Most prominent gospel artistes of 2024

The Nigerian gospel music scene has continued to evolve and captivate global attention. NAOMI CHIMA writes about the leading gospel acts whose contributions have shaped the genre this year

Nathaniel Bassey

Nathaniel Bassey remains one of Nigeria’s most celebrated gospel artistes, known for creating music that inspires deep worship. In 2024, he became the second most-streamed gospel artiste in Sub-Saharan Africa, after Maverick City Music. His popular Hallelujah Challenge continues to attracting millions of viewers worldwide.

His 18-track album, ‘The River’ features hits such as ‘You Are You’, ‘Jesus Iye’, and ‘Yahweh Sabaoth’, exploring themes of faith, hope and God’s power.

Bassey’s music blends traditional African sounds with contemporary worship.

Moses Bliss

Moses Bliss has become a modern-day gospel sensation with songs like ‘Too Faithful’ and ‘Miracle No Dey Tire Jesus’. A dynamic performer, Bliss was among the 10 most-streamed gospel musicians on Spotify in Sub-Saharan Africa in 2024. His marriage to Marie Wiseborn earlier in the year added another layer of recognition to his flourishing career.

Mercy Chinwo

Known for her powerful vocals and heartfelt lyrics, Mercy Chinwo continues to be relevant on the gospel music scene with chart-topping hits such as ‘Wonder’. A two-time African Gospel Music and Media Awards winner, she was of the 10 most-streamed artists on Spotify in 2024. Chinwo’s ability to blend traditional African sounds with contemporary gospel makes her a favourite for audiences of all ages.

Dunsin Oyekan

Dunsin Oyekan’s name is synonymous with deep worship and spiritual revival. With hits such as ‘Fragrance to Fire’ and ‘The Anthem’, Oyekan remains a top-streamed artist in Sub-Saharan Africa. His innovative use of live instrumentation and soul-stirring lyrics help to create profound worship experiences.

Sunmisola Agbebi

Sunmisola Agbebi is a rising star leading the chant worship movement. Her breakout single, ‘My Daddy My Daddy’ and hits like ‘B’Ola (Honour)’ have endeared her to younger audiences, making her a favourite among Gen Z and millennial fans. Her vibrant performances showcase her talent and growing influence on the gospel music scene. She was also one of the 10 most streamed gospel artists in Sub-Saharan Africa on Spotify in 2024. ‘B’Ola (Honour)’ was one of the 10 most streamed gospel songs on Spotify in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Ebuka Songs

Ebuka Songs has gained prominence for his worship tracks such as ‘I Will Pray’ and ‘Calling My Name (I’m a Soldier)’. As a key figure in the chant worship movement, his music focuses on intimacy with God, positioning him as one of the most profound gospel voices of 2024. ‘I Will Pray’ and ‘Calling My Name (I’m A Soldier)’ were among the 10 most streamed songs of 2024 on Spotify.

Victor Thompson

Victor Thompson, known for his prophetic anthem, ‘This Year’, debuted on the US Billboard Top 50 in 2024 and earned a Headies nomination. His global reach and consistent releases have made him stand out in Nigerian gospel music.

Tim Godfrey

Tim Godfrey continues to shine with hits like ‘Omemma’, which was co-written with Chandler Moore. Known for his vibrant live performances and hit collaborations, Godfrey’s influence extends beyond music as he mentors up-and-coming artistes through his Rox Nation record label.

Bidemi Olaoba

Bidemi Olaoba’s high-energy Yoruba praise songs like ‘Bonjour’ and ‘Give Me Chance’ (featuring Mercy Chinwo) have made him a sought-after performer at church events and gospel concerts. His blend of celebration and deep worship resonates across diverse audiences.

Mirabel Somi

Emerging artiste, Mirabel Somi, has quickly captured the attention of many with her soulful voice and lyrics. Her hit, ‘You Are Good’ became a viral sensation in the course of the year, marking her as one of the rising stars to watch in Nigerian gospel music.

Mike Abdul

Mike Abdul closed out the year with ‘Ojoro’, a powerful single featuring Clement Whyte. The song celebrates triumph through faith and echoes Abdul’s journey of walking in divine favour.