After Battling cancer for a while, Gospel music Minister
Darlene Zschech speaks of what she has been Praying
for according to the leading she has been having…
I’ve been really praying about this topic: worship and
mission. These two words are like fire in my belly;
they daily give me my purpose and reason. They are
not entirely separate from each other; they are almost
like a bride and groom—hard to have a wedding with
just one of them.
Yet mission will always be trumped by worship for
worship abides forever. As we continue to create
God’s throne room here among us, building his
glorious throne of praise and going deeper in our
understanding and experience, we will realize the
passion God has for the lost and broken, that everyone
needs to hear, see, and know the goodness of the
gospel.
Revelation
I continually find myself in John 4, seeing and hearing
the scene where “true worship” is discussed by Jesus
and the Samaritan woman. Seeing once more that
when Christ’s Lordship is established, living waters
are our promise, our inheritance, our radical need, and
God’s even more radical provision.
As we continue to reveal Jesus in every area of our
lives, I see God’s throne being established among us
in our churches, in our communities, in our families, in
our new experiences and in our traditions. For
wherever He is enthroned, there you’ll find hearts that
are open and thirsty for the one thing none of us can
acquire elsewhere, only from relationship with Jesus:
Living Water.
How can truthful and authentic worship be anything
but missional? In genuine worship we are constantly
declaring God’s goodness, always announcing and
declaring that he is with us, always being filled with
joy in his presence, always announcing freedom,
always dependent on the Holy Spirit to fill us, change
us, lead us, and turn our sorrows into joy, our
mourning into dancing.
More Than a Song
To worship with our life means that it is not just in
the singing of songs that we find our hearts
emblazoned with mission, but it is the result of a
worshipful life where mission finds its expression in
the going, the sending, and the daily expression of our
faith in the ordinary. As Christ followers, all that we
are should be somehow resulting in bringing the love
and light of Christ to our world. Is this mission? Yes.
Is this worship? Yes.
Limitless Connection
I’ll never forget sitting in the South African dirt with a
beautiful four-year-old boy in an orphanage in
Johannesburg. It seemed nothing could reach his
lonely little heart, no toys or games, not even the
crazy young musicians traveling along with us could
find a way to connect with him. His eyes were glazed
over; I cannot bear to think about what he had
endured at such a young age. So in the dirt, into his
gorgeous, perfectly formed little ears, I started to sing,
“Jesus loves me.” It only took moments for his
stunning tear-filled eyes to look up, and it was like
our hearts connected right there and then. Building
Jesus a throne in the middle of the dirt. As we drew
near, he drew near to us (Jas 4:8). That’s the
promise.
There is no other name like the name of Jesus to heal
our wounds, calm our fears, walk with us through
suffering, and to even hold an aching four-year-old
heart tenderly in his hands. This little boy’s heart was
opened to the love of Jesus, and he experienced what
it was like to draw from a well that could never be
taken from him, and certainly never run dry.
I may not have been leading lots of worship through
music over the last 12 months, but the mission of my
life, as a worshiper, has not changed one bit. As I’ve
sat in doctors’ waiting rooms and laid in bed for many
months, that call to take Jesus to every sacred place
burns in me just like leading people to his glorious
courts through praise does. Living our lives poured
out … in response to his great love for us…
That the world may know!
Darlene Zschech is the former worship pastor at
Hillsong Church. She is now a popular Christian singer
and songwriter.
1.The Gays/Lesbians:These types of people do not need elaborate explaination to convince everyone that they have lil or no interest in valentine’s day. this act is an ungodly act that needs quick divine intervention, this act cause sodom and gomora to be destroyed.
2.The Real Born Again Christians:These sets of people in which I belong to don’t regard or recognise anything such like this.It’s highly unacceptable in the ‘christiandom’.The bible says ‘don’t be an equally yoke with the unbeliever’,hence,christians don’t engage themselves in valentine’s celebration.
3.Those In The Battle Field: [/b]Our patriotic and beloved Nigeria soldiers in Maiduguri and other parts of the North-East will definately not be having a one-out time with their loved ones this season.
4.[b]The Singles:I know many will be on this lane.Many broke up before the celebration in the aim of dodging his responsibility during this season whilest some don’t have a date.Majority of these people are the guys ‘cos the ladies are always engage and it’s their norm.
5.The Handicaps:By handicaps,I don’t mean the handicap the bettors give to a club whilest staking his game oh,lol.Such people in this group may include,the dumb,the blind,the deft,the lame etc.These sets of people would likely go to their plantation tomorrow being saturday or even stay indoor to watch GoTv,hence,they don’t bother about valentine’s day.
6.The Minor Or Under-aged:When I was a lil boy,I used to see people put on reds cloths,caps on val’s day but I didn’t know why they were puting on such on that day not until I was matured enough to know the reason behind it.So,a minor is less concerned about val’s day,all he cares for is to get his parents’ attention,play around and get his stomach filled to the brim.
7.The Typical Hustler:The truck pusher,wheel Barrow pusher,the undertakers,the itenerant trader,the pedestrians,the hawkers etc hardly think about Love ‘cos they don’t have the time for such and hence,less bothered about it.
8.The Village ‘papos’ And ‘Mamos‘:These are the old people in the village usually the Grandpa and grandma.They can hardly move out ‘cos they are too old and those who can,don’t even remember anything like val’s day let alone celebrating it.
9.The Experienced:These categories are the ones who try to advise their younger ones/sibblings to steer-clear from guys this period ‘cos they’ve seen the bad side of val’s day.These ladies are in their late 30’s trying to caution their sibblings who aren’t adult at the moment.They are experienced and as such not so bothered about the season as the youths do.
10.The Ugly ones:]These sets of people have been forcing themselves on the opposite se.x long before the val’s day but as soon as the day approaches,they all alone.These categories of people are commonly ladies who don’t have any swag,who put on un-attracting skirts that are long to their toes,they have no features on their body to attract a guy,the least goes on and on.As such,they relax in their single apartment all day.
The pastor and 2 others who accompanied him on a pastoral visit were reportedly beheaded by fuming youths in Ediba.
Confirming the incident, the state police commissioner, Henry Fadairo disclosed that the pastor and the 2 other members of the Assemblies of God church in Mkpani area of Yakurr LGA, Cross River were slaughtered brutally and beheaded.
Police PRO, Hogan Bassey, also confirmed the incident, saying it was under investigation
Most of us would agree with George Eliot’s words, “I like not only to be loved, but also to be told I am loved.”
Valentine’s Day is the occasion when you can experience both. We asked FamilyLife Facebook friends and Marriage Memo readers to share some of their favorite Valentine’s Day ideas.
With a little help from our friends, here are 25 creative ways to tell your spouse, “I love you.”
1. On small pieces of paper, write down every kind of kiss that you can think of (examples: passionate, on the cheek, etc.). Then fill an inexpensive red felt bag with your “kisses” and give it to your spouse. Ask your spouse to pull several pieces of paper from the felt bag, and then give your sweetheart whatever kind of kiss is described.
2. Make a book about why you love your spouse and why you are thankful for him/her. The woman who sent this idea wrote, “He loved it! Said it was the best gift he has ever gotten. And it helped me to focus on the things I love about my husband and not his shortcomings.”
3. Take your sweetie on a scavenger hunt. Ask him/her to answer riddles to find the clues to items that you placed somewhere around town. The last item should give instructions that lead to your Valentine’s Day activities.
4. After enjoying a candlelight dinner for two at home, give your spouse a massage and watch a romantic movie. The woman who suggested this wrote, “Last Valentine’s Day when I got home from work, my husband … had our bedroom set up with a candlelit table for two. He is NOT a cook but he made an awesome meal … grilled steak, sautéed shrimp in lemon, garlic, and butter, a vegetable, and [he] bought a chocolate fountain that was flowing—surrounded by fresh fruit for dipping. After dinner he led me over to his homemade massage table. … We ended our special night with a romantic movie.
5. Surprise your spouse with a special getaway together. The man who suggested this made reservations at a bed and breakfast, arranged for childcare, asked for time off from work for himself and his wife, and packed his and her bags. When he asked his wife to go to lunch on Valentine’s Day she was in for a wonderful surprise. “The little bit of effort I put into that weekend paid off huge for weeks to come.” (For an extra special experience, take your spouse to one of FamilyLife’sWeekend to Remember marriage getaways. It’s one of the best investments you could make in your marriage. There are seven scheduled around the country forValentine’s weekend, and many more throughout the year.)
6. Give your wife a dozen roses. On each stem attach a note for a future date—to do something that she would enjoy (example: Go to the symphony).
7. If possible, go on a date with your spouse to a restaurant that you enjoyed when you first met. After you order your meal, take some time to write down favorite memories from the past year. Then share your lists.
8. Have 11 roses delivered to your wife, and then give her a 12th yourself while reading her a love poem.
9. Fill a large box with helium balloons and special gifts for Valentine’s Day. The woman who suggested this said that her gifts included “new sleep shorts for him and a new nightgown for me, a box of chocolate-covered strawberries and red napkins … some new candles, and a romantic CD. He got the hint. And loved the weekend.”
10. Create an intimate Valentine’s Day evening at home, without the children. The woman who suggested this idea said that she and her husband “enjoyed planning the menu, shopping for the meal, and ultimately preparing the meal together. Cooking to soft, romantic music can really be a turn on! While dining, the same soft, romantic music is a wonderful mood-setter. Dinner was followed by just the two of us having the whole dance floor, our den, to ourselves. I won’t say what all this led to, but it was a truly romantic night that would not have happened at the local restaurant!”
11. Order food from a take-out restaurant and have a picnic for all the Valentines in your family on your living room floor. The person who suggested this said, “The kids look forward to this every year. When we tried to change it, they wouldn’t allow it … it has become a tradition. The kids see the value of family and a loving marriage.”
12. Privacy and weather permitting, watch a romantic movie on your deck or patio.
13. If you are separated across the miles, send a care package filled with things that are red.
14. Make a meal with symbols of love. Examples: Write I love you with string beans, make a tart in the shape of a heart …
15. Hide little heart candies in your spouse’s shoes, coat, car, etc. The woman who suggested this said that she’s been doing this for decades. “Now a couple of the grandkids help me with delight.”
16. Wives, show up at your husband’s office before lunch. Call him from the parking lot and tell him you are going to take him for a lunch rendezvous and that you will be waiting for him whenever he can take a break. Wear a nice outfit and tell him you have something sexy on underneath for when he gets home. Take him to a nice place for lunch and back to the office. Give him some great kisses telling him how glad you are to be married to him, and tell him you will be waiting for him when he gets home.
17. Fill a jar with Valentine candy and notes for your spouse. Examples of notes are: Good for a backrub, 10 kisses, etc. Notes could also express your love and respect: “I am so glad that God blessed my life with such a great husband like you.” Individually roll each note and tie it with a ribbon.
18. Surprise your spouse by taking a vacation day from work and enjoy Valentine’s Day at home. Have a relaxing morning together on the porch, deck, or patio. Then go to a favorite restaurant for lunch. The man who suggested this idea had also reserved a spa treatment and tanning session for his wife. “While she was doing that,” he says, “I went home and made her a special dinner.”
19. Write a poem for your spouse and frame it.
20. On individual note cards, write why you love your spouse. Insert these cards in a small photo album. The woman who suggested this idea began her album with a honeymoon picture and introductory note card, and ended it with a love note.
21. Surprise your husband when he comes home from work on February 14. Place a welcome sign on the kitchen table and leave a trail of red foil-wrapped Hershey kisses to your bedroom.
22. With roses in hand and permission from your wife’s boss, go to her workplace and read a love poem to her. The woman who shared this idea said, “I am a teacher in an inner city school. Last year my husband dressed in my favorite suit and tie, came to my school with roses in hand. He got permission and assistance from the office staff to open the speaker system into my classroom and proceeded to read a long and beautiful love poem to me. He then came to my classroom and presented me with the bouquet of roses which I received while wiping my tears of joy and love for this wonderful man whom I have been married to for just under 30 years.”
23. Make a special “14 Reasons I Love You” Valentine’s Day breakfast for your sweetheart. On his/her plate, leave a letter or card listing 14 reasons that you love your spouse.
24. If possible, send a card postmarked in a town that has a romantic name such as Loveland, Colorado; Valentine, Texas; or Romance, Arkansas.
25. After your spouse goes to bed, tape notes to his car’s steering wheel with reasons that you love him, or decorate the bathroom mirror with lipstick kisses or Valentine’s window clings.
Have fun on February 14, and remember: Love is not meant to be given and received on just Valentine’s Day. Instead, it’s to be practiced every single day of the entire year.
Report By Priscilla, Canada — Hello great people, this week is a special edition and I am so blessed and deeply humbled that these anointed men and woman of God, celebrities and distinguished persons created a space for me in their busy schedules to answer my call.
My choice of guests is a mix of great people attached or linked to gospel music. I’m grateful for the bold and valid responses I got from them even though I got some declines from other guests that felt the topic was too sensitive! But..its okay.
Moving on..The objective of the discussion is to clear the issue on: The place of the Musician in the church; Why some are perceived to be rebellious to their Home Church/Pastors; and if Musicians should be Paid! I do not discredit any church or any individual for doing otherwise.
I have Mike Abdul, Pastor Francis Madojemu, Papa Deolu, Blessing Alli, Anonymous Pastor and Wole Oni. Please enjoy.
MIKE ABDUL
He is one of the four powerful voices of the famous and respected Midnight Crew {MNC} known for the widespread song IGWE! Songwriter and producer, the pioneer of the record label- Spaghetti Records.
His music has taken him round the globe and he has made several appearances on videos, featured in singles, and conducted different music workshops.
His latest request for fans to submit their twitter handle to him is quite cool and humbling if you ask me. Here is what he told me…
HIS VIEWS:
Thank you for having me.
The place of the musician in church is vital and needs no ‘wracking’ the head over as worship is to-a-large-extent music driven.
Good music is directly proportional to good congregational worship experience.
Music is the musician’s trade; he definitely should be paid when he renders his service except he chooses to render his service for free.
Whether the musician should be paid is not something to think about, why would anyone not pay for service rendered? Free service is the choice of the labourer, anyone who is forced to render free service is under slavery in the hands of a wicked person or system!
When a musician requires a change of system from the hands of a master who refuses to pay, that musician will simply be perceived as rebellious. SHIKENA!
My reaction: Funny, blunt and straight to the point!
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PASTOR FRANCIS MADOJEMU
Pastor Francis E Madojemu is a highly respected Teacher; an anointed Preacher, Coordinator of The Bridge Network Ibadan; an Architect,businessman, consultant for ReCLAIM Culture as well as the CEO of NuSTREAMS Concepts.
He is a multi-gifted motivational speaker as well as an educator whose principles on Success and Wealth fly in the face of conventional wisdom. He was the Pastor of The Redeemed Christian Church of God, Jesus Embassy Ibadan till September 2006.
He is the author of Roadmap and Rich Pastor Poor Pastor. A Spiritual father to many music artistes of the gospel. I’ve known him for so long and I love listening to his teachings. An approachable father who responded to my call even with his tight schedule.
If you’ve ever been to Ibadan and did not visit The Bridge Network trust me, you were and still wrong! Here are his thoughts.
HIS THOUGHTS
About the issue of musicians, I think we may be taking a simplistic approach to the challenges they face as well as the Churches they serve in. We must realize that one of the greatest challenges we face is poverty and it drives most people into places they don’t want to go normally line corruption, stealing even armed robbery.
Musicians need to be looked after it’s their profession, the question is how?
By limiting ourselves to simply putting a burden on Churches for payment and as you know many churches struggle even to balance their budget we have shut down other doors.
If you have ever read Robert Kiyosaki’s Rich Dad, a Poor Dad where he tells the story as a boy and was given a job in a store by his ‘Rich Dad’ together with Rich Dads actual son. It’s was only when he agreed to work for free did he see possibilities.
“..A job is only a short-term solution to a long-term problem. Most people have only one problem in mind, and its short term. It’s the bills at the end of the month, the Tar Baby. Money now runs their lives. Or should I say the fear and ignorance about money.
So they do as their parents did, get up every day and go work for money. Not having the time to say, is there another way?’ Their emotions now control their thinking, not their heads.”
Keep using your brain, work for free, and soon your mind will show you ways of making money far beyond what I could ever pay you. You will see things that other people never see.
Opportunities right in front of their noses. Most people never see these opportunities because they’re looking for money and security, so that’s all they get. The moment you see one opportunity, I you will see them for the rest of your life.”
Back to the Musicians now, there are other ways to make money for example teaching people to play instruments for a fee, producing their own music for sale, becoming sales representatives for the areas if their specialization or the equipment they love for a Commission…… I could go on and on and I am sure if we put our minds to it other opportunities would become feasible.
However the churches where these musicians are serving should support and create platforms that empower them. Transportation costs and other considerations can be looked at but again I must say these are just simplistic at the moment.
I think both sides need to listen to each other’s needs and aspirations and work together to bridge the gap and find a solution.
It’s a problem that can be solved when we look at thinks from a win-win scenario instead of us against them approach as we are in thus together.
[My reaction: Hummmn! I have to read it again. Too deep.]
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BLESSING ALLI:
An anointed powerful vocalist and analyst who is rapidly spreading her wings in different states of the USA and frequents Nigeria often to minister. She sings with a passion and a mission. The devil runs when she mounts any stage! {Check YouTube} Trust me on that one also a member of FECA NETWORK. A very close ally of mine and her views are always respected and valued. Currently working on her EP album
HER VIEWS
The Musicians in church are divided into two major categories.
The Singers and The Psalmists or Instrumentalists, However both categories operate under the Ministry of the tribe of “Levi” otherwise known as The Carriers of God’s presence. God specifically told Moses to separate a tribe that will minister unto Him.
This is where the Musician’s role comes into place, Music is a vital act of worship that the scripture always points out, so the Place of the Musician is to understand the mind of God and communicate it accurately through Music.
The Musician through the direction of the Spirit ushers the people into God’s presence by Ministering unto God Skillfully and Spiritually.
In a typical Nigerian setting, if a musician comes late or does not stay in the choir post during sermon, the person is perceived as being rebellious, in the western world there are other points that can be noted such as appearance, background check, violent nature etc. can make musicians be perceived as rebellious.
First of all, we need to define “Rebellion” in this area before we can tackle why “Musicians” are usually the only targets for rebellion rather than an usher that chews gum during service or a sanctuary keeper that sleeps during the sermon.
On Musicians getting paid, Hummmm! This is usually the sensitive area. Ok, there is the Act and Art of Music especially in Ministry. Some Musicians are into this field full time of which they get their source of living from, while others do it for the love and passion they have while getting paid from outside jobs.
So should Musicians be paid? Absolutely Yes, but it is still dependent on what category they fall in “Full Time or For the Passion…
If you read Numbers 8: 1-23 You will get more insights to this view that the Music Ministers or Levites were instructed by God not to work but fully render service/ Minister to God in the Tent, (I am not saying the music ministers that are working should quit their Jobs unless you are led directly by God)
Another thing we need to consider is we are modelling the “Then” dispensation with “Now” dispensation of which a lot will have to be considered before giving a final response?
Because time will not necessary permit me to shed more light on the Scripture, I suggest you read the book of Numbers for more understanding. God bless.
[My reaction: She always leaves me searching the scriptures.]
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ANONYMOUS PASTOR
He is a respected, popular preacher and a profound teacher in one of the popular Churches in Lagos Nigeria; He breaks down the scriptures that even a child understands!
I was simply touched and humbled when he called me on the phone to say his views on this issue. Pastor, I know you are reading this even though you opted to be anonymous. I want you to know that I have not gotten over your call.
HIS VIEWS
I will rather call them Music ministers who I see as adding to the corporate anointing of the Church. Being remunerated should be a function of services rendered. I don’t think it’s right for me to say “don’t go out for a Gig” when am not compensating them.
They are perceived to be rebellious when they minister in church as well as go out to perform. They are humans with families and responsibilities as well as bills.
Though some churches are not financially able, they should always appreciate, encourage, and motivate ministers for them to be kept in Church.
[My reaction: Very true sir. Hitting the Nail!]
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ADEOLU OGUNNUBI (PAPA DEE}
Adeolu Ogunnubi fondly called ‘Papa Dee’ is the President of PARACLETOS MINISTERIES INTL (PMI) An HELPs Ministry’ positioned to preserve the NEXT Generation of young people for marital fidelity, leadership capacity development & Community development initiatives…the organization powers the Heart-to-Heart (H2H) monthly forum since 1998.
He also served as the National president of FECA Nigeria as well as the National Coordinator of the FECA FORUM OF SENIOR MEMBERS (Fecafosm) Nigeria. He is called of God to preserve the next generation of leaders.
He is presently a Director in Digits Sounds Solution Ltd, ANTLERKORP NIG LTD and the MD of PAO2 Global services. Happily married to Oreofe and blessed with kids. A mentor and a role model to many. He is an Icon I respect a lot whose home is always opened to all.
Whenever he sets his mind on something he makes sure he sees it to the end, a phenomenal and blunt speaker who cares a lot. He spanks and embraces! (Laughs) I love hearing his views on virtually every topic. Here is why..
HIS VIEWS
Great!
Music is a very powerful tool all throughout the ages in impacting society…
Music enhances our worship life so profoundly that it cannot be over looked…
Musicians or in this case Gospel musicians are therefore extremely very important in the growth of any local assembly…
Musicians help to make God’s praise more glorious…Ps 66:2
Now because they see themselves as very important and because a lot of skills, grace, charisma and talents are involved in the making of a good musician…it is easy to allow that get into one’s head because of the fame, glamor and recognition that comes with it…
Most gospel ministers who cannot handle this well…eventually get rebellious whenever they perceive their worth isn’t being appreciated in their churches…that’s why we see a lot of them moving and changing churches often.. Looking for a church that will pay them more or appreciate them better…This in my opinion is one of the reasons they are perceived as being rebellious to authorities in Churches.
On the issue of paying musicians…. I think it should be primarily based on the financial capacity of the local Assembly…Gospel musicians who are on full time…obviously would need to be paid enough to make them at least comfortable…
But I disagree with Gospel musicians who insist and are motivated by financial rewards alone, before they serve God with their God given talent…
The first motivation is in using your skill to serve God and bring glory to His name and whatever financial incentives that come naturally with it should be accepted with thanksgiving without complaining or grumbling…
Money must never be our motivation as believers…Pleasing Him should be the first thing on our mind…and Gospel musicians are no exceptions…
Finally… Churches should also continue to appreciate their musicians and encourage them to continue the good work by making them as comfortable as they can afford.
[My reaction: Word! Might be hard but very true.]
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WOLE ONI
An accomplished producer, hit maker. Music lover, synthesizer, programmer, songwriter, arranger and sound engineer. The Multi-International Award Winning Music Producer/Jazz Pianist and CEO/Founder Instinct Productions/WOMP who was humble enough to reply all my incessant BB PINGS {laughs} despite his busy schedule, He was able to share his thoughts on this issue. {Thanks big bro.}
HIS THOUGHTS
First, I will start by explaining who a church musician is: A church musician is a person who sustain the church by providing musical services, especially as a performer of music who plays an instrument.
Also a musician (or instrumentalist) is a person who is talented in making music or performing music creatively, or one who composes, conducts, or performs music.
Musician can specialize in any musical style, and some musicians play in a variety of different styles. Examples of a musician’s possible skills include performing, conducting, singing, composing, arranging and the orchestration of music.
Musicians act as a carrier for a particular message or suggestion.
As I meet and talk with church musicians from all backgrounds, our conversations inevitably turn to some of the difficulties of working in the church. And we usually agree that the root of those problems is less of a musical one than one that is spiritual.
I have tried to zero in on what the spiritual difficulties and challenges are for musicians who work in the church.
The church musician must first understand that our work is also a form of worship.
Secondly, we should develop the mental discipline to concentrate on our job per time, and listen to the sermon during service.
Our major role is to set the tone for an atmosphere of Praise and Worship in God’s presence each time which is probably one of the most spiritually challenging jobs anyone can have.
· Church musicians should be appreciated or encouraged which boils down to being paid or not. However they should not be dependent on the church for survival. They should be creative, versatile and diverse in many ways that money can flow to them.
· Being over-ambitious when you feel you can attain a height without passing through normal procedures can brew up rebellion.
· When there is a mutual agreement and balance between the church musicians and the church itself regarding the values and their views being respected in contributing to the value of the church progress there won’t be any cause for rebellion.
Being Paid is relative and should be an individual’s decision, if your spiritual life is strong and your faith in God is such that you absolutely depend on His sustenance then being paid in a church should be a personal decision.
[My reaction: Point taken. ]
Thanks to all my special guests for clearing the air and for honoring my call. God bless you.
To my readers, I hope you’ve learnt something today. Do watch out for another edition on Thursday – The story of a talented music artist that was abused and………… Stay tuned to Praiseworld radio.
Oh! You thought Midnight crew had called music quit as a group? Their new video “Mo Dibo” shows that’s very far from it. From their last released album “Kind Of Nations” comes the official video to the single “Mo Dibo” a yoruba phrase which means “I vote (for Jesus)” in English.
This comes at time when Nigerians are getting ready to go to the polls, as the Presidential elections come up on Saturday, February 14, 2015. The video ended with an inscription “Don’t Sell Your Soul”.
Nathaniel Bassey was born in Lagos, Nigeria. He is from Ikot Ofon Ikono, Uyo local government area in Akwa-Ibom state, South-South Nigeria.
His father, Mr E Joshua Bassey, was a minister in The Apostolic Church Bashua Assembly and from an early age he developed a love for both music and the gospel.
He was inspired when He saw Dr Panam Percy Paul, a prominent Nigerian gospel music icon in concert over twenty years ago and since then,.His passion for music has grown and translated.into various musical experiences.In his early years, he developed a rather uncommon interest for jazz music and began listening, imitating and playing to the music of.Louis Armstrong, Miles Davies, Clifford Brown, Charlie Parker, Stan Getz and Kirk Whalum, Phil Driscoll, Hugh Masakela and other Jazz luminaries. His zeal for the Jazz form would later stir him to seek out bands and groups along the Jazz lines. He then joined a top jazz quartet in Lagos, Spectrum 4, where he played alongside his childhood friends.
About that time Nat, as he is fondly called, was approached by one of the most respectable figures in the Nigerian jazz and music circle, Elder Steve Rhodes to lead, arguably, the first
Jazz Orchestra in the country – THE STEVE RHODES OCHESTRA. He served as band leader and lead trumpet player for a period of two years and later moved on with his music career.
His peculiar and particularly soulful trumpet playing style caught the ears of top Artistes and composers within and outside the country.
Teemac, Ayo Bankole Jr, Cobhams Asuquo, Wole Oni, Yinka Davies, Adlan Cruise, Funsho Ogundipe, Peter King, Sotiris Papadopoulus, Paul Petersen, The French Cultural centre,American International School, are but a few individuals and organisations that have sought his musical ingenuity.
As time passed, Nathaniel began sensing a deep yearning within. There was more to his music than he thought. He later took time off his numerous mainstream commitments to seek the Lord under the Mentorship and guidance of Late Pastor Eskor Mfon, the former Pastor of The Redeemed Christian Church Of God, City Of David Parish. This decision attracted fierce criticisms from friends, Artistes and colleagues who thought it unthinkable abandoning what was becoming a thriving mainstream music career to serve exclusively at a local church.
As he developed an intimate fellowship with the Holy Spirit, He then realised that music was more than an item to fill a space in time but was a fundamental tool in the praise and worship of the Lord. Soon after, a music ministry was born and for Nathaniel, the main thrust was WORSHIP – Music of heaven – one that ministered exclusively to the Lord and an avenue through which HE related with His people. His trumpet playing coupled with a calm.singing style has since ushered many in concerts,crusades and churches into the presence of the LORD.
Nathaniel, a graduate of Politics and International Relations at the University of London, also serves as the director of music at the RCCG; The King’s Court. He has attended music courses in and out of the country including the Middlesex University Summer School UK, where he studied popular music and music business. He writes, sings and produces his own music and records with diverse groups of musicians.
Nathaniel’s debut album Elohim was recorded and mixed in Cape Town, South Africa in the year 2008. It has been described as a spiritual and Artistic masterpiece with the hit track “Someone’s knocking at the door” a soft-rock tune currently generating so much interest locally and internationally.
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