Celestine Donkor, an award-winning Ghanaian gospel singer and songwriter, has issued unambiguous apologies to everyone who finds her recent statement on Nathaniel Bassey’s advise to Ghanaian gospel musicians offensive.
It will be remembered that the ‘Only You’ hitmaker stated on Joy FM’s X (previously) spaces with Kwame Dadzie on Wednesday, December 6, 2023, that her fellow Nigerian gospel artist, Nathaniel Bassey’s recent advise to Ghanaian gospel musicians was prompted by a sense of remorse. During his appearance at the Jesus Encounter Concert on December 2, 2023 at the Accra Sports Stadium, the ‘Jesus Iyee’ singer remarked that Ghanaian gospel singers should do more songs in English in order to reach a bigger audience around the world.
While appreciating Ghanaian gospel performers’ anointing, Nathaniel Bassey expressed concern about their frequent singing in local dialects, which limits their global recognition.
In response to the remark, Celestine Donkor stated that the appeal was made out of guilt, and that her colleague made the remark since most Nigerian artists get paid more in Ghana than Ghanaian artists.
“For me I think this prophecy was inspired by guilt. It was inspired by guilt because when you host a concert in somebody’s country, you put only two of their celebrated artists on their concert. And because you are feeling guilty about the whole thing clashing with some concerts that are already going on, you prophesy that our time will come,” she stated.
In a press release obtained by Ameyaw Debrah Media, the Ghanaian gospel music queen apologized for her remark. Some of her comments during the discussion, she claims, did not come across as intended.
‘I would like to sincerely say that, I do believe in prophetic utterances and do respect and honour Nathaniel Bassey. I sincerely apologize to all who find my comment on the issue in bad taste. That was not my intention at all. I will never disrespect the man of God,” portion of the statement read.
The singer also expressed gratitude for the feedback and criticism she received from Ghanaians, particularly her fans. She also stated that she feels gospel music is a tremendous weapon for conveying God’s love and message, and that her goal is to use it for his glory.
