Ghanaian gospel musician Christiana Twene, popularly known as Obaapa Christy, has revealed that many upcoming gospel artistes perform her songs without seeking her approval, but she does not consider it an issue that should lead to confrontation.

The award-winning singer explained that she understands the actions of younger musicians because established artistes, including herself and her peers, also relied on songs from older gospel ministers when they were building their careers.

According to Obaapa Christy, the major difference between her era and today is the availability of digital platforms, which have made it easier for emerging artistes to reach wider audiences.

“Many young musicians use my songs without permission. Back then, when we sang other people’s songs in church, we only had radio and television, and even those platforms were limited. Things have changed today, but does that mean you have to have people arrested just because they sang your song? We also sang other people’s songs before we got to where we are today,” she said.

The “Moving Forward” hitmaker said she would rather encourage young talents than pursue them for performing her music, noting that such opportunities can help them grow their audience.

“If social media had existed during our time, I’m sure many musicians from our generation would also have used other people’s songs to grow their platforms,” she added.

She further disclosed that some artistes have used her songs to build their online presence, particularly on platforms such as YouTube, where they have gained followers and created income streams.

“Some of them are even earning a living from the numbers they’ve built using my songs, and I don’t see that as a bad thing. God has a way of blessing all of us,” she said.

Obaapa Christy’s comments come ahead of the 2026 edition of her annual Royal Praise concert scheduled for August 9 at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA). The event will feature performances from gospel acts including Empress Gifty, Joyce Blessing, Uncle Ato, Celestine Donkor, Akesse Brempong and Kwaku Gyasi.

Her remarks have sparked conversations about copyright, mentorship and the role established musicians play in supporting the next generation of gospel artistes.

Watch the interview below:

“Do you always have to have people arrested for singing your song?” — Obaapa Christy#HitzPraiseZone pic.twitter.com/LSSL1T3J4c

— Hitz 103.9 FM (@Hitz1039FM) August 2, 2026

Source: Yvonne Nyarko Agyemang