Renowned 63-year-old Nigerian actor and broadcaster, Patrick Rutherford Doyle, addressed the discontent among mainstream gospel artists following the 2024 BET Awards.
The controversy arose when 29-year-old Nigerian singer Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, won the Best Gospel/Inspirational Award for her song “Me & U” at the 2024 BET Awards held at the Peacock Theatre in Downtown Los Angeles on July 1.
Terms triumphed over major gospel stars such as Kirk Franklin with “All Things” and “Try Love,” CeCe Winans with “Come Jesus Come,” Maverick City Music, Naomi Raine & Chandler Moore with “God Problems,” Shirley Caesar with “Award All of the Glory,” Halle Bailey with “Angel,” and Erica Campbell with “Do You Believe in Love?”, which many consider being unfair.
Social media buzzed with reactions, with some mainstream gospel artists expressing shock and disappointment at the award going to Tems, who is primarily known for secular music.
In response, Patrick Doyle took to social media on his Facebook page, to express his understanding of their feelings but also to offer some stern advice.
Also Read:
BET Awards: Tems Wins Best Gospel/Inspirational Prize 2024
Nigerian Artists Shine at the 2024 BET Awards Nominations
Doyle acknowledged the pain felt by gospel artists who believed they were overlooked. However, he urged these artists to stop seeking validation from what he described as “fickle institutions” within the entertainment industry, which he believes are under negative influences.
“I feel the pain of mainstream gospel artists who feel slighted that Tems, an evidently secular musician, was awarded the BET award for best gospel song. That said, I believe it’s about time that committed Christians stop seeking validation from fickle institutions like the entertainment industry mafia, which by the way is in the grip of Satan,” Doyle stated.
He urged gospel singers not to depend on recognition from mainstream award platforms, emphasizing a need for gospel artists to focus on their spiritual mission rather than industry accolades.
