Bahati has expressed deep concerns about the state of the country’s gospel music industry, suggesting that it has weakened significantly compared to a decade ago.
The former gospel artist took to social media to voice his thoughts, attributing the shift in divine favor to countries like Nigeria and Rwanda.
“Kenya was and will continue to be a part of the gospel revival, but we may not be in a position to produce significant gospel brands as we did ten years ago. Why? Because God has shifted that favor to Nigeria and Rwanda,” Bahati wrote.
He noted that influential gospel artists from these countries, such as Sinach from Nigeria and Israel Mbonyi from Rwanda, have become new leaders in the genre, overshadowing Kenyan talent.
According to Bahati, the decline is not due to a lack of talent or good gospel music in Kenya, but rather the internal conflicts and pride among Kenyan evangelists.
“The truth is that the talents God nurtured in the church have turned into mutual hatred among themselves,” Bahati added.
He criticized the gospel industry for having more “puppets” than the secular world, pointing out that success in the gospel scene often leads to concerted efforts to bring down the successful individuals, unlike in the secular Gengetone music scene.
Bahati, who has mostly refrained from discussing church matters publicly, explained his reticence stems from a desire to avoid being accused of seeking attention. However, he felt compelled to speak out about the need for humility and repentance within the gospel community.
“I don’t like to talk much about church matters, and I know they know themselves. They will say I’m seeking attention, but the truth is I fear approaching this industry because I know how they hate each other,” he said.
Acknowledging his own imperfections, Bahati emphasized the importance of asking for forgiveness and moving away from being mere puppets, so that the gospel industry can be elevated to new heights.
“One thing I know is that we need to ask for forgiveness and stop being puppets so that God can take us to another level. Otherwise, I pray that God continues to lift Arbantone as we pretend to be deputies of Jesus and you are puppets,” he concluded.
Bahati’s candid remarks have sparked a conversation about the future of the Kenyan gospel industry and the need for introspection and unity among its artists.
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