Pastor Femi Lazarus has spoken out against gospel artists charging fees to perform in church, revealing that some demand as much as $10,000.
At a recent sermon shared online, the Abuja-based pastor questioned why gospel musicians will charge as high as $10,000 to perform in churches.
Sharing a ‘rider’ document from a gospel artist, it outlined demands that have to be met for him and his 40-man entourage, such as first-class seat for the musicians and economy placements for his entourage; an executive suite in a five-star hotel for him while his four primary male assistants were also lodged in another executive suit.
Others are: the church is mandated to provide three square meals for the musicians and crew who preferred local cuisines; and a $10,000 honorarium, 50% to be paid up front and the balance unfailingly paid two days before the event.
Condemning the practice, the clergyman said such puts a price on a gift from God and forces artists to be performative to justify their fees.
He emphasized the importance of performing in church without charge, citing gospel star, Nathaniel Bassey, as an example.
Recall that Pastor Chris Oyakhilome recently accused the music industry of constantly cheating the church.
He accused the artists of using the church to advance their interests by honing their skills before leaving to make secular music.
