Why Some Gospel Musicians Transition to Secular Music – Ric Hassani Explains
Nigerian singer Ric Hassani has offered insight into why many gospel artists eventually shift to secular music, stating that the move is often rooted in purpose and personal fulfilment, rather than the pursuit of financial gain.
Speaking during an interview with Hip TV, the Thunder Fire You crooner revealed that he also started his musical journey in the church, but later realised that gospel ministration wasn’t aligned with his unique calling as a creative.
“Gospel music isn’t just about singing well,” Hassani said. “You need a divine ability to interpret and convey God’s word through music. Not everyone has that gift.”
He cited artists like CeCe Winans as examples of individuals truly anointed to minister through music. “There’s a reason someone like Katy Perry can’t do what CeCe does, even if she started out in gospel. They are wired differently,” he added.
Hassani stressed that although he considers himself a strong Christian and always includes at least one gospel track in his albums, his broader purpose lies outside traditional gospel music. “I’m not going to do it the way Mercy Chinwo or Frank Edwards does. That’s not my path,” he explained. “If I switch to gospel full-time, I probably won’t thrive. It’s just not my thing.”
Addressing the assumption that gospel artists abandon the genre for more lucrative opportunities, the singer argued that creative fulfilment is often the stronger motivation. “Yes, everyone likes money. But the deeper satisfaction for creatives comes from being able to express an idea and bring it to life through music,” he said.
Using successful secular artists as examples, he noted, “If it was all about money, Davido wouldn’t bother with music at all – he already has generational wealth. The drive goes beyond that.”
Hassani’s comments add a nuanced perspective to the ongoing conversation about gospel-to-secular transitions, suggesting that for many artists, the choice is less about commercial gain and more about finding an authentic voice and purpose in their craft.
