Nigerian gospel music icon and co-founder of Spaghetti Records, Mike Abdul, has said that ‘intentional structure’ is lacking in the gospel music industry, pointing out that the current space often overlooks the creative, professional, and organizational aspects needed to propel the genre to greater heights.
“What’s missing is intentional structure; not just in sound, but in strategy. Many gospel artistes are gifted, but we sometimes neglect the creative, professional, and organisational aspects.”
He emphasized that gospel music needs to be spiritually potent, technically excellent, and culturally relevant. “We need to make gospel music culturally relevant, spiritually potent, and technically excellent all at the same time. We also need more authentic storytelling that speaks the language of today’s generation without watering down the gospel,” Abdul said.
He noted that his team is working towards creating that framework. “We are doing our part by nurturing talent, building systems, and experimenting boldly. My goal is to help gospel music feel fresh again, not just familiar. I want younger artistes to know that innovation and consecration can coexist.”
Abdul shared his personal lessons: “Talent opens doors, but structure keeps them open. The industry demands more than inspiration; it takes consistency, professionalism, and strategy. I have also learned to evolve without losing my identity.”
He urged his younger fans to embrace courage in the pursuit of purpose: “Creativity has no limits when it’s rooted in purpose. You don’t have to fit into a box to be effective. You can be spiritual and still be streetwise; entertaining and still edifying. Be bold, be expressive, and stay true to your calling, whatever sound it comes in.”
