Stakeholders and dignitaries in the music Industry as well as gatekeepers in the gospel music sub-sector have spoken on the need to execute initiatives that grow the industry.
Popular music producer and label owner of Coded Tunes, ID CABASSA, who was one of the speakers at the 2nd edition of the EeZee Global Mindustry Conference held in Lagos, emphasised on the need for Christians to look beyond the church. He added that this doesn’t reduce the function of the gospel but in essence, improves the true worth of Christians.
“The Gospel sends light forth. That’s what the Bible told us. Even our Lord Jesus knows we are in this world, and that’s why he made us light. There is no industry separated from another; we all do the same thing. The only difference in ours is that we are doing this to the glory of the Lord. These guys out there are your colleagues. It’s the same way you have bankers who are either Christians or not as colleagues. But we must be the light and seek knowledge. Cabasa emphasised the need to seek knowledge. While quoting scriptures to support his claims.
“The Holy book makes us aware that we perish because of the lack of wisdom. The Bible also tells us to learn from the ants. This explains what we are meant to seek as Christians in the industry. Do not take away the part of learning that’s where we can become better in our various crafts.
Speaking on the idea behind the conference, Ezekiel Onyedikachi, Thank God, Record Label Owner, EeZee Conceptz emphasised the need to hold conversations that analyse the growth and projects of the future of the Nigerian Gospel Music Industry.
“The goal is to be intentional about growth. We want the industry to grow. That’s what we are all about. We have been holding this conference for a while and the goal has always been the same. We want to equip our people with knowledge. Knowledge of copyright, knowledge in knowing how to go about promoting our songs, knowledge of when to open up for partnerships and collaboration, Knowledge on being aware of how music distribution works and how music rights are allocated. We want the space to expand. That’s why we are here to learn from experts.
In the same light, Award-winning entertainment lawyer, Foza Doza who was also a speaker at the event enlightened gospel music creatives at events on copyright and music licensing. Foza pointed out that the minister must understand the act of licensing.
“You must understand not just the act but also the need for proper documentation and licensing. Learn to go into contracts as much as possible. Music is brutal and does not recognise family but as Christians we must be loving and also knowledgeable.
“The people of God need to live above mediocrity and by truth. Our colleagues in the secular world understand the business of music. Entertainment controls culture and shapes what you accept or believe. If we as Christians want to survive in this space, we must obey the rules. We must understand the rules. But we must be godly.”
Other speakers at the event are Music Maestro, Tosin Alao; music producer, Dr. Edward Sunday; Minister GUC; Mike Abdul, Dr. Tim Ogboruche and a lot more.
