- Esther Godwyll states gospel music is not meant for entertainment but transformation
- She says gospel artistes are spiritual messengers, not entertainers
- She encourages patrons to attend gospel events with open hearts, not for fun
Gospel singer Esther Godwyll has responded to critics who claim gospel concerts resemble religious crusades and lack entertainment appeal. In her view, gospel music is not intended to entertain but to inspire transformation and spiritual growth.
Speaking in an interview with Graphic Showbiz on Tuesday, June 3, Esther—who recently won Best Female Vocal Performance at the Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA)—emphasized that gospel events are not about flashy performances or showmanship.
“People shouldn’t come to gospel events expecting to be entertained like at secular concerts,” she said. “They should come with open hearts, ready to be moved and changed by the message in the music.”
Esther described gospel artistes as messengers with a divine calling, not performers seeking applause. “Gospel music is about bringing comfort, joy, and hope—not fanfare,” she explained. “We may not entertain in the usual sense, but the light we carry can truly brighten lives.”
She also acknowledged that gospel music is evolving, incorporating modern sounds like trap, Afrobeats, and jazz. While she welcomes innovation, she cautioned that the genre’s spiritual essence must remain intact.
“Growth is good, but we must stay focused. Innovation should never replace authenticity and spiritual integrity,” she said.
Although Esther may not yet be widely known, she’s part of a rising wave of young female gospel artistes who are diligently honing their skills and contributing behind the scenes.
“It’s not a competition,” she said. “There are many talented women coming up, and our mission isn’t to replace anyone, but to spread the gospel and illuminate more lives through our music.”
