Kojo Sam, Ghana’s trailblazing Christian opera singer, has spent 21 years redefining the boundaries of gospel music. At “A Christmas Crescendo,” an event held at the Royalhouse Chapel, Legon, Kojo’s powerful performance showcased his mastery of the art form. However, a deeper conversation with the artist revealed the hurdles he faces as a Christian opera singer in Ghana.

Born in Mamprobi and introduced to opera by his mother at the age of nine, Kojo Sam’s passion for the genre was solidified in junior high school when a foreign gentleman gave him an opera cassette. He has also been trained by American Opera singer and professor of Music at the University of Michigan, USA, Professor Louise Toppin and Canadian Baritone singer, Professor Kevin McMillan who has been honored with a Grammy and Gramophone award for his exceptional vocal capabilities and career.

Since then, he has performed internationally, singing for dignitaries such as United States of America Vice President Kamala Harris, and all presidents of the Republic of Ghana, from the late H.E. John Evans Atta-Mills to the current president, H.E. Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. He also performed for the United Kingdoms’ ruler, King Charles during his visit to Ghana. In addition to this, he is also a member of the American Institute of Music.



Despite his success, Kojo Sam has faced significant challenges in his home country. In an interview with Christian News Anchor, Yeboah Edwin Takyi, he spoke candidly about the lack of acceptance and appreciation from both the Christian community and event organizers. Financial support remains a critical issue, with the government offering little assistance or policies that prioritize gospel music. Kojo Sam expressed frustration that his talent is primarily recognized by the private sector or when Ghana needs to showcase opera to foreign dignitaries.



“The gospel industry is standing only by God’s grace,” he remarked, emphasizing the need for diversity within the Christian music scene. He noted that contemporary gospel music dominates the industry, leaving little room for other genres like Christian opera, reggae, and choral music. This lack of diversity forces many artists to conform to contemporary styles for financial survival.

Kojo Sam proposed solutions to these challenges, urging Christian leaders and event organizers to introduce different genres of gospel music in churches and concerts. He believes that exposing congregations and audiences to varied styles will foster appreciation and support for these genres.

His advice to aspiring Christian opera singers is simple yet profound: “Master the craft, don’t mimic others, and stay resilient.” He encouraged them to focus on excellence rather than financial rewards, reminding them that perseverance can pave the way for success. Kojo Sam’s journey highlights the untapped potential of Christian opera music in Ghana. His story is a call to action for stakeholders in government, in the Christian body and in the gospel music industry to embrace diversity and provide the support needed to sustain and celebrate unique talents like his.