Tim Godfrey defends paid gigs: saying ‘Even evangelical artists

Nigerian gospel singer Tim Godfrey has defended the practice of gospel artistes charging for performances, stressing that service and professionalism can coexist.

In a post shared on social media on Friday, Godfrey expressed that although many still believe that gospel musicians should perform for free, the reality is that running a sustainable ministry requires financial support and fair compensation.

The award-winning singer recounts his early days in music when he often performed for prizes instead of money and also argues that charging a fee does not make artists less spiritual but ensures they can continue their ministry in a sustainable manner.

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Godfrey recounts an encounter that was both humbling and eye-opening: after performing at a religious event, he received “a tuber of yam and a live chicken” as an honorarium.

“I once collected sweet potato tubers and a live chicken as honorarium. Is that what I should use to support my family?” he asked rhetorically, emphasizing that gospel artists, like any other artist, have bills to pay and families to support.” he wrote on social media.