Tag: NATHANIEL BASSEY

  • Gospel singer, Nathaniel Bassey to spend time at KiriKiri: See why

    Gospel singer, Nathaniel Bassey to spend time at KiriKiri: See why

    Nathaniel Bassey, the Nigerian gospel singer, is set to perform at the Kirikiri Medium Security Prison in Lagos in celebration of his forthcoming birthday.

    According to the gospel singer via his Instagram page, the event titled “Kirikiri Edition” will be held on 27th August, his birth date and will also feature praise and worship, food distribution and scholarships for some inmates.

    “Later this month, 27th August 2025, I would be leading my brethren in the kiri medium prison in a Hallelujah challenge Praise and worship special session.

    This is my heart’s desire for my birthday. We’ll praise, eat together and afterwards give out some scholarships,” he wrote in an Instagram post.

    The gospel singer, however, added that due to security reasons, the outreach will not be streamed on social media.

    He continued: “The first ever Hallelujah challenge was in Acts 16:25‑26, When Paul and Silas prayed and sang praises to God. Though we may not stream this for security reasons, but you can pray along with us as we go.

    “We trust God for liberty of the spirit and massive harvests of souls in Jesus’ name. Meanwhile, are you ready for the October edition?”

  • Nathaniel Bassey clarifies reports that he’s performing at Trump’s inauguration

    Nathaniel Bassey clarifies reports that he’s performing at Trump’s inauguration

    Renowned Nigerian gospel minister and pastor Nathaniel Bassey has clarified that he was not invited to perform at President-elect, Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20th.

    It was reported that the Akwa Ibom cleric would be among other international Christian singers performing at Trump’s inauguration.

    However, clarifying the reports, Bassey explained that the Presidential Prayer Breakfast was a non-official and non-governmental event which is quite different from Trump’s inauguration.

    He added that the event, have always been hosted once every four years, preceding the inauguration ceremonies of new presidents of the United States of America.

    The Presidential Prayer Breakfast is a non-official and non-governmental event. It is a Faith Based platform where intercessory prayers and worship are offered to God on behalf of the office of the president and government of the nation.

    “This event is held once in four years preceding the inauguration ceremony as a breakfast prayer meeting ahead of every new administration. And over the years has been attended by leaders and dignitaries from around the world

    “Please note, The Presidential Inaugural Prayer Breakfasts is not the Inauguration as reported by blogs and some online platforms,” Pastor Bassey said.

  • Mixed reactions as Nigeria’s Nathaniel Bassey set to minister at Donald Trump’s inaugural

    Mixed reactions as Nigeria’s Nathaniel Bassey set to minister at Donald Trump’s inaugural

    Renowned Nigerian gospel minister and pastor Nathaniel Bassey has been invited to minister at the prestigious Presidential Inaugural Prayer Breakfast of US President-elect, Donald Trump.

    TheNewsGuru reports that Bassey confirmed his participation via his Instagram social media page on Saturday, 4th January 2025, saying, “Let’s raise a sound in America. And let the King of Glory come in. See you 20th January 2025.

    “The Presidential Prayer Breakfast is a non-official and non-governmental event. It is a faith-based platform where intercessory prayers and worship are offered to God on behalf of the office of the president and the government of the nation.

    “This event is held once every four years, preceding the inauguration ceremony, as a breakfast prayer meeting ahead of every new administration,” he said.

    The gathering, which is a non-governmental and non-political affair, will be hosted by Reverend Merrie Turner at the prestigious Waldorf Astoria Presidential Ballroom.

    Pastor Bassey will join a lineup of speakers and ministers, including Dr. Alveda King, Pastor Mario Bramnick, Revivalist Rebecca Macchi, and Dr. Dominiquae Bierman.

    Bassey, an acclaimed trumpeter and  convener of the Hallelujah Challenge, an online Christian worship movement, is known for his hit  songs, including  “Imela”, “Onise Iyanu”, and “Olowogbogboro.”

    Over the years, he has established himself as one of the prominent and most listened-to gospel ministers from  Nigeria as his  music spans across different genres such as jazz, worship, hymns and medley.

    In 2024, the Mayor of Albany, New York, honored him by declaring October 6 as “Pastor Nathaniel Bassey Day.”

    Meanwhile, the development has stirred mixed reactions on social media; while others hailed the gospel artist for taking the gospel of Christ abroad, others who felt different called the singer out for accepting the offer.

    Tomilola_beth: “Nathaniel bassey ministering at trump’s inauguration is revolting and a disgusting betrayal of everything christianity claims to stand for. and you christians applauding and celebrating it like some divine victory are even worse. Shameless, lacking common sense and morality.”

    thesandypreneur wrote: The gift of a man maketh way for him” stop playing and pray for grace!!!!

    nomso_njoku wrote: Let the person cry. Trump is a Christian. Even if he is not, Christian ministration is not only to Christians. Do you know the revival that can happen there

    joezihair wrote: So he has an opportunity to seat amongst kings and show his God and you are the judge of the jungle ???.

    udomereze wrote: You mad because someone is being recognised for his craft for praising God?? You need help bro

    simplyabde wrote: Politicians and Religion are in a romantic relationship!! The earliest people realise this the better.

  • Most streamed gospel artistes in 2024 revealed

    Most streamed gospel artistes in 2024 revealed

    Maverick City Music, American contemporary Christian worship music collective and Nigeria’s Nathaniel Bassey have emerged the most streamed gospel artistes on Spotify, across Sub-Saharan Africa.

    Phiona Okumu, Spotify’s Head of Music, Sub-Saharan Africa disclosed this in a statement, on Friday.

    Okumu listed the other most streamed gospel artistes as: Joyous Celebration, Spirit of Praise, Moses Bliss, Dunsin Oyekan, Chandler Moore, Sunmisola Agbebi, Mercy Chinwo and Cece Winans.

    She said that it was discovered that gospel music had secured the ninth spot on the list for the most streamed genres in Sub-Saharan Africa.

    “Spotify Wrapped 2024 unveiled a surprising twist in Africa’s musical tale. Africa’s love for gospel music reached new heights, with the genre claiming the ninth spot on the list for the most streamed genres in Sub-Saharan Africa.

    “From the vibrant choirs of South Africa to the soulful voices of Nigerian gospel artistes, listeners have been captivated with soulful melodies and uplifting messages.

    “African gospel music is undergoing a global resurgence, inspiring millions and reshaping the global music landscape.

    “We’re thrilled to be a platform that empowers these talented artistes and choirs to share their faith and music with the world,” she said.

    According to Okumu, gospel choirs like Joyous Celebration and Spirit of Praise from South Africa, and 1Spirit & Theophilus Sunday from Nigeria were redefining the boundaries of gospel music.

    She said their awe-inspiring performances, featuring exceptional vocals and groundbreaking arrangements, had transcended cultural and geographical limitations, captivating audiences across the world.

    “Solo gospel artists are also making waves. Nigerian sensations like Nathaniel Bassey, Moses Bliss, and Dunsin Oyekan, along with South African powerhouse Benjamin Dube, have garnered significant followings with their soulful melodies and uplifting messages.

    “The gospel stage this year was also graced by female voices. Sunmisola Agbebi and Mercy Chinwo from Nigeria, and Xolly Mncwango and Lebo Sekgobela from South Africa are also inspiring millions within and outside the continent.

    “It’s not just about inspiration; African gospel music is dominating the charts too. 16 out of the top 20 most-streamed gospel artistes in Sub-Saharan Africa are Africans.

    “Afro-gospel is more than just music; it’s a cultural movement uniting people across the globe. This vibrant sound is reshaping worship experiences worldwide with its unique blend of African rhythms and contemporary gospel.

    “While we still love our foreign favourites like Maverick City Music, Chandler Moore, and Cece Winans, African artists are undeniably taking the lead,” she said.

    Okumu revealed the most streamed gospel tracks in Sub-Saharan Africa as: Sunmisola Agbebi’s “B’Ola (Honour)”; Ebuka Songs’ “I will pray” and Elevation Worship, Brandon Lake, Chris Brown, Chandler Moore’s “Praise (feat. Brandon Lake, Chris Brown & Chandler Moore)”.

    She said others were: Moses Bliss, Festizie, Chizie, Neeja, S.O.N Music, Ajay Asika’s “You Are Great”; Spirit Of Praise and Mpumi Mtsweni’s “Thath’Indawo (Live)”; Xolly Mncwango’s “Ungukuphila”; Hillsong Worship and Brooke Ligertwood’s “What A Beautiful Name – What A Beautiful Name”.

    “We also have Elevation Worship, Maverick City Music, Chandler Moore, Naomi Raine’s “Jireh (feat. Chandler Moore & Naomi Raine)”; Ebuka Songs’s “Calling My Name (I’m A Soldier) – Live” and CeCe Winans’ “Goodness of God – Live”.

  • Paternity allegations: Gospel singer, Mercy Chinwo, husband drag defamers to court

    Paternity allegations: Gospel singer, Mercy Chinwo, husband drag defamers to court

    An Abuja Magistrate Court sitting in Wuse Zone 6, has issued Criminal Summons on five persons, Okoronkwo Ejike, Kingsley Ibeh, DJ Spoiltkid, Terrence Ekot, and Samuel Agozie, for alleged defamation of  Gospel singer Mercy Chinwo.

    The summons is signed by the Registrar of the court, Emmanuel Iyanna.

    They are to appear before the court on April 23 for alleging that popular Gospel Singer Nathaniel Bassey fathered Mercy’s son.

    This followed a Direct Criminal Complaint  filed  by Pastor Blessed Uzochikwa,  husband of Mercy, against the five individuals for Criminal Defamation through his lawyers led by Pelumi Olajengbesi Esq.

    Uzochikwa said the alleged acts of Criminal Defamation was carried out through deliberate circulation of injurious falsehood, cyberbullying and cyberstalking.

    The defendants recently alleged that popular Gospel Singer Nathaniel Bassey fathered the son of Chinwo, an allegation that has gone viral on the  social media space.

    They made the allegations on their social media accounts when Mercy and her husband posted pictures of their son and themselves on different social media platforms on March 29.

    According to them, the Uzochikwas’ son has a vivid semblance of Bassey, insinuating he could possibly be the real father of the child.

    Ejike’s post read: “This Mercy Chinwo’s child she was hiding after giving birth, but the truth is that this baby looks exactly like singer Nathaniel Bassey.

    “Nothing anybody wants to reason with me oh. This child is Nathaniel Bassey’s Baby. Maybe a secret away match occurred; otherwise, how can we make empirical sense of this.”

    Terrence Ekot post on the platform “X” reads: “Take a look at the stunning resemblance of Mercy Chinwo’s son and Nathaniel Bassey.

    “Though the duo has been working together on several projects, what do you have to say?”

    The posts have since caused buzz  on social media, with many calling out  Bassey on why he should be involved in such an appalling act .

    Similarly, Bassey, who has done several  music collaboration with Chinwo,  also  petitioned the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, over the  allegation.

    In a petition filed by his lawyers, Peter Abraham, Uche Matthew, Gbenga Agunloye, and Anthony Abia,  he asked the IGP to investigate and prosecute the  social media users who accused him of alleged paternity fraud.

    The lawyers said the social media posts by the individuals amounted to complete assassination of Bassey’s character and therefore urged the police authorities to urgently treat the petition against them.

  • Gospel singer Nathaniel Bassey petitions IGP over paternity allegations

    Gospel singer Nathaniel Bassey petitions IGP over paternity allegations

    Gospel singer Nathaniel Bassey has petitioned the Inspector General of Police  (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, over allegations that he fathered his colleague, Mercy Chinwo’s son.

    The singer, in a petition filed by his lawyers, Peter Abraham, Uche Matthew, Gbenga Agunloye, and Anthony Abia, asked the IGP to investigate and prosecute four social media users who accused him of paternal fraud.

    Recently, four social media users Okoronkwo Ejike, Kingsley Ibeh, Terrence Ekot, and DJ Spoiltkid alleged that Bassey fathered the son of the popular gospel singer, an allegation that went viral social media.

    They made the allegations on their social media accounts when Mercy and her husband, Blessed Uzochikwa posted pictures of their son and themselves on different social media platforms on March, 29.

    Mr Ejike’s post read: “This Mercy Chinwo’s child she was hiding after giving birth, but the truth is that this baby looks exactly like singer Nathaniel Bassey.

    “Nothing anybody wants to reason with me oh. This child is Nathaniel Bassey’s Baby. Maybe a secret away match occurred; otherwise, how can we make empirical sense of this.”

    Mr Terrence Ekot on the platform “X” reads: “Take a look at the stunning resemblance of Mercy Chinwo’s son and Nathaniel Bassey.

    “Though the duo has been working together on several projects, what do you have to say?”

    The posts had gone viral on social media, with many calling out  Bassey on why he should he should be involved in such an appalling act .

    According to the petition submitted to the IGP on 1 April, the consequences of making such statements on social media had been known to tarnish the reputations of individuals, render marriages unstable.

    The lawyers said the social media posts by the four individuals amounted to complete assassination of Bassey’s character.

    They therefore, urged the police authorities to urgently treat the petition against the four social media users.

    The petition reads in part : “Our client is a gospel music minister whose songs and ministrations have impacted the lives of so many from different walks of life across the globe.

    “On Friday, the 29th day of March 2024, Mercy Chinwo Blessed another popular gospel music minister, and her husband posted pictures of their son and themselves on different social media platforms.

    “However, our client was disheartened, saddened, and grossly disturbed to find that the above-mentioned suspects, as mischief makers with a criminal intent to destroy the image and character of our client..

    “They had made different social media posts of defamatory matter, calling our client ‘the father of minister Mercy Chinwo Blessed’s son,’ a woman who is married to another man.

    “In a post on the platform “X” formerly known as Twitter, “Dj SpoiltKid” a verified X user, quoted the statement by Okoronkwo Ejike along with a screenshot of the post and added, “When are we doing DNA test?”

    “These nefarious acts of these suspects, if not immediately dealt with, will continue to destroy our client’s image, injure his reputation, assassinate his character and cast aspersion on the good name built by our client over the years.”

    The lawyers said the alleged actions of the four individuals contravened sections 373 and 375 of the Criminal Code Act as well as Section 24(1)(b) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.).

    “Consequently, we urge you to use your good offices to, in the interest of justice, investigate this matter, arrest, and bring the suspect to justice, which will serve as a deterrent to others.”

  • How Nigerians love to stream gospel music on Spotify

    How Nigerians love to stream gospel music on Spotify

    Popular online streaming platform, Spotify has revealed how Nigerians love streaming gospel music, disclosing that gospel music amassed over 26 million streams on the platform from Nigeria alone in the last year.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports gospel music has consistently held a sacred place within the Nigerian community with renowned artists such as Nathaniel Bassey, Sinach and Dunsin Oyekan, among others, contributing to the genre’s enduring popularity.

    Running parallel to the “traditional” Gospel sound is the Afro-Gospel genre, which conveys the same spiritual message while infusing a distinct Afro-centric sound.

    Afro-Gospel emerged onto the scene about two decades ago, when artists like Dekunle Fuji, Midnight Crew, and Tim Godfrey introduced a fresh sonic twist.

    This sub-genre is currently in the midst of a notable ascent, resonating with a diverse audience and earning its rightful place in the hearts of music enthusiasts.

    As Afro-Gospel music’s popularity continues to increase across Nigeria, Spotify has set in motion efforts to elevate the genre and its artists. This has led the platform to collaborate with Limoblaze to explore the genre’s trajectory of growth and explore avenues for mutual support.

    An Afro-Gospel Community Hangout, signalling the collaboration saw an intimate gathering of community members for insightful fireside chats, led by Gospel music artists and stakeholders, including Gaise Baba, Protek Illasheva, Salem King and more, who generously shared invaluable advice and insights with aspiring Afro-Gospel artists.

    The discussions spanned diverse topics including effective marketing strategies and strategic networking, riding the wave of the genre’s current momentum.

    After the fireside chat, James Propa, Spotify’s Artist & Label Partnerships, Christian & Gospel, Africa and Warren Bokwe, Lead, Music Strategy & Operations, for Spotify SSA presented a masterclass on the different strategies and tools that can be leveraged by up-and-coming Gospel artists to secure coveted spots on Spotify playlists, a powerful mechanism for amplifying their music’s reach and turn their passion into a profession.

    “Gospel music carries messages of hope, faith, and unity that resonate deeply with listeners, and by collaborating with Gospel artists in Nigeria, we aim to amplify their voices and  provide a platform where these artists can share their inspirational songs with the world,” said Warren Bokwe, Lead, Music Strategy & Operations, for Spotify SSA.

    TNG reports Spotify is the world’s most popular audio streaming subscription service with a community of 551 million users, including 220 million Spotify Premium subscribers, in over 180 markets.

    In alignment with its commitment to champion various genres, Spotify is resolutely dedicated to nurturing the Afro-Gospel movement. This burgeoning community possesses tremendous potential to attract a broad following as it continues to surge in popularity across the region.

  • Dare Adeboye: We prayed, hoped for a miracle-Nathaniel Bassey

    Dare Adeboye: We prayed, hoped for a miracle-Nathaniel Bassey

    Popular gospel artiste, Pastor Nathaniel Bassey has commiserated with the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye and his wife, Pastor Folu Adeboye, on the death of their son, Pastor Dare Adeboye.

    Dare, who was 42 before his death on Wednesday in Eket, Akwa Ibom was an Assistant Pastor in charge of Youths in Region 35 of RCCG.

    Expressing his heartfelt sympathies, Bassey noted that when they heard about Pastor Dare’s death, they prayed and hoped for a miracle.

    He wrote on his verified Instagram page: “I have held back from sharing this because I still hoped for a miracle. And to think we flew together to Uyo last week, sharing and talking about ministry and the kingdom is most shocking to me.

    “Yesterday we prayed, danced, praised believing & hoping for a miracle because God sure works miracles. But it wasn’t to be. No doubt God is ? able and faithful. Practically seen Him raise the dead lately. And even now I believe He can.
    However, I also know that precious in His sight is the death of His Saints.
    So why we are here sad and mourning, heaven is agog with joy and celebrations at the arrival of a saint.

    “Our brother, and fellow soldier, Pastor Dare Adeboye, is in a far better place. With no bandits, kidnapping, terrorism, corona virus, economic hardship and intrigues. He lived the God-life. And has gone to join the host of heaven cheering us on. For we win. Head or tail.
    We trust The Holy Spirit, our standby, strengthener and comforter to minister to our Father in the Lord, DADDY GO, His immediate Family, The RCCG and the entire body of Christ at this time. It is well”.

  • Relocating to Canada doesn’t guarantee success- Nathaniel Bassey

    Relocating to Canada doesn’t guarantee success- Nathaniel Bassey

    Popular gospel artiste and convener of the ‘Halleluyah Challenge, Nathaniel Bassey took to his Twitter page today, urging Nigerians planning to relocate to Canada and other countries to seek the face of God. He added that relocating to these countries doesn’t guarantee success.
    Bassey noted that it is important for people to be in the place where God has destined for them to prosper. The music minister said he has seen families disintegrate after relocating to places where their lives as a family will be better.
    Read his tweets below

     

    Bassey started his musical career in the church where he joined the Rhodes Orchestra and he played the Trumpet for two years. Bassey was just an ordinary trumpeter until he composed a song at the visit to Stella Obasanjo, the late wife of former president Olusegun Obasanjo. In 2018, Bassey was one of the leading artiste in the Nigeria’s Christian gathering, The Experience.
  • TNG Special: 20 entertainers to watch out for in 2020[Part 2]

    TNG Special: 20 entertainers to watch out for in 2020[Part 2]

    This is the sequel to the piece we started last week on the 20 entertainers to watch out for in 2020.

     

    11. Teni the entertainer
    Teni is undoubtedly one of the biggest artistes in Nigeria at the moment.The entertainer continues to release songs Nigerians can relate with. With the massive success of her ‘Billionaire Experience ‘ concert and her huge fan-base, not forgetting her BET award nomination in 2019, Teni is definitely on her way to the top in 2020.

     

     

    12. Alex Ekubbo
    Truth be told, Alexx has metamorphosed from being that eye candy actor into a bonafide role interpreter who delivers.
    He did so well in Bling Lagosians that Funke Akindele had to use him in the movie ‘Your Excellency’. His sharpened range has been as a result of the diverse challenging roles he has played in time past. Ekubo’s time is here. We hope he uses it to the full.

     

    NATHANIEL BASSEY
    13.Nathaniel Bassey
    The trumpet wielding soft spoken singer is one of the most respected Nigerian gospel artistes. Nathaniel Bassey, an unassuming yet anointed singer continues to churn hits after hits while maintaining his focus.
    Bassey’s social media powered yearly prayer session, ‘Halleluyah Challenge’ continues to be a blessing to thousands all over the world.

     

    14.Williams Uchemba
    The former child actor played stellar roles in Merry Men 2 and Sugar Rush. With his obvious talent, industry contacts and social media influence, Uchemba is fast becoming an actor everyone is paying attention to.

     

    DJ CUPPY

    15. DJ Cuppy
    Cuppy stunned her fans in 2019, when she converted banter with her billionaire dad, Femi Otedola over ‘Gelato’ into a groovy tune featuring Zlatan.
    Her girl-next-door persona and humility has further endeared her to Nigerians. Despite the bullying she encounters on social media, Cuppy still manages to spread positivity.

     

    16.Nkechi Blessing Sunday
    The sexy Igbo damsel who stars in Yoruba movies loves attention. The good thing is that Nkechi has converted the attention into building a strong fan base. Her feature in Funke Akindele’s web series ‘Aiyetoro Town’ and a number of endorsements are the needed pointer that she is here to play big.
    17.Rudeboy
    When the PSquare split occurred, everyone didn’t give Paul a chance. We taught he would find it difficult to stand without his twin. However with a string of scintillating tunes including Nkenji Keke, Reason with Me and Audio Money, the self-proclaimed Rudeboy is showing us that he cannot be underestimated.

     

    18.Tacha
    Despite her unceremonious disqualification from BBNaija in 2019, Tacha still remains the most talked about BBNaija 2019 housemate. The young lady trends on Twitter effortlessly, no thanks to her loyal fan-bas called ‘Tacha Titans’. Her commitment to staying relevant will definitely bring her more fame and fortune.

     

    19.Yemi Alade
    When you think of Alade, what comes to mind is her sheer focus, dedication and melodious vocal dexterity. Though she has been condemned over the quality of her lyrics, the Igbo-Yoruba damsel seem unperturbed by the criticisms. In 2019, she was featured on Beyonce’s ‘Lion King’ album and also toured several countries.Watch out for her in 2020.

     

    1. Rema
    2019 was the year of discovery for the teenage singer Rema.The singer signed to Jonzing World,a subsidiary of Mavin Records, is absolutely one entertainer to look out for in 2020.
    His song, ‘Iron Man’ appeared on former US President Barack Obama summer playlist and the Edo-born entertainer won the coveted Next Rated awards at the Headies last year.Earlier this year, he clinched the award for the ‘ Best new artiste’ at the Soundcity MVP awards.