Kofi Sarpong: "High branding" is not exclusive to secular acts

Because he believes that gospel musicians' strong brand and image are unnecessary in an era where things are changing quickly, he disagrees with industry professionals who have taken a strong stand against them.

In a recent interview with Graphic Showbiz, Kofi Sarpong claimed that a number of gospel performers had been forced into "compulsory meekness" in order to project what was perceived to be their "hallmark" persona.

Though it might be challenging to discuss these topics without drawing unwarranted criticism, I believe it's important to let people know that things are improving and that if we continue to hold Ghanaian gospel musicians to particular standards, the sector will dearly pay for it.

"I find it depressing that the gospel music industry appears to be in a state of decline, while secular artists are creating innovative strategies to enhance their music, project a positive image, and establish powerful brands."

People now hold online church services as a result of the changing times. Even after the COVID-19 pandemic, some people may not have attended their church, but they nevertheless gather every Sunday virtually.

This should demonstrate to us that things are changing and that the time when gospel performers were viewed as "colo" is long gone.

Furthermore, it is unrealistic to presume that all listeners of gospel music are devout Christians or fearful of God, therefore you must first capture their interest before attempting to convey your message.

He said, "So how do you make progress when the audience doesn't even think you worthy to pay attention to because you lack certain things he/she is looking for?" The discussions over how certain Gospel musicians, particularly the women, are using their fashion sense to "high brand" themselves rather than their messages are fueled by Kofi Sarpong's remarks.

Gospel singer Patience Nyarko stirred up debates last year when she said that some of her colleagues were pressuring God to take a backseat in the name of "high branding" in an interview with Graphic Showbiz.

Remarkably, another gospel musician, Lenny Akpadie, recently attacked some other gospel artists harshly for, in his opinion, degrading the spirituality of gospel music by bringing attention to themselves through their allegedly sensual attire.

Kofi Sarpong told Graphic Showbiz that while he didn't explicitly address their viewpoints, he respected people's freedom of speech and wished to dispel the myth that gospel music is a cheap commodity.

Instead of focusing solely on clothing, let's talk about how effective branding may help gospel musicians become more successful.

Diana Hamilton, in addition to her musical career, has established herself as a brand ambassador for Enterprise Life.

I don't imagine Diana or any other artist would have secured such a deal if they had a "poor appearance." In a similar vein, a few other artists have drawn the attention of corporate Ghana. Their songs could be spiritual and all, but what comes next? He asked.

"Today's gospel performers don't stand in front of churches, bushes, or fountains to record films; instead, they travel to beautiful settings.

We're moving forward, so when we stop talking about dressing, we stop moving forward," he said. Tomorrow, Friday, March 29, Kofi Sarpong's first song of 2024, Yehowa, featuring Diana Hamilton, will be released.