Why I’m refusing to take sides in the ‘Gospel vs CCM’ debate

Over the past few weeks, a lot has been said about the direction of Christian music - particularly the divide between traditional Gospel and Contemporary Christian Music (CCM). The conversation picked up serious momentum after Norman Gyamfi, co-founder of Maverick City Music, shared some strong opinions on The Isaac Carree Show. His remarks, though rooted in honesty, struck a major chord - especially within the Black Gospel community.

Gyamfi argued that gospel music has become “stale” and “over‑sung,” suggesting that the style no longer connects as widely as it once did. He went on to explain how Maverick City’s music, with its simpler arrangements and broader accessibility, has made waves by merging the richness of gospel vocals with the sing-ability of CCM. He even stated that Maverick City Music “out streams” the entire gospel industry combined - sparking deeper questions about reach, relevance and representation.

Beauty in diversity

Unsurprisingly, many artists and listeners on both sides of the debate were hurt. And I get it. As someone who has been heavily influenced by both Gospel and CCM, I see both the beauty and the tension here. Gyamfi’s comments came across as dismissive and disrespectful to a lot of people, but I would like to believe they were intended to spark progress, not insult tradition.

Gospel music is not just a genre, it’s a legacy; a lifeline for many, especially in the Black community. It has carried stories of pain, perseverance and praise through slavery, segregation and suffering. It’s sacred. It’s powerful. It’s needed.

The moment our identity gets wrapped up in a sound instead of the Saviour, we’ve missed it

At the same time, CCM - often less vocally complex and more congregational in nature - has opened doors to new generations and cultures. It’s accessible. It’s relatable. It’s also needed. What’s dangerous, though, is when the conversation becomes about sides. Gospel vs CCM. Us vs them. Tradition vs innovation. That’s not the heart of Jesus.

Worship was never meant to be boxed into genres. Scripture paints a vibrant, diverse picture of worship in which we are instructed to “sing to the Lord a new song” (Psalm 96:1). That’s space for creativity, innovation and change. It says that God is always ready to give us new ideas and breathe in new ways for us to worship him. That’s his heart.

The heart of worship

Scripture also says: “Let everything that has breath praise the Lord” (Psalm 150:6). That’s an all-inclusive call, regardless of style. God isn’t impressed by vocal runs any more than he is by minimalistic choruses. He’s after our hearts. Whether we worship through the passionate power and complex chords of Gospel, or the quiet intimacy and soft rock sound of a CCM ballad, the goal is ultimately the same: to lift up Jesus.

Both Gospel and CCM bring something irreplaceable to the table. Gospel music carries depth, cultural identity and unmatched emotion. It teaches us to press through pain and find joy. On the other hand, CCM offers simplicity, wide accessibility and a bridge into spaces where Gospel music might not be heard. Arguing about which one is ‘better’ is futile and unnecessary. We’re on the same team. The body of Christ needs both lungs to breathe properly.

God isn’t impressed by vocal runs any more than he is by minimalistic choruses

As an artist who’s been shaped by both cultures, I can confidently say that it’s not about genre, it’s about Jesus. The moment our identity gets wrapped up in a sound instead of the Saviour, we’ve missed it. This isn’t the time to divide; it’s the time to unite. Let’s build a Church that sings in many languages and styles. In heaven, there will be just one sound - one that cries out: “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty” (Revelation 4:8).

So, on this side of eternity, let the debates die down and let the worship rise up.