Gospel singer Eko Dydda has fired back at critics who have questioned his evolving style, which blends contemporary sounds, Sheng, and eye-catching visuals like silver teeth and braided, coloured hair.
In a TikTok video on Friday, December 26, 2025, he explained that his approach is aimed at connecting with the younger generation and making the gospel more accessible.
Eko emphasised that he refuses to be limited by traditional expectations of gospel music, likening critics who fail to understand his style to the Pharisees of biblical times.
He drew parallels with biblical times, noting that even Jesus faced criticism for introducing a new way to unite people. “Hii umbwakni haijaanza saa hii; hata kwa Bible wa Sadisao na Farisees walikuanga ivo. Walikua wanamwambia Jesus anatumia nguvu za shetani, na yeye ni teacher of the law, wamezoea the old way, na Jesus amekuja na new format ya ku unite watu tu. God. Nyinyi kama hamuelewi, nasema wewe rudi stone age,” he said.
Eko Dydda explained that embracing change is essential for relevance, particularly for reaching the youth: “Hii gospel tunaleta kwa doorstep, unaona vile nakaa hii generation inataka. Ivo wewe invent design yako ya kuwa reach, sis tutawafikia hivi. Wewe hauna way ya kureach people na gospel ya God, wewe uko hapo kelele. Yoo, I’m different.”
The singer also highlighted that criticism will not deter him from his mission. He urged detractors to accept the evolution of gospel music, insisting that the goal is to engage people meaningfully rather than to conform to outdated standards.
“I must be relevant to my generation. I am the salt of the world,” Eko Dydda concluded, emphasising that his music and message remain faithful to God while reflecting the realities and language of today’s youth.
He also referenced fellow artists who transitioned from gospel to secular music, including Bahati and Willy Paul, stressing that he will not be forced down the same path and is committed to staying in gospel.
“Hello hii ndio kitu mlifanyia pozee na Bahati adi wakaenda secular, im different. Kama hamuelewi, wewe ni fosil, kubali na hii,” Eko Dydda said.
Bahati, who opened up in 2023 about leaving gospel, cited judgmental attitudes and hypocrisy in the industry as his reasons.
Similarly, Pozee pointed to excessive hatred and rigid norms within gospel as reasons for his switch to secular music.
