Award-winning gospel musician Christiana Love, popularly known as Obaapa Christy, has challenged Ghanaians to change what she describes as a culture of reserving appreciation for public figures until after their death.

The celebrated singer and preacher made the remarks during the launch of her upcoming concert, Royal Praise, at Alisa Hotel in Accra, where she reflected on her more than two decades of ministry and music.

According to Obaapa Christy, many musicians dedicate their lives to inspiring, entertaining and uplifting society, yet receive their greatest recognition only when they are no longer alive to witness it. She believes artistes and ministers who have made significant contributions deserve to be celebrated while they are still active and able to enjoy the appreciation of their supporters.

“As for me, don’t wait for me to die before celebrating me. It has been a long journey of ups and downs, but we are still here today. So I’m asking Ghanaians to celebrate me now. They shouldn’t say Obaapa Christy has been here for long, so she should retire and then, when I’m no more on earth, that is when I will be celebrated,” she stated.

Obaapa Christy, known for hit songs such as ‘Hyebre Sesafo’, ‘W’aseda Ben’ and ‘Mogya Kronkron’, has remained one of Ghana’s most influential gospel musicians despite facing personal and professional challenges throughout her career.

She also dismissed suggestions that veteran gospel musicians should gradually step away from active ministry because of their years in the industry. In her view, gospel music is a divine calling that transcends age and longevity, making it inappropriate to place limits on those who still have a message to share.

Speaking about her upcoming Royal Praise concert, the gospel star expressed gratitude for the opportunity to headline a major event under her own banner, describing it as a dream that had taken years to materialise.

“Headlining a major event is not about who came first or who started early. As a Christian, I strongly believe in the timing of God because my team and I conceived this idea long ago and even planned to launch it right after my 20th anniversary celebrations.

“But as mortals, our ways and desires are different from God’s, so in His own time, He made a way for us to launch and host Royal Praise this year,” she said.

As preparations continue for Royal Praise, Obaapa Christy says her focus remains on ministry, inspiring lives through music and building a legacy that can be appreciated both now and for generations to come.

Source: Yvonne Nyarko Agyemang