Veteran highlife musician Rex Omar has revealed that disappointment with the church’s refusal to support his musical talent was the key reason he transitioned from gospel to secular music.

Speaking in an interview on Joy Prime, the musician, born Rex Owusu Marfo, said he began his music career as a gospel artist and released his first three albums within the church. At the time, he was a devoted Christian who regularly ministered during Sunday services as part of a gospel quartet.

Rex Omar explained that his turning point came when he approached his pastor for assistance to record his music professionally. Although the request was presented to the church board, it was ultimately rejected.

According to him, the decision was difficult to understand, especially because pastors received salaries and other benefits from the church, while musicians who also used the Bible to minister were left without support.

Disillusioned by the outcome, he said he made the conscious decision to take his talent outside the church to survive financially, a move that marked the beginning of his journey into secular music.

Despite leaving the church, Rex Omar stressed that his faith in God remained intact, noting that his spirituality has grown stronger over the years. He added that he has no regrets about his decision, saying the move helped shape him into the legendary highlife musician he is today.