In a passionate defense of the viral gospel song “Never Going Back” by Gaise Baba and Lawrence Oyor, renowned evangelist and filmmaker Mike Bamiloye has urged Christians to look beyond the artists’ appearance and focus on the song’s powerful message. The upbeat track, which blends Yoruba lyrics with modern rhythms, has resonated with Nigerian youth, racking up over 4 million streams.
While many have celebrated the song’s refreshing style, some Christian critics have taken issue with the artists’ bold fashion choices and energetic dance moves featured in the music video. However, Bamiloye believes this criticism misses the point. “The lyrics say: ‘Ife Jesu lo wa mi ri, to gbami ku o’ — ‘The love of Jesus sought me, found me, and died for me.’ That’s the gospel in Yoruba rhythm and sound!” he wrote, lamenting that some people are more fixated on Gaise’s hair color and Lawrence’s headband than the song’s message.
Bamiloye emphasized the need for the church to engage with younger generations through gospel content that speaks to their experiences and tastes. He warned that constant criticism may push them towards secular alternatives that may not be as uplifting. “If they’re not listening to something like ‘Never Going Back,’ they’ll be listening to something else—and let’s be honest, a lot of what’s out there isn’t helping them know Jesus,” he said.
Instead of criticism, Bamiloye advocates for encouragement and support for gospel artists who are reaching out to this generation in their own rhythm. “Rather than criticize, let’s encourage. Let’s support gospel expressions that speak to this generation in their own rhythm,” he urged, championing a more inclusive and supportive approach to spreading the gospel.
