Concerning the lyrics of today’s music, Minister OJ has voiced concerns.
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Speaking on Taller Dee’s Journey to Heaven on No. 1 FM, 105.3, he discussed his efforts to steer clear of cliches and flimsy lyricism.
The renowned singer-songwriter and composer stated that modern musicians “have to reach out and go deeper in terms of content.”
“It’d appear some have recycled a lot of words: ‘Nobody likes you’, etc. It’s too much. Meanwhile, the bible encourages us to sing a new song unto the Lord,” he admonished.
In order to write original songs, OJ emphasized the value of delving “deep” into oneself.
“A ladder is what music is.”Songs resemble ladders. We ascend to higher spheres of existence. Thus, God will give you words when you continually reach deep within yourself. ”
He advocated deepening one’s spiritual practice and studying words to the point where, in his own words, “words will come to you.When I close my eyes, I can see words. Words are like light. They are glitter. They show up.”
“If today’s gospel musicians do not seek genuine inspiration from their intimate relationship with God, our lyrics will be repetitious and meaningless.”
Famous gospel musicians like Prof. Mark Abraham and Yaw Sarpong were praised by Minister OJ.
“They impacted me greatly because of the depth of their music and lyrics. Whenever I wrote, I tried to write as deeply as they did. I reach out deep within me to do that,” he said.
Another important hack to powerful lyrics, he added, was to “learn the language”.
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He asserted that there was a difference between casually speaking a language and understanding it.
“Ghanaians speak English but don’t really understand it. When you experience the English natives speaking their language, you’ll notice what we speak is shallow and just for conversations,” he said.
“I studied music at Prempeh College and also learned Asante Twi,” O.J. said, elucidating his dedication to being a superior musician and songwriter.
“I also did English literature. Due to this, I am able to deeply appreciate and function in both Twi and English.”
He emphasised the importance of keeping music, arts, and culture as integral parts of senior high school education, as he experienced in his days.
He continued, “I also studied music at the University of Ghana, Legon’s School of Performing Arts and Theatre Arts.”
