This archive report was first published on 13 June 2021.
Kenyan gospel artist Willy Paul, whose real name is Wilson Radido Opondo, made headlines in 2021 when he announced his departure from the gospel industry to pursue a career in secular music.
According to Willy Paul, the decision to leave gospel music was not taken lightly, and he faced intense backlash from fans and fellow artists who felt he had 'backslidden' from his faith.
However, in a recent revelation, Willy Paul opened up about the reasons behind his switch, citing a desire to explore new musical genres and connect with a wider audience.
Willy Paul's decision to leave gospel music sparked a heated debate in the Kenyan music industry, with some artists and fans expressing disappointment and others welcoming his decision to explore new creative avenues.