The Gospel Music Industry needs to be owned by the creators, gospel labels and those who support it via media, retail etc. In my opinion, this would solve some of the major problems that we face in our industry regarding support for our genre. Gospel Music creators have always had the advantage of a built in support system via the black church and black media. We need to return back to the church for the revival of the industry. We need to support those media outlets that support us and continue to spearhead new media ventures that will help the genre. That can only happen if we(the above afformentioned) are in control and truly sold out to the genre.
Unfortunately there are not enough Gospel Music creators who see the value in ownership especially as it pertains to royalties/publishing/licensing etc. This is a result of a lack of knowledge. To many Gospel Music creators succumb to the allure of popularity in a niche market. The trade of popularity for independence will always be a sticking point for those who do not see the value in one's self and creative works. We have many Gospel Artists who are popular but own very little.
Lastly, our genre is rooted in the good news of Jesus Christ. There are those who seek to expand the content of our genre by veering from the substance that makes Gospel so powerful. I think that is a mistake. The sound of Gospel is rooted in its substance and style. Styles change but if you change the substance you have changed the original intent of the genre.
Sincerely,
Phillip Carter
Independent Gospel Artist Alliance
Artist, Producer, Label Owner, Songwriter
