The gospel industry has grown in leaps and bounds. More musicians continue to rise and push the boundaries of creativity. We have moved from having the usual choir christian music to having gospel music in the different genres. Here are some of the ten gospel musicians you should be listening to.
1. Mr.Vee
Mr. Vee
You know the song Mwema by Mercy Masika that has become a hit since its release, it was written by Mr.Vee. The song that recently won an award is just one of many hits written by him. Mr.Vee’s love for music was discovered while he attended the Shauri Moyo High School. His debut song did not dominate the gospel charts but allowed for him to work with the Gospel Fathers in the song Fundi Wa Mbao that became an instant hit. Over his career he has had numerous hits like Soldier, Just a way with the late Peter Kaberere and most recently Subira with Kenty of the (Meon of God ) M.O.G. He style is very simple, unique and he is definitely one of the most underrated artist in this country.
2. Ivylyn Mutua
Ivlyn Mutua
Her name is synonymous to fierce. She reminds me of gospel powerhouse Chevelle Franklyn. Many know Ivlyn as part of the trio that does background vocals for various artists in the music show Coke Studio. She also served as a worship leader (2013-2015). She has previously teased a Reggae debut album with some songs like Sound of Alarm Power and Hiding place being part of it. If you love some gospel ragga and reggae she is your girl.
3. Mercy D Lai
Mercy D Lai
Mercy D Lai is no stranger to the gospel industry and her steady growth has positioned her as one of the best artists in Kenya. She is a pastor kid who discovered her talent in church. The songstress hails from Kibwezi and says that her songs are a testimony of her journey that she hopes will encourage people in their lives. Her album Emmanuel scooped the Groove Award album of the year 2016 beating artists like Daddy Owen and Eunice Njeri. She stays true to her style and frankly she is one of the artists who are in the industry to actually make a difference.
4. Recapp
Recapp (L to R Emmanuel Mwongela , Nelly Tuikong, Edward Obura and Tedd Askoye)
If you remember the swag that Camp Mullah brought to the music when they broke out, Recapp has the same effect on the gospel industry.Their name Recapp means recapitulation which means going back to the beginning. The four, Emmanuel Mwongela , Nelly Tuikong , Edward Obura and Tedd Askoye combine their talents to make an awesome team. For instance, the three young men can rap but they have their own style. The group received four nominations in the recently held Groove Awards 2016 and even though they did not win any of the awards I bet you that they are not going anywhere and there is more to come. If you are a fan of some hip hop gospel they are your team.
5. Alison Nyawira
Alison Nyawira
Though fairly new to the industry, Alison has been nurturing her talent for a while. The Sauti Academy alumni has one of the best voices around and a deep desire to serve. She has two singles out that are doing fairly well and her niche is worship songs. Besides gospel music, the actor has been part of productions like Out of Africa that saw her tour Europe with the likes of Patricia Kihoro and Kaz Lucas. She also played Rafiki in the musical Simba that was directed by Sahil Gada. Alison is constantly working on her talent and that will pay off. She has the same vibe as Christina Shusho, Kambua and Marion Shako.
6. Kelele Takatifu
Kelele Takatifu
I do not know anyone with as much energy as this duo that comprises of Didi and Moji Short Baba who have been called The Holy Nosiemakers. Their song Itakuwa Ngori became a club banger as soon as it hit the waves. Talk about reaching out to the sinners. They want to reach out to the fellow young people through their music and make Christianity cool. Their latest single Bamba Mbaya is also doing well. These guys are so much fun to watch because they are good performers and they are do not care much for optics and that allows them to be themselves. Authentic sells every time.
7. Laura Karwira
Laura Karwira
Laura comes off as a very sweet soul. That combined with her beautiful voice you have fantastic artists with amazing music. Her songs Mtetezi and Natamani Nikuone have been well received by her fans. Since her debut into the industry she has managed to get a nomination for the New Artist, Groove Awards 2016. She also has a blog where she shares her beliefs. It would be nice to see her take more risks with her music. Her firm Christian foundation gives her a good head on her shoulders.
8. Mercy Njoki
Mercy Njoki
Mercy Njoki is a daring artist who took up the challenge of releasing a song every single week for a year. She released her album in 2010 and was also featured in the CITAM Woodley Music Team album titled Total Surrender. She has stayed true to her cause and her song can be found here. One worry though, the constant releasing of songs does not allow the audience to enjoy a song. The thing about audiences is that songs usually grow on them and there is need to let a song get a life of itself. Mercy Njoki has a beautifully voice and she is worth listening to.
9. Makena Yvonne
Yvonne Makena
Makena is a TV host but her first love is music. Makena is a beautiful lady with an exceptional voice. Her passion is almost tangible in her music. Her music is inspirational and reaches out to a very young generation. This is guarantees her consistent growth. I have to applaud her for being very good at updating her social media pages and allowing audiences into her world with no reservations. She has previously won a Groove Award for best worship song 2013 among other awards.
10. Grace Ekirapa
Grace Ekirapa
Grace Ekirapa is a TV and Radio host who is passionate about her music. Her music is very diverse and that has allowed her to reach more people with her music. Out of all her music Sifa takes the cup for being well written and good video production. She is also shares a great deal of herself on social media. Problem is there is not much on her career which is a disservice for anyone who does not know her.