Asu Ekiye, the Popular gospel musician, stated that “The decision by BET to award Tems in the gospel category at the recent BET Awards is profoundly insulting.”
Temilade Openiyi (a.k.a Tems), is a secular Nigerian singer, composer, and record producer. When Wizkid’s 2020 single “Essence” with Justin Bieber was released, it climbed at number 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, and that’s when she first gained notoriety.
Through a post on Facebook on Monday night, Ekiye voiced his disapproval of the development and said, “This action epitomizes a convoluted compromise by BET.”
Continuing, he stated, “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.”
The digital news platform further shows his continued expression, “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 added.
