In response to the ongoing debate around financial expectations in gospel music, Pastor Femi Lazarus has publicly acknowledged Timi Dakolo’s support for gospel artists.
Posting on Instagram, Lazarus shared a picture of himself with Dakolo and Pastor Emmanuel Iren, calling Dakolo a “music legend” and urging the public to recognize his contributions.
Lazarus expressed admiration for Dakolo’s genuine concern for musicians, stating, “My brother #timidakolo is a music legend. Give him his flowers. What a man! He genuinely carries the burdens of musicians. His concerns are real. I love you.”
The pastor emphasized the need for improvements within the gospel music industry, assuring that both event hosts and performers would strive for better outcomes in the future.
“Pain is real. From pulpit to pew, the pain is real, but we will be fine. This generation will not carry over pain,” Lazarus added. “Better structures will be built. Hosts will do better. Guests will do better. We will have a better nation together.”
This acknowledgment comes amid a larger discussion sparked by Lazarus’ earlier sermon, where he criticized the financial demands of gospel musicians. Dakolo challenged Lazarus’ views, advocating for fair compensation for gospel artists.
In a public exchange, Dakolo questioned Lazarus for charging fees for his ministry school after the pastor criticized a gospel singer’s fee demands.
Lazarus later clarified his position, distinguishing between “music ministers” and “music artists.” He argued that gospel ministers should not commercialize their calling, suggesting that they should seek alternative income unless they have a divine calling for full-time ministry.
Lazarus also called for greater support from pastors to help struggling music ministers, acknowledging that many do not receive the necessary backing from their churches.
