Shola Allyson-Obaniyi, popularly known as Shola Allyson, is a Nigerian soul and folk singer, and song-writer.
Today 1st of June 2017, Shola shared her thoughts on the idea of gospel music. She had this to say:
” What is gospel music?
Is it about how much noise we make when we sing?
Is it about making people dance and shout? Would that not be JUST entertainment? And I’m not saying entertainment is wrong o, we need it to “ginger” us?.
But are we not focusing more on that nowadays in church services and other faith-based events? And as a “gospel” musician, have you not lost your own calling by doing what seems popular and acceptable nowadays? So would you call yourself a gospel singer or a popular (pop) singer?
Why are you against Wizkid and Davido and Olamide and saying they’re worldly? Guys who are more sincere and straightforward than you “saved” ones are? At least they let us know where they stand! I love their sincerities!
After each of your performances (ministrations), do you think of what “gospel” was in it for your audience? Or you’re just satisfied because the hall was upside down as people shouted, danced and “swagged”? And you choose to see it as “God was present”?! Because of smoke effect?
You’re afraid to be true to that gentle nudge inside because you won’t be popular?
What is gospel? What is gospel music? Who is a Gospeller?
Do we reach the hearts of people at all with our music? Is it not that we’re assaulting their souls and making them confused?
With the rise in the number of us that want to be called “gospel musician”, what is the result we get in contributing to TRUE salvation which is the main reason for the GOSPEL?
What would Christ do? Is it not looking like the situation in the temple where he angrily beat people, and drove them out, leaders inclusive?
What is gospel music gan? And who is a gospel musician?
May we all be open to true Help.”
ABOUT SHOLA ALLYSON
In 1997 Shola Allyson gained admission into The Polytechnic, Ibadan to study Music Technology, majoring in Voice and minoring in Music. She acquired a Higher National Diploma (HND) degree with a Upper Credit.
Allyson started her career as a back-up singer in the late 1980s, when she was only thirteen. She later became a professional back-up singer and worked with musicians such as: Yinka Ayefele, Gbenga Adeboye, Pasuma, Obesere and Daddy Showkey.
