Ghanaian gospel sensation Joe Mettle has advised creatives in the music industry to adopt a character that would help them grow in the industry.
According to him, the talent given by God is not enough to ensure success, but an attitude of learning is necessary.
Joe Mettle said this at the Band Experience Music Workshop in Manchester, UK, where he stressed the importance of character in achieving and maintaining success in the music industry.
“Gift is important, but the gift itself is not enough. You need to improve on the gift God has already given you. So, it’s great that you are in the room right now, adding more knowledge and experience from the people that also God has given grace to travel the world and do this amazing thing we call music. I also want to say one other thing, character is also necessary, because gifted as you can be without character, trust me, many people will find it difficult having to work with you,” he said.
Mettle encouraged aspiring musicians to focus on their musical abilities and personal development. While talent might open doors, only character can keep those doors open and ensure sustained success.
“Sometimes the gift will open the door for you, make a way for you to go to a place, but it is only character that will keep you there and running. I understand that sometimes it might look like you are being maltreated or not treated, right? That’s a different situation.
“But when you find yourself always having to move, because of how character made you react and everything, maybe you should check it [your character] again. And so, as you learn, improve, and grow in your craft, please be mindful that character is what will keep you there even though gift can open the door for you to get to that point,” he said.
