Headies Denies Sidelining Gospel Artistes
The organisers of The Headies have dismissed claims that gospel artistes are sidelined from major award categories, insisting that faith-based musicians remain eligible to compete for mainstream honours.
In a statement shared on its official Instagram handle, Headies said its record contradicts suggestions that gospel artistes are excluded. It pointed to previous successes by musicians including Lara George, Kefee, Nikki Laoye and Timi Dakolo. The organisers also pointed to the Inspirational Single category as a dedicated platform for recognising music that promotes faith, hope and positive values.
The clarification followed an open letter by Afrogospel singer Gaise Baba. He questioned why gospel and inspirational musicians appeared to receive limited consideration in some of the award’s major categories.
Gaise Baba argued that artistes should be judged by the quality, sound, and impact of their work. He said they should not be restricted because of the religious message in their songs.
“A rap record is a rap record,” he wrote, arguing that a song should remain eligible for its appropriate genre category whether its lyrics focus on wealth, relationships, social issues or faith.
He also questioned whether commercially successful gospel songs such as “Favour” and his collaboration with Lawrence Oyor, “No Turning Back II,” were being adequately considered alongside mainstream Nigerian records.
Gaise Baba further recalled his experience as a Headies nominee. He noted that the Inspirational Music category was among those not announced during the main ceremony at one edition. He argued that nominees invest time in publicity, preparations and attendance. Therefore, he said they should receive proper recognition when a category has been created by the organisers.
