Nigerian Christians Criticize US Gospel Singers Over Collaboration With GloRilla
US rapper GloRilla has stirred up controversy in Nigeria’s Christian community following the release of her debut album, GLORIOUS. The 15-track project, featuring artists like Megan Thee Stallion, Latto, T-Pain, and gospel legend Kirk Franklin, has drawn particular backlash over a song titled “Rain Down on Me,” which blends hip-hop and gospel.
The involvement of prominent gospel singers—Kirk Franklin, Maverick City Music, Kierra Sheard, and Chandler Moore—has sparked a wave of criticism from Nigerian Christians. Many are upset by the collaboration, accusing the gospel artists of promoting immorality by working with mainstream figures known for their secular music. Among the vocal critics is Jaymikee, son of evangelist Mike Bamiloye, who took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his displeasure.
Jaymikee criticized the idea of blending gospel with music that contradicts Christian values, stating: “You can’t feature in an album that promotes immorality… and claim to be ministering.” He called the move deceptive, arguing that it does not effectively reach the unsaved, as some might claim.
This sentiment was echoed by other Nigerians, with some users referencing prominent Nigerian gospel artists. One commenter, @Spiricoco, drew comparisons, stating: “Dunsin Oyekan cannot feature Arya Star by mistake. Theophilus Sunday cannot feature Zinolesky by accident,” emphasizing that true gospel ministers would not collaborate with secular artists.
The controversy comes at a time when Nigerian Christians are particularly sensitive to maintaining the purity of gospel music. The blending of gospel and secular music continues to be a topic of debate within religious circles, with this latest collaboration fueling the divide.
