BET Award To Tems In The Gospel Category Is Profoundly Insulting –Asu Ekiye

By Daniel Dafe

Popular gospel musician, Asu Ekiye has said that “the decision by BET to award Tems in the gospel category at the recent BET Awards is profoundly insulting.”

Ekiye who expressed his displeasure over the development in a Facebook post on Monday night, added that “this action epitomizes a convoluted compromise by BET.”

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He continued: “The category, which includes stalwarts such as Kirk Franklin, CeCe Winans, Shirley Caesar, Mary Mary, Maverick City, Naomi Raine, and Chandler Moore, should not be one where Tems, a secular artist, is even considered. The lyrics of the song “Me and You” do not even fit into the conventional gospel mold.”

According to him, “the persistent undermining of gospel music by secular influences is alarming, and it is distressing that gospel musicians fail to recognize the magnitude of this conspiracy.”

“In Nigeria, the lack of recognition for gospel awards is stark; most gospel artistes often ignore them in favor of secular accolades. This trend underscores a disconcerting disregard for the importance of synergy, deliberation, and collaboration within the gospel music community. It is imperative that we begin to re-evaluate our priorities and support structures to preserve the sanctity and power of gospel music,” he concluded.