Gospel Music Should Focus on Legacy and Posterity, Not Awards

Gospel musician and pastor at the ICGC Christ Temple, Pastor Edwin Dadson, has shared his thoughts on the current direction of gospel music, urging artists to shift their focus away from chasing awards and popularity. He emphasized that gospel music should primarily aim to make a lasting impact by serving God and uplifting souls, rather than striving for temporary accolades.

In an insightful conversation on Daybreak Hitz with Doreen Avio, Pastor Dadson discussed the growing trend of gospel musicians prioritizing public recognition over the spiritual essence of their craft. While he acknowledged that receiving awards can be motivating, he cautioned that this should never overshadow the true purpose of gospel music. He explained, “If we keep following the popularity of music, we risk losing the essence and the quality that makes gospel music unique and spiritually enriching.”

Pastor Dadson’s concerns were especially apparent when he reflected on the recent introduction of the Best Urban/Contemporary Gospel Song category in the 2025 Telecel Ghana Gospel Music Awards (TGMA). While expressing his enthusiasm for the new category, he stressed that the award should not become the ultimate goal for gospel musicians. Instead, it should serve as an opportunity for artists to grow and push the boundaries of their craft, focusing on creating music that will stand the test of time. He further added, “It’s important to rise up to the challenge, but it shouldn’t just be about the awards. It’s about posterity and legacy—what happens after the recognition?”

The pastor’s remarks highlight his belief that gospel music’s true value lies in its ability to inspire and leave a lasting impact on listeners. Rather than focusing on temporary wins, such as receiving awards, gospel musicians should dedicate themselves to producing music that resonates deeply and creates a meaningful difference in the lives of their audience. “If I get an award, then what?” he questioned, urging musicians to think beyond the immediate prestige and to consider their long-term contribution to gospel music and the Christian faith.

Despite his caution, Pastor Dadson also acknowledged that awards have a place in the music industry, as they can serve to encourage and motivate artists. However, he urged that these accolades should not be the driving force behind their work. “It’s not about the award itself; it’s about making sure the music has a real impact. I don’t mind who wins, but I want to be proud of the artists who are making a difference, who challenge me to be better,” he said.

The new category in the TGMA has already received praise from several prominent gospel musicians, including Kingzkid, Scott Evans, and KobbySalm. These artists have expressed their appreciation for the opportunity the award presents. However, Pastor Dadson’s words serve as a reminder to gospel artists that their role is much larger than simply aiming for recognition. He believes the focus should remain on fulfilling the higher calling of gospel music: spreading the message of faith and uplifting others through their artistry.

Pastor Dadson also reflected on the broader challenges facing the gospel music landscape, noting that the industry has sometimes become more about showmanship and less about substance. He urged artists to return to the foundational values of gospel music—authenticity, sincerity, and devotion to God. For him, the essence of gospel music lies in its ability to inspire faith, offer hope, and bring spiritual comfort to listeners.

His vision for the future of gospel music is one where artists create a legacy, not for personal gain, but for the glory of God and the betterment of society. “What matters most is not the award but the legacy we leave behind,” Pastor Dadson concluded. His reflections are a call to action for gospel musicians to prioritize their craft’s spiritual impact, ensuring that their music continues to serve as a force for good long after the awards have been given.

In this way, Pastor Dadson’s message urges the gospel music industry to refocus on its core purpose: touching lives, elevating the spirit, and leaving an enduring legacy of faith and inspiration for future generations.