Ghanaian gospel sensation, Diana Hamilton, has countered Nigerian singer Nathaniel Bassey‘s recent suggestion that Ghanaian musicians should predominantly sing in English to gain global recognition.
Hamilton contends that the essence of music lies in its spiritual message and impact on people’s lives, dismissing Bassey’s concerns about language barriers.
In an interview with Serwaa Amihere on GhOne TV, Hamilton expressed her disagreement with Nathaniel Bassey’s advice, asserting that the language in which gospel music is sung is secondary to its spiritual essence.
She emphasised that singing in local dialects does not hinder a musician’s career and cited her own success while blending English and Twi in her songs.
“Pastor Nathaniel [Bassey] made a statement about what he thinks, but is that what is working everywhere? I don’t think so. But everyone is entitled to their own opinion,” Hamilton stated. She highlighted the importance of expressing oneself in the first language and emphasised that judging others based on language choices is not justified.
Nathaniel Bassey had sparked controversy with his assertion that Ghanaian gospel musicians could achieve global success by primarily singing in English rather than local dialects like Twi.
Some artists took offence, arguing that his comments undermined their potential and contribution to the gospel music scene.
See video below:
"I don't believe singing in your local dialect is a problem, music is spiritual…" – Diana Hamilton#GHToday #Ghana #GospelMusic #DianaHamilton #GHOneTV pic.twitter.com/KFNzCrFipH
— GHOne TV (@ghonetv) January 25, 2024