Let us now look at the state of Gospel events as relates to the rest of Africa. Nigeria just had an Event dubbed The Experience on the 5th of December 2008 with performances from Kirk Franklin, Mary Mary, Donnie McClurkin, Tye Tribett, Don Moen, Fred Hammond, Kurt Carr and Chevelle Franklyn among others. The event was supported by Nigerian churches and was FREE for everyone. Held every year since 2006, attendance has grown from 70K to 250K in 2007 and 350K in 2008. Check out the pictures here. Kirk has also performed in Uganda, Ghana and South Africa. Ghana has also hosted a variety of artists including Papa San. Uganda also hosted Papa San and CeCe Winans. South Africa must be proud of international artists who stop by including BeBe and CeCe Winans among others. When you talk of major live recordings done in Africa, then you got Israel Houghton in South Africa and Bishop T.D Jakes in Kenya, with both recordings receiving major awards.

Let's go back home and gauge performances of our gospel artistes. We must say that most dance groups have really perfected their skills and their choreography is commendable. These include The Stompers, Igniterz, Ditto, Squadi Sauti, City Lights among others. When it comes to the artists, some have incorporated dance to their performances including M.O.G, Maximum Melodies, 501, BMF among others. If we mention those that drop one or two moves, then the list grows longer. However, there are some that have been doing the same routines for years making their performances very predictable. Whats of the "mikono juu" rants that always gets the crowds psyched? Anyone got a new chant?

Not only is the performance an important factor in a great show. Very few artists get any stage props for their acts. Hip Hope crew (and Kijiji Records artists) actually take time on their backdrops and outfits (t-shirts and all). 5:01 and Maximum Melodies also take their performances beyond the vocal, adding creative moves with impressive outfits. Then there are those that have fantastic sounding songs on radio but unfortunately don't translate to their live performances. And why hasn't any artiste ever had a nationwide tour, or have they? Is Nairobi the only place to hold concerts? We may have only scratched the surface but we do not want to make this article any longer. We know you got something to say about the state of Kenyan gospel. Let's hear it!