Why should gospel musicians be poor? - Brother Sammy on charging for shows

Ghanaian gospel musician, Brother Sammy, has weighed in on the debate over whether gospel musicians should charge for their shows.

In an interview with Neat FM on March 29, 2024, the popular gospel minister questioned why artistes in his field should be poor.

He pointed out that many critics tend to ignore the fact that gospel music is also a source of income for the artistes involved.

"I refuse to be broke! Why should gospel musicians and pastors always be poor?"

“It is the work of God. Why do people like ignoring the second part? There is God and there is work, so in as much as we are doing it for God, we also deserve to get paid for work done,” he said.

Reacting to one of his colleagues who only accepts donations instead of charging for performances, Brother Sammy said it is a personal choice.

He also recounted a personal experience where he traveled to Mankessim to perform at a church for a pastor, but never received any payment.

“After the performance, I was waiting for him to sort me out with something small for my services. He never showed up.

“That night I had to sleep on a chair provided by the security man. The next day, I had to walk to the bus station and use the little money in my pocket to get back home. That pastor had even used my name to raise funds and I never got any of it,” he added.

Stressing the need for gospel artistes to be paid for their services, Brother Sammy said he would even prefer them to be paid upfront for performances to avoid such situations.

ID/EB

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