“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ” – Colossians 3:23-24
The growing demonstration of ingratitude that has for years bedevilled Ghana’s gospel industry and the non-recognition of legends are largely to blame for the inability of the industry to flourish as an important wing of God’s ministry.
Gospel music, in spite of the growing challenges, continues to serve as an important instrument to propagate the gospel courtesy the persistent contribution of some few individuals who have dedicated themselves to the task.
One name that stands out among the few unsung heroes who are working devotedly to sustain the momentum is the legendary Reverend Ferdinand Larbi Martinson. In fact, any account on the evolution and growth of Ghana’s gospel industry would be incomplete without reference to Rev. Martinson.
A teacher by profession, Rev Martinson, who hails from Aburi in the Eastern Region of Ghana, is now a full time gospel musician. Described by many as the “master of worship” the song writer, singer, instrumentalist, and pastor has spent decades in the gospel industry, leaving remarkable footprints on the successes of many musicians in the gospel fraternity.
Through his dulcet voice, creativity and dynamism, he has blessed the church and gospel music lovers with numerous powerful songs, many of which have become a major conduit for exaltation and invoking the presence of God. Lifetime releases such as “wofata , kronkron, adom, tumi ye wode, ye meho nsenkyerehene, me dofo kesse, adom ara k3k3, adomnsuo among others have dominated worship songs ministered in our churches in the past three decades.
As a prolific songwriter, Rev. Martinson has written many inspiring songs for a number of Ghanaian gospel artistes, many of whom have become household names in the music industry in general. He has demonstrated his versatility and service by singing back-ups for almost all the celebrated gospel musicians in Ghana.
Award-winning gospel artists such as Elder Mireku, Jewel Ackah, Ohemaa Mercy, No tribe,Cecilia Marfo, Gifty Osei, Nicholas Omane Acheampong, Ophelia Nyantakyi, PofessorKofi Abraham, have all benefitted and continue to benefit from his exploits.