Solomon Buchi Raises Concern Over Rising Obsession With Music Performance In Churches
Popular Nigerian writer and social commentator Solomon Buchi has stirred conversation across Christian circles after voicing concern over what he described as the “performance culture” creeping into modern worship.
In a post shared on his social media platforms, Buchi lamented that many churches today appear more focused on musical perfection and stagecraft than on genuine encounters with God. He noted that while music remains a powerful form of expression, it has, in some settings, become an end in itself rather than a means to worship.
“The church is slowly shifting from the heart of worship to entertainment,” he wrote. “It’s no longer about God. It’s about who sings better, who plays the drums perfectly, or whose voice carries the crowd. Worship is becoming performance-driven, and that’s not what God desires.”
Worship or Entertainment?
Buchi’s statement touched a nerve among believers who have observed the same trend in contemporary church culture. He emphasized that true worship is not a concert, and that the goal of every worship moment should be reverence, humility, and intimacy with God — not applause from an audience.
He explained that while sound, lighting, and production quality can enhance worship, they should never take center stage or distract from God’s presence.
“Music is a gift from God,” Buchi noted, “but when it becomes a competition for attention, it loses its essence. Worship must come from the heart, not from performance.”
Mixed Reactions Online
His remarks quickly went viral, drawing thousands of reactions from both church leaders and ordinary believers. Many agreed with his point, saying that some worship sessions today resemble professional concerts rather than moments of spiritual encounter.
A commenter wrote, “He’s right. We’ve become obsessed with excellence and forgotten the essence.”
Others, however, defended the evolution of worship music, arguing that creativity and excellence can still glorify God when motivated by sincere devotion.
“We can have good music and good hearts at the same time,” one user replied. “Excellence is not the enemy of worship — pride is.”
A Call Back to the Heart of Worship
Despite the differing opinions, Buchi’s post has reignited an important discussion within the Christian community: how to balance creativity with authenticity in worship.
He urged choir members, instrumentalists, and worship leaders to focus less on performance and more on presence — to let their music point people toward God rather than themselves.
“True worship isn’t measured by skill or sound,” he said. “It’s measured by surrender.”
As churches continue to evolve in style and presentation, Buchi’s message serves as a gentle reminder that worship, at its core, remains an intimate conversation between Creator and creation — not a show to impress the crowd.
A Timely Reflection
In an age where lights, choreography, and high-end sound systems have become part of the modern worship experience, Buchi’s call to simplicity resonates deeply. His words challenge believers to ask a difficult but necessary question:
Are we truly worshipping, or are we performing?
