Ghanaian gospel musician Uncle Ato has expressed his dissatisfaction with the way some churches treat their instrumentalists and musicians.
Speaking to TV3’s Showbiz 360, Uncle Ato based his concerns on Luke 10:7, which emphasizes that “every labourer deserves their wages.”
He urged churches to focus on taking better care of their musicians, stressing that they are vital contributors to the church’s work.
“The scripture makes it clear. In 1st Corinthians chapter 9, the bible says no soldier goes to war buying his own uniform and boots. He deserves to be taken care of,” Uncle Ato explained.
He also referenced Matthew 10, which underscores that laborers deserve their pay, asserting that churches should be providing for their musicians, just as they would any other laborer.
Even if churches are unable to pay musicians a regular salary, Uncle Ato suggested they should at least show concern for their welfare. “If you don’t put them on salary, prove to them that you care,” he advised.
The musician highlighted that church leaders are often unaware of the struggles their musicians face, from where they sleep to how they get to church.
He criticized the lack of empathy for the musicians’ well-being, stating, “We need to do it, even if we gather church monies and give out to orphanages and those on the street, what is the big deal if you have to support those who are contributing to the church? It’s not a problem at all.”
Uncle Ato, known for popular gospel songs like ‘Mensuro,’ ‘Jesus,’ ‘Aseda,’ ‘Kronkron,’ and ‘Mewo Anyidado,’ continues to advocate for better treatment of musicians within the church community.