Mike Bamiloye defends Never Going Back
Veteran gospel filmmaker and founder of Mount Zion Faith Ministries, Evangelist Mike Bamiloye, has come to the defense of the viral gospel track “Never Going Back,” which has stirred a mixture of praise and criticism on social media.
The song, performed by a young gospel minister whose style blends contemporary beats with bold spiritual declarations, has become a sensation among Christian youth communities in Nigeria and beyond. With its catchy hook, vibrant production, and relatable lyrics about forsaking worldly ways, the track has been widely shared across TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube.
However, the song has also faced backlash from some conservative Christians who feel the modern sound and street-style video visuals are too worldly for a gospel song. Critics argue that the approach lacks reverence and blurs the lines between sacred worship and secular entertainment.
In response, Mike Bamiloye, known for his unwavering stance on godly content and moral clarity, addressed the controversy via his official social media page. In a heartfelt post, he urged the body of Christ to look beyond surface-level judgments and focus on the message of the song.
“Let us not be quick to dismiss the sound of revival just because it doesn’t sound like what we’re used to,” Bamiloye wrote. “The young man is declaring publicly, ‘Never Going Back to the World’ — is that not what we’ve always preached? Are we now offended because he declared it with rhythm and energy?”
Bamiloye emphasized that God is raising a new generation of ministers who will reach the youth in ways the older generation may not fully understand, yet are still rooted in the truth of the gospel. He warned against criticizing every new wave of expression that does not conform to traditional styles.
“When I see young people boldly proclaiming their love for Jesus, turning away from sin, and using their gifts to do it — even if it’s in dance, spoken word, or gospel rap — I rejoice. Let’s not become like the Pharisees who condemned what they could not understand,” he said.
He added that the essence of the gospel is transformation, and any tool that genuinely draws people closer to Christ should be embraced rather than judged harshly.
The song “Never Going Back” has become an anthem for Christian youth events, campus fellowships, and revival programs. Its lyrics, centered around themes of deliverance, commitment, and bold faith, have struck a chord with young believers seeking to express their newfound identity in Christ.
The artist behind the track, who goes by the stage name Minister GUC Jr. (not to be confused with Minister GUC), responded with gratitude to Bamiloye’s words, saying, “Daddy Mike’s encouragement means everything to me. We’re just young people trying to win souls through our own sound.”
Many fans and fellow gospel artists have also rallied in support of the song, sharing testimonies of how it has inspired them to make firmer decisions to live for Christ.
One Instagram user wrote, “I was depressed and almost went back to my old life, but this song kept ringing in my ears. I’m never going back!”
Despite the controversy, the song continues to gain traction, and conversations around it have sparked a broader discussion about the evolution of gospel music in a rapidly changing world. Some gospel leaders are now calling for unity and collaboration between older and younger generations in the church, recognizing that diversity in gospel expression does not mean compromise.
Mike Bamiloye’s defense has brought a more balanced perspective to the table, encouraging believers to discern with love and avoid stifling the creativity of upcoming gospel ministers.
“The sound may change, but the message must remain the same,” Bamiloye concluded. “As long as Jesus is exalted and souls are saved, heaven rejoices.
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