Award-winning gospel musician Ohemaa Mercy has raised urgent concerns about the precarious state of gospel events in Ghana, likening the situation to a patient on life support.
She is calling on corporate Ghana to step in and provide much-needed support, warning that without such intervention, gospel events could face imminent collapse.
In an interview during the launch of this year’s Tehillah Experience, Ohemaa Mercy attributed the struggles of gospel events to a severe lack of corporate sponsorship.
She explained that this financial shortfall is threatening the survival of these events, which are vital for promoting spiritual growth and moral values.
Ohemaa Mercy, known for hits like “Ote Me Mu,” “Edin Jesus,” and “Wobeye Kese,” expressed frustration with the perception that gospel music and events are less deserving of corporate backing.
Additionally, she believes that many corporate bodies misunderstand the value of gospel music and avoid associating with religious activities.
“Corporate institutions often don’t understand the business of gospel music and mistakenly believe they shouldn’t engage with religious events,” she said.
“This misconception contributes to the dire financial situation of gospel events, which are put on ‘life support’ due to overwhelming financial burdens.”
The challenges faced by gospel artistes in securing sponsorship are compounded by the perception that religious events are less appealing to sponsors compared to secular events. Despite consistently hosting her Tehillah Experience concert for 11 years, Ohemaa Mercy admits that financial constraints have made it increasingly difficult, with some events having to be cancelled or postponed.
She also acknowledged that many gospel artistes, including Joe Mettle, have faced similar struggles. Joe Mettle recently revealed that he had to personally fund his Praiz Reloaded event after facing difficulties securing sponsorship.
Ohemaa Mercy offered encouragement to emerging gospel artistes, urging them to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth.
“Understanding your purpose and accepting challenges as part of your journey is crucial. Even without sponsorship, continue to pursue your calling with faith and resilience,” she advised.
The Tehillah Experience concert, themed “Tehillah The Bethel Experience,” is set to take place on Sunday, September 8, 2024, at the Oil Dome, Royal House Chapel International in Accra.
Source: graphic.com.gh