Christian music veteran Michael W. Smith has warned that modern worship can lose its focus when worship leaders and artists become more prominent than the God they are meant to worship.
Speaking about the current worship scene, Smith said there is a need to be careful that worship does not become “celebrity-driven.” He noted that social media can contribute to a culture that becomes increasingly focused on the individual rather than on Christ.
Smith also emphasized that worship leaders are not supposed to become the center of attention. Reflecting on advice he received from fellow worship leader Michael Olson, he recalled being reminded that God does not share His glory with anyone.
According to Smith, worship leaders should “kind of disappear,” with their role being to create an atmosphere where people can encounter God. He admitted that the issue is not about criticizing specific individuals, but about recognizing how easily attention and celebrity can affect the heart of worship.
His comments come as he promotes House of Worship, a cinematic worship event featuring several Christian music artists. Smith said he remains encouraged by younger believers and artists and believes he is seeing the beginnings of a revival among Gen Z.
For Smith, the goal of worship remains simple: the attention should ultimately move away from the worship leader and toward Christ.