Emmanuel Edwin Kusaasira better known as Coopy Bly has come out to address what he believes is an issue with today’s gospel music in Uganda.
Through his latest single ‘Pita Pata’, the multi award winning Christian musician, writer and producer pointed out that Gospel music should be music with a purpose, which includes encouraging the Body of Christ and preaching the word of God with the hope of bringing salvation to non-believers.
Coopy Bly made a call to fellow artists to bring the “gospel back to gospel music.” He wonders why some have resorted to ‘Pita Pata’ music, referring to songs deemed gospel yet have no biblical significance.
“No matter what you are singing, if you are not preaching, that is not gospel music,” he said.
Far beyond the drums and dances, Coopy observed that gospel music should point towards the cross and should stand the test of God’s Word.
He made reference to Hebrews 4:12 and Matthew 5:13-16, which talks about being salt and light to the world.
Specializing in the genres of Reggae, Dancehall and Raga, Coopy Bly is known for hit songs such as ‘Wakayima’, ‘One Body’ (ft Pr Wilson Bugembe), ‘Unstoppable’ (ft Robinsan), ‘Sidda Mukyalo’, ‘Nyweza’, ‘What a Love’ and ‘Akikwasaganya’.
Coopy Bly’s latest release received applause from artists like Zabuli who commented:
“You are the definition of truth never dies. General in my generation. Me am a servant who agrees with everything you said in this jam. Keep going papa. Glad to have been born at such a time as this with real unashamed Christians like you to serve side by side with. God is proud of us for standing for the truth. Unapologetic.”
Brian Lubega remarked: “Thanks for this reminder, God bless you abundantly.”
Earlier this year, Christian media personality DJ Awar raised concern over the “emptiness” in Uganda’s gospel music.
Listening to Coopy Bly’s release on Friday, he was glad someone has once again come up to address the matter.
“‘We call it Gospel music not because of it’s beats but because of the substance it carries. But you seem more focused on the beat and not the message. When was the last time you stopped and asked whether you are still on course? My brother/sister, bring back the Gospel to your music. The genres don’t matter, they’re just forms. What makes and sets apart what you do from all the noise is the sound doctrine incorporated in the music! My friend you are misplaced, get back on course! Stop entertaining and start ministering,” DJ Awar said then.
What Christians online say about Coopy Bly’s new song
“Gospel music is ministry. It’s the message, not a melody, hook and beat. Its the wrong inspiration if a gospel artist wants to hit charts on the main stream, go on tour yet there’s no theology in the song,” Emmanuel Ononge reacted.
“Gospel music should minister to ones spirit. Thank you Coopy Bly for boldly coming out to highlight this, I believe the fellow ministers have received the message in good faith…that’s the body of Christ,” Sekamatte Isaac Kivumu said, after listening to the song.
“Truth, the gospel artists need to spend more time in the presence of God before releasing songs. Especially here in Uganda,” Karungi Prima said.
