The Rejected Stone Now the Cornerstone: Cultural Elements in Musical Performances in Selected Pentecostal Churches in Lagos

Abstract

The emergence of Christianity in Nigeria witnessed the prohibition of many traditional musical practices and instruments for worship. While many African-initiated churches embraced indigenous music and musical instruments for worship, some Pentecostal churches do not consider such musical practices suitable for Christian worship. Nevertheless, recent trends show that many Pentecostal churches, old and new, massively employ traditional music and instruments in their worship services. This study examines the various cultural elements that have been embraced in the musical performances of Pentecostal churches in Nigeria. It discusses how these elements are shaping Pentecostal worship. Furthermore, it explains the significance of these indigenous musical practices for Pentecostal Christianity in Nigeria. Data for the study were gathered through interviews and participant observation in The Redeemed Christian Church of God and Daystar Christian Centre. The study relies on the theory of cultural nationalism for its analytical engagement. Findings reveal that cultural elements such as traditional musical instruments, praise singing, song texts, dance, neo-traditional musical genres, audience participation and many others have redefined the liturgy of the churches under study.