By Nnasom David

Lagos-based gospel music artist Solomon Friday Macaulay, popularly known as Jedidiah, has stirred debate in the music industry after questioning the popular description of singer Chineyere Udoma as merely a gospel musician.

Speaking during an interview in Lagos, Jedidiah argued that the label does not fully reflect Udoma’s artistic depth and influence.

According to him, describing her strictly as a gospel artist limits the scope of her work and spiritual expression.

“People keep saying Chineyere Udoma is a gospel musician, but that’s too small and not entirely accurate,” he said. “Gospel music is a genre, but Chineyere operates on something deeper — spirituality, culture, healing, tradition and human emotion.”

He explained that while Udoma’s music is faith-driven, it also blends ancestral sounds and emotional storytelling that resonate beyond church spaces.

Jedidiah added that her songs speak to both believers and non-believers, making her artistry broader than a single category.

The comment has since generated mixed reactions within the gospel music community.

While some insist that Udoma’s faith-centred message firmly places her in the gospel genre, others, particularly younger creatives, agree that her work transcends conventional labels.

“This is bigger than Chineyere Udoma. It’s about how we limit artists. Once you define someone by only one label, you restrict their growth and evolution,” Jedidiah said.

Meanwhile, Jedidiah continues to build momentum in his own career.

The rising gospel artist, who gained attention with his hit single All for You, is set to release a remix of the song featuring young Igbo rapper Kach. He also disclosed plans to drop an EP soon, signalling a new phase of creativity in his musical journey.