A choir performs during church service. PHOTO/FILE/COURTESY
Gospel music has long been a spiritual cornerstone in Africa, offering solace, celebration and a divine connection. In recent years, this genre has experienced a remarkable resurgence, inspiring audiences both locally and globally.
Spotify Wrapped 2024 data 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 (SSA). From the vibrant choirs of South Africa to the soulful voices of Nigerian gospel artists, listeners have been captivated with soulful melodies and uplifting messages.
While foreign gospel has traditionally held a prominent place on the continent in the past, a new wave of homegrown talent is now taking centre stage.
African gospel music seems to be experiencing an awakening. This is a testament to the genre’s growing power and popularity that underscores its significant impact on African culture.
“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,” says Phiona Okumu, Spotify’s head of Music, SSA.
Gospel choirs like Joyous Celebration and Spirit of Praise from South Africa, and 1Spirit and Theophilus Sunday from Nigeria are redefining the boundaries of gospel music. Their awe-inspiring performances, featuring exceptional vocals and groundbreaking arrangements, have transcended cultural and geographical limitations, captivating audiences across the world.
Solo gospel artistes 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 in 2024 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. Sixteen out of the top 20 most-streamed gospel artistes in SSA are African. Foreign favourites like Maverick City Music, Chandler Moore and Cece Winans also fare just as well. But there appears to be no stealing of the thunder from African gospel music. This global recognition was further underscored by the inclusion of eight African artists, Nathaniel Bassey, Moses Bliss, Limoblaze, Joyous Celebration, Dunsin Oyekan, Spirit of Praise, Sunmisola Agbebi, and Mercy Chinwo, among the top 100 most-streamed gospel artistes worldwide.
Hits like This Year (Blessings) by Victor Thompson and Ehis ‘D’ Greatest, which ranked among the top 10 most-streamed gospel songs worldwide, capture the moment. Critics say their feats show that Afro-gospel is more than just music; it’s a cultural movement uniting people across the globe. Its vibrant sound, they add, is reshaping worship experiences worldwide with its unique blend of African rhythms and contemporary gospel.
A prime example of this sound is the Afrobeats version of Maverick City’s In the Room by Annatoria from Zimbabwe. Annatoria is the highest streamed female Afro-gospel artiste with 600,000 monthly listeners.
Further evidence of Afro-gospel’s impact can be seen in Chandler Moore’s Omemma, co-written by Afro-gospel artiste Tim Godfrey. This track secured a spot among the top 20 most-streamed gospel songs in SSA and became a viral sensation on social media platforms in 2024. Its success has been carried over into 2025.
