In aSobering reflection on the state of Uganda’s gospel music industry, President Lanek has sounded an alarm that’s sparking conversation across the Church and creative circles
“Gospel music in uganda has changed a lot”, Lanek stated. “In the past, songs praised God, taught His word, and touched people’s hearts. They brought hope, peace, and helped people through hard times”
From Ministry to Entertainment
According to Lanek, the shift is unmistakable. what was once a vessel for ministry has, in many cases become centered on entertainment.
“Today, many gospel songs have lost that meaning”, he observed. “The Lyrics are shallow, and the songs do not last. They come and go quickly because they no longer carry the word of God”
He argues that without Scripture as the anchor, songs may trend for a week but fail to transform a life .The result is music that excites but does not disciple-music that moves crowds but does not move people clover to God
The Character Question
Lanek’s concern goes beyond lyrics to the lives of the artists themselves. He notes a growing disconnect between public ministry and private accountability.
“Another concern is the life of the artists. Many gospel artists no longer have a spiritual covering or a home church. They move from church to church, and some have poor character”, he said. “Their lifestyle, image and dress code are are not Christlike”.
This absence of accountability, he warns, has consequences. “Because of this, the body of christ is no longer embracing them. Many pastor have stepped back because they do not see accountability or true ministry”.
A Call to Return
For Lanek, gospel music was never meant to be just another genre. “Gospel music was meant to lives and draw people closer to God”, he emphasised.
His cry is not one of condemnation, but of restoration. He is calling artists, producers, and church leaders back to the original purpose: “There is a need to return to that purpose -to bring back truth, character, and the presence of God in the music”.
- Truth in lyrics – Songs must be rooted in the word, not just personal feelings or trends.
- Character in the lifestyle – Artists need spiritual covering, a home church, and a life that matches the message.
- God’s presence as the goal– Not views, not fame, not bookings- but encounters that change people.
The Road Ahead
Lanek’s statement adds to a growing chorus of leaders urging introspection in Uganda’s gospel scene. With withholding tax debates, copyright law pending, and new government funding entering the sector, his message refocuses the conversation: structure matters, but so does substance
“The music will only be as strong as the men and women behind it”, Lanek concluded. ” If we fix the alter, we will fix the art”.