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

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

Ms Okumu listed the other most streamed gospel artists 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 artists, 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 artists and choirs to share their faith and music with the world,” she said.

According to Ms Okumu, gospel choirs like Joyous Celebration and Spirit of Praise from South Africa and 1Spirit & Theophilus Sunday from Nigeria are 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 artists 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.

Ms 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, and 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.”

“We also have Elevation Worship, Maverick City Music, Chandler Moore, and 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”.

(NAN)