues as the Accra Sports Stadium or the National Theatre are typically touted as a sign of success.
But Amankwah believes this mindset is misleading. He insists that gospel music is not just entertainment, that it's a ministry that has to be gauged by the lives it touches and the values it lays down.
When speaking, Amankwah stressed:
"A musician's worth isn't in the number of bodies occupying an auditorium, but in how many hearts are lifted, encouraged, and brought closer to God."
His statement comes when the majority of artists are investing heavily in advertising to guarantee massive turnouts for concerts.
Market observers note that his statement stirs the pot, compelling gospel artists to reevaluate their priorities in 2025.
Expert & Industry Comments
• Music Analysts: They agree with some market insiders, noting that social media has created a "numbers chasing" culture where artists confuse success with going viral.
•Church Leaders: Some church leaders defended Amankwah, citing that spiritual depth needs to come before commercial popularity.
•Fans: Social media reactions were mixed. Some commended him for his courage, while others argued that big crowds also reflect acceptance and relevance.
Impact & Implications
If gospel artists take this philosophy on board, then it can steer the direction of Ghana's gospel industry:
•Less emphasis on record-breaking attendance.
•More investment in outreach into communities, mentorship, and online ministry.
• Potential realignment of event sponsorship models where impact reporting becomes more important than ticketing.
This might also extend to other African gospel markets, such as Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa.
What's Next?
Amankwah will unveil new efforts aimed at mentoring young gospel artists into authentic ministry. Players in the industry are watching closely if this signals a broader shift in the success definitions of gospel music in 2025.
FAQ
Q: Why is Bernard Amankwah stating that crowds do not equal influence?
A: He says real influence is derived from transformed lives, not crowds.
Q: How are gospel artists responding?
A: Divided reactions — some concur, others affirm crowds demonstrate relevance.
Q: What might this be for Ghana's gospel market?
A: A move towards authenticity, mentorship, and long-term spiritual effect.
Bernard Amankwah has a message: gospel musicians need to try to touch hearts, not concert halls. His words may usher in a new direction for Ghana's gospel music industry, redefining success for a new generation of musicians who are emerging.