Nigeria boasts a vibrant and varied musical legacy, with numerous popular artists drawing inspiration from their religious upbringings. Interestingly, several of Nigeria’s most accomplished music stars kicked off their careers in church choirs, refining their singing and instrumental abilities.
In this article, Allub Times showcases these Nigerian music artists who began their journey in the church and explore the profound influence of their faith on their musical endeavors.
List Of Nigerian Music Icons Who Started Their Careers From The Church
Below is the list of Nigerian music superstars who began their music careers at the church:
1. Michael Collins Ajereh (Don Jazzy)
Don Jazzy is a highly influential music producer and record label executive in Nigeria. He is the founder and CEO of Mavin Records, a renowned label that has launched the careers of numerous successful artists, including Tiwa Savage, Rema, and Korede Bello.
Don Jazzy’s musical journey began in his church, where he honed his skills in playing instruments and learned the fundamentals of music production. In addition to his production work, he has also explored singing and rapping, collaborating on popular tracks like “Dorobucci,” “Adaobi,” and “Collabo.”
These Nigerian music artists are just a few examples of individuals who started their musical journeys in the church and have since made significant contributions to the industry. They have demonstrated that their faith and talent can coexist harmoniously, using their music as a means to inspire and uplift others. We hope you found this blog post enjoyable and gained new insights about your favorite artists.
2. Cobhams Asuquo
Cobhams Asuquo is a well-known music producer, singer, and songwriter who has collaborated with numerous Nigerian and international artists, including Asa, Bez, Tiwa Savage, and Alicia Keys. Despite being visually impaired, he has never let it hinder his pursuit of music. Cobhams Asuquo began his musical journey at the age of eight, when he joined the choir and started playing the piano.
Over time, he taught himself to play other instruments as well. He has performed at various churches, such as St. Charles Iwanga Catholic Church, Ikeja, St. Christopher’s Church, and the Protestant Church. In 2017, he released his first gospel album titled “For You,” which featured popular songs like “Ordinary People,” “Angels All Around,” and “Here It Is.”
3. Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun (Wizkid)
Wizkid is widely considered one of the most prominent figures in the Nigerian music industry and has gained global recognition. He has achieved numerous accolades, including a Grammy, and has collaborated with renowned international artists such as Drake, Beyoncé, and Justin Bieber.
Wizkid’s musical journey began at a young age of 11, when he started singing at his church, using the name “Lil Prinz.” Later on, he formed a group called Glorious Five with his friends from the church and released a gospel album in 2006. However, he eventually transitioned to secular music and gained immense popularity with his smash hit single “Holla at Your Boy” in 2010.
4. Olubankole Wellington (Banky W)
Banky W is a multi-talented individual known for his skills as a singer, rapper, actor, and politician. He is considered one of the pioneers of R&B music in Nigeria.
Banky W’s musical journey began at the age of eight when he joined his church choir. Later on, he formed a group called The Trybe with his friends from church. He then pursued his music career in the United States before returning to Nigeria to establish his own record label, Empire Mates Entertainment (EME). Some of his notable songs include “Strong Thing,” “Yes/No,” and “Made for You.”
5. Oluwatobi Wande Ojosipe (Wande Coal)
Wande Coal is a talented singer and songwriter who has been a part of the Nigerian music industry for more than ten years. He discovered his love for music while singing in his church’s teenage choir. Initially, he worked as a dancer for Mo’ Hits Records before transitioning into singing. Throughout his career, he has produced numerous popular songs, including “Bumper to Bumper,” “Iskaba,” and “So Mi So.”
6. Aituaje Iruobe (Waje)
Waje is a talented singer and performer who has achieved numerous awards and nominations, including the prestigious Best Female Vocalist at the Headies. She is also a coach on The Voice Nigeria and actively supports women’s empowerment and education.
Waje’s musical journey began as a choir member at the Word of Faith Church in Benin, where her exceptional talent caught the attention of the late Archbishop Benson Idahosa, who generously supported her secondary education. Later, she relocated to Lagos and became a member of the choir at House on the Rock Church. Throughout her career, Waje has released a diverse range of songs, spanning both gospel and secular genres, including notable tracks like “So Inspired,” “I Wish,” and “Ominiknowest.”
7. Khale
Khale is a rising star in the Nigerian music scene, known for his Afro-pop tunes and smooth melodies. He began singing in the church Boys Brigade at a young age and later went to South Africa to pursue his music career. In 2022, he released his debut motivational single called “Ups N Down,” which featured a collaboration with international artist Bee DeeJay. Some of his other songs include “Oluwa,” “In A Minute,” and “Pariwo.”
8. Chidinma Ekile
Chidinma Ekile is a highly skilled singer and songwriter who gained fame after winning the third season of Project Fame West Africa in 2010. She is well-known for her hit songs such as “Kedike,” “Emi Ni Baller,” and “Fallen in Love.”
Chidinma began her musical journey as a chorister at the Foursquare Gospel Church and later joined the choir at the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries. In 2021, she made a significant announcement that she had returned to gospel music and released a song titled “Jehovah Overdo.” Chidinma shared that she had a personal encounter with God and expressed her desire to use her music as a means to honor and glorify Him.
