INTERVIEW WITH EMEKA PHRANSIS (VOICE COACH PROFESSIONAL) by Jobuest Musik
Jobuest Musik: Who
is Emeka Phransis?
Emeka: He is a Voice coach/manager, Music director,
Literacy expert, a worshiper extra-ordinare, Music consultant, and currently,
He is the music director of Guiding
Light Assembly, Ikoyi.
Now, Emeka Onuoha (also known as Emeka Phransis) hails from Etitiama Nkporo, Ohafia LGA, in Abia State, born
into the family of Chief Onuoha Lekwa Kalu, has 5 siblings, and married to
Uchenna Onuoha Esq.
Jobuest Musik:
What’s your typical day like?
Emeka: My day
starts with God, work, music in between, and ends with God.
Jobuest Musik:
What is your best form of gospel music?
Emeka: I love
R&B gospel, Reggae gospel music, and dancehall gospel music.
Jobuest Musik:
What comes to your mind, whenever you hear a good gospel song?
Emeka: I sense
the connection the singer has with the song, the voice technicality, all summed
up in the anointing.
Jobuest Musik: What
do you think about gospel music ministers scoring circular songs to perfect
their singing performance?
Emeka: Gospel
artists should show a significant difference to the circular artists. The gospel music minister
has the anointing, and should be seen and used as a yard stick/model for even
the circular singers, not the other way round. Therefore gospel music ministers
should aim higher than the circular artists.
Jobuest Musik:
What are your weekends like?
Emeka: Wow! Lots
and lots of rehearsals, but I try as much as I can to relax in-between.
Jobuest Musik:
What’s your best food?
Emeka: Hmm… I
love Vegetable soup and Eba..
Jobuest Musik:
What’s your best colour?
Emeka: I love all
shades of blue.
Jobuest Musik: If
you were forced to stay in a room, without doors and windows, what will you go
in with, and how long can you stay there.
Emeka: (laughs)
If I really really have to stay in such a room, I’ll go in with my voice, its
my priceless gift from God and I’ll stay there singing to the Him, for as long
as I remain alive in there.
Jobuest Musik:
It’s not news anymore, in churches were the church authority/leadership does
not recognize/appreciate the choir/singing ministry, and there are a lot of
discouraged singers in the church because of this, what words do you have for
them?
Emeka: This is a
very serious challenge, and if nothing is done about this, we will keep loosing
great talents to the circular world. It’s a pity that some preachers don’t
value gospel music ministers. But all I can say is, as a gospel music minister,
pray for the church,
pray for the set man, for God to open his eyes, then work on yourself, improve on your
performances, and above
all, when you have opportunities to minister in songs, and be a blessing in other
gatherings, please go,
but don’t forget to still minister in your primary place of assignment.
Jobuest Musik: How
does Emeka Phransis give back to society?
Emeka: I organize
programs to encourage reading culture in children within the age brackets of
4-7/8.
Jobuest Musik:
Where do you see Emeka Phransis in the next couple of years, if Jesus tarries?
Emeka: I see my
voice coaching programs, spreading all over the world, blessing more lives, and
equipping Gospel music minister to sing for God. I appreciate Jobuest Musik for this interview, my special thanks goes to Mrs Joyce Obuesi. and all my friends, especially you, reading this interview, God bless you bountifully.
NIKKI LAOYE
Nikki Laoye is an Urban/Contemporary Christian Artiste from Lagos, Nigeria.
A dynamic recording/performing artiste, Nikki Laoye is known for her eclectic musical expressions with fusion of R & B, Rock, Soul, HipHop and more.
With the great success of her award-winning debut hit singles - "Never Felt This Way Before" and "Taka Sufe", both from her debut album ANGEL 4 LIFE, Nikki stands in a league of her own as one of the 1st Nigerian Artistes to ever perform before a 500,000 crowd at The Experience Concert, Lagos and also as one of the 1st three artistes ever to be interviewed and recognized from Nigeria on America's top entertainment channel, BET (Black Entertainment Television) in 2009.
A special feature of Nikki's life, music and career was also captured on the series "BET SPOTLIGHT" in 2011, showcasing the top Recording Artistes from Nigeria.
Asides from her music and her responsibilities as a Project Manager with Wahala Media Entertainment, Nikki is committed to supporting the development of visually impaired and physically challenged children & youths, as well as promoting a campaign against Violence towards Women in conjunction with the United Nations, all with her NGO initiative, "ANGEL 4 LIFE FOUNDATION".
In October 2012, Nikki, with the help of her foundation, helped to organize the 1st ever International White Cane Day for the Blind in Lagos, for the Nigeria Association of the Blind (Lagos Chapter).
Nikki Laoye was also one of the preliminary judges on BET's SUNDAY BEST Auditions held in Lagos Nigeria in 2009 and was a guest judge on one of Nigeria's top singing competitions, "Naija Sings".
Recently, Nikki kicked off her own radio show, "GIRLS ROCK WITH NIKKI LAOYE", which airs every Thursday, 5pm-7pm on Nigeria's 1st Online Gospel Radio Station, PraiseWorld Radio (www.praiseworldradio.com), showcasing the best of female gospel and inspirational artistes in Africa and beyond as well as promoting young female entrepreneurs .
Currently working on her sophomore album, Nikki had released two previous single - the hiphop track, "No Be Beans" featuring fast rising Yoruba Hip Hop artiste, Base One and the dance hit single, "1-2-3" which is the rave of the moment by DJs and fans in Nigeria, UK, Kenya,South Africa and has also nominated for 'Song of The Year' at the upcoming 2013 Crystal Gospel Awards.
And now, Nikki Laoye just released the sensational ballad, 'ONLY YOU' which has been fondly tagged - 'The Song Of Life' by her fans and is presently taking the industry by storm.
Nikki Laoye became the1st Female Artiste in Nigeria to double trend on Twitter within 24 hours of the song release as her personality as an artiste and her music became the most talked about topics in Nigeria on twitter.
Another hit single from Nikki Laoye's upcoming sophomore album, “ONLY YOU” is certainly a hit record that would remain deeply engraved in the hearts of all.
“My music is all about who I am,” says Nikki Laoye, “and that simply is, to be a voice of change, a voice of reasoning, love, encouragement, a voice of hope- straight from heaven’s gate to the hearts of men.”
Little wonder, “the small one with the big voice”, from the musical lineage of the talking drum legend- Late Oba Adetoyese Laoye from Ede-Osun State, lands in a fluttery of wings with a strong yet angelic vocal delivery you just can’t help but stop to notice and takes the industry by storm with the release of her infectious single, “Never Felt This Way Before”, bringing a fresh urban Christian contemporary sound to the Nigerian music industry.
This seven-time award nominated song, (2009 Hip Hop World Awards- “Best Vocal Performance (Female)” and “HipHop World Revelation (Best New Artiste)”; KORA Awards-“Best Spiritual Artiste” and “Best Arrangement”; 2009 City People’s Entertainment Awards-“Musician of the Year (Female); the 2009 Nigerian Entertainment Awards in USA-“Gospel Artist of the Year” & 2009 SoundCity Music Video Awards-“Best Female Video”), received major accolades and a recent rating as the 3rd Best Performance at the 2009 HipHop World Awards in Nigeria (2Face and Darey Art Alade coming 2nd and 1st respectively, out of the 10 performances at the awards).
Standing undeterred at the top of the charts and at the top of her game, Nikki Laoye has set up a league of her own with the follow-up release of her exceptional debut album - “ANGEL 4 LIFE”— an interesting collection of contemporary sounds, filled with striking expressions of her faith & a great line up of artistes including Rooftop Mcs, Blaise, Jeremiah Gyang and many more.
From her gradual rise to the No 1 spot on the Nigerian Chart Show for weeks; a main feature spot on the MTVBase “rockumentary” show- ADVANCE WARNING; her first theatrical debut in the Nigerian-Broadway stage play musical, “OLURONBI” in October 2009; to being one of the five female artistes on the 2009 Tetmosol Girl Power Tour across the country; her vocal signature on popular adverts & movie soundtracks such as Etisalat’s “0809aija 4 Life” alongside Banky W; Fidelity Bank’s “No Greater Feeling”, “Where the Heart Lies”, “Mission 2 Nowhere” and her ubiquitous presence on TV and radio stations worldwide, Nikki Laoye has undoubtedly grown from being an artist to watch, to an artist you experience.
On the 4th of December 2009, Nikki was one of the 19 gospel icons to grace the stage of the largest gospel musical event in the world- THE EXPERIENCE- which held in Lagos, Nigeria, performing alongside Kirk Franklin, Cece Winans, Donnie McClurkin and many others.
Showing off her outstanding and unique musical expression in dance, rap and song, Nikki Laoye got the whole arena of 500,000 people, praising God in a brand new way as her name gently came to rest on the hearts and lips of everyone.
And now Nikki is setting off a new pace for gospel music in Nigeria with the release of her 2nd video, “Taka Sufe (RMX)” featuring Rooftop Mcs and her older brother, Rap2Sai.
Produced by her younger brother, Ade “Xblaze” Laoye, and directed by an amazing video director duo, Frizzle & Bizzle, Nikki has got hands snapping and everyone whistling along to another infectious song from her quiver of artistic song hits.
Taka Sufe, which literally means “Snap & Whistle” in the Yoruba dialect of Nigeria, is popularly used as a nickname for Hip Hop or Contemporary music by the older generation of people from the western part of the country.
The year, 2010, started off on a high note for the exceptional young lady as Nikki Laoye, alongside her other contemporaries- Rooftop Mcs and Lara George, were the first Nigerian artistes to be featured on the highly-recognised TV show (BET NOW) on the popular international entertainment channel, BET (Black Entertainment Television), for three consecutive days in two special half hour TV programs tagged “BET NOW: NIKKI LAOYE & LARA GEORGE” & “BET NOW: ROOFTOP MCs”.
Nikki was also one of the preliminary judges for the BET’s Sunday Best Audition Casting which held in Lagos, Nigeria at the Eko Hotel in December 2009.
Notwithstanding, her great accomplishments in such a flattering record time, Nikki stays focused and sticks to her relentless resolve to build a successful and fulfilling career in the entertainment industry.
Never resting on her oars, Nikki is many other things, rolled in one - a graphics designer/ web administrator; Editor of her own online e-letter “Sista 2 Sista”; Worship Leader at the House on the Rock Church and Project Coordinator with the entertainment/management company she’s signed with-Wahala Media Entertainment.
Also working closely with her younger brother and producer, Ade “Xblaze” Laoye, they’re certainly making a huge statement to “rock you steadily” with the great music that comes from their production stables- RocSteady ’86 Productions. “Taka Sufe” and many more songs from Nikki’s album are his amazing creations and with his outstanding ingenuity; he’s certainly a producer to watch out for.
Sounds like she’s superhuman but Nikki is perfectly human, just doing extraordinary things with her music and gifts and she makes it clearly known that, first and foremost, she’s an artiste with an uncompromising vision..TO SIMPLY MAKE GOD MORE FAMOUS.
In her own words -“God’s my everything and I have no choice but to make His name great everywhere that I go. Other than that, what matters most to me is that people get a “right-on-time” word from the sentences in my music book. A word of encouragement, a ray of hope, the gentle breeze of peace on your heart, the glow of love to your eyes…Music is my greatest form of expression and I know it is a very powerful delivery tool, everyone listens to good music. All I got is 4- 5mins max so I better be saying something you need to hear”.
“ANGEL 4 LIFE” is Executively Produced by Ola Laoye for Wahala Media Entertainment.
Producers and Artistes on the album include
Cobhams on
“Get Your Praise On” featuring Cmoore;
Nikki Laoye on
“Angel 4 Life” & “Nikki’s Praise”;
Jeremiah Gyang’s songwriting, production and featuring credits on
“Someone 2 Love”;
Victor Okon on
“Believer” feat Otis, “Joy Comes” and “None + U=Me”; Ade “Xblaze” Laoye (Nikki’s younger brother) on
“Taka Sufe” feat Rooftop Mcs and Rap2Sai, “Whatever It Takes” feat Rap2Sai & Fola Babs, “Eyin L’oba” feat Blaise, “Family Affair Interlude” feat Nikki & her 3 brothers (Femi “Rap2sai”, Ade “ Xblaze” and Bola “Naked Wire” and “Healing Waters I & II” featuring Karl Nova;
Ogo Okpue
on “Baba Loke” feat Soul Sistas, Aby and Debola .
JOE-PRAIZE
JOEPRAIZE is a music minsiter by the will of God. He is an anointed praise and worship leader full of the Holy Ghost. ;also a song writer. His love for God and passion for the gospel is evident in the lyrics of his songs and the power in his ministrations on stage. Joe Praize is a committed member of his local assembly and ministers with his Man of God, Pastor Chris all over the world.
It is a great privilege to lead God’s children in worship before God. Here are the information we gathered from him during our reporter’s brief chat with him; enjoy your reading…
INTRODUCTION
My name is Joseph Omo Ebhodaghe , popularly known as JOE PRAIZE, close pals call me ”joepee”, lol . I am a gospel music minister by the WILL of God; I love Jesus with my whole heart and everything within me, and I try to let how I feel about him reflect in the songs that I sing.
Born in Edo State Nigeria into a family of nine, got born again in 1991. Joepraize is a graduate of social work and social administration from the university of jos , plateau state , Nigeria. I am a praise and worship leader in my ministry, Believers Love World. I love to lead God’s people in praise and worship because to me it is one of the biggest opportunity I have received from God. I do other genre of music though, but love to praise and worship Jesus all the time. It’s a blessing to be in a position where God can trust you to lead his people in songs of praise and worship to him. So in all I can say I do songs that bless and reach the spirit, soul and bodies of my listeners. I am a recording artiste, my first album was released in November 2009, I released a single Great and Mighty God in 2007 and the song is fulfilling its purpose.
Born in Edo State Nigeria into a family of nine, got born again in 1991. Joepraize is a graduate of social work and social administration from the university of jos , plateau state , Nigeria. I am a praise and worship leader in my ministry, Believers Love World. I love to lead God’s people in praise and worship because to me it is one of the biggest opportunity I have received from God. I do other genre of music though, but love to praise and worship Jesus all the time. It’s a blessing to be in a position where God can trust you to lead his people in songs of praise and worship to him. So in all I can say I do songs that bless and reach the spirit, soul and bodies of my listeners. I am a recording artiste, my first album was released in November 2009, I released a single Great and Mighty God in 2007 and the song is fulfilling its purpose.
HIS ALBUM
My album is titled “MY PRAISE” I like everybody but have special interest for people who are very REAL to who God has made them.
I have ministered in music in several countries which includes South Africa {Johannesburg, Cape Town, Pretoria, KZN}, Canada, United Kingdom, United States, Nigeria, Ghana and others.
I have ministered in music in several countries which includes South Africa {Johannesburg, Cape Town, Pretoria, KZN}, Canada, United Kingdom, United States, Nigeria, Ghana and others.
THE AWARD WINNING JOEPRAIZE
Joepraize won the song of the year award 2010 at the prestigious LOVE WORLD AWARD with the song MIGHTY GOD which is track number 5 on his album MY PRAISE. Popularly known as helema (he laughs… ) He also was nominated for best African gospel by SABC CROWN GOSPEL AWARD 2010.
Africa Gospel Music Awards UK 2011, The prestigious love world Awards 2011 for worship song of the year..
Joepraize won the song of the year award 2010 at the prestigious LOVE WORLD AWARD with the song MIGHTY GOD which is track number 5 on his album MY PRAISE. Popularly known as helema (he laughs… ) He also was nominated for best African gospel by SABC CROWN GOSPEL AWARD 2010.
Africa Gospel Music Awards UK 2011, The prestigious love world Awards 2011 for worship song of the year..
A new single has been released this year 2012 titled ”Oyigiyigi” byy him as well. He takes up every opportunity to show his unfailing love and reverence to God almighty for pulling out of the miry clay into His marvellous light. We look forward to hearing from him beacuse we sure do know that he is a success story to the body of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Loveworld award songwriter, choir leader and vocalist, Osinach Kalu, ( aka Sinachi), recently launched her album, I’m blessed. The second daughter of seven children told us how her father objected to her musical career, her passion to touch lives with her songs, and her born again experience which she describes as awesome. Excerpts:
The name Sinach
“I chose that from my name Osinachi because it is easy to pronounce and catchy. The title of my album is I’m blessed. It is a 15-track album. The title is prophetic. I’m blessed was not a pre-meditated song. It was just a rehearsal we did and the song clicked. I got the inspiration when my pastor was preaching. As a Christian, you have to know that once you step into a relationship with God, you are blessed automatically. The Bible confirms this by telling us that everything we do is blessed.”
Aim of the album
“My aim for this album is that everyone who listens to the messages contained in it will be inspired to the next level. The messages appeal to everyone. Everyone can take in messages they need to lift their souls. The songs are so easy that choir directors can teach their choir members to sing the songs. Individuals that are down would be lifted if they absorb the wordings with faith in their hearts. The album contains worship and praise songs. They are all original because they were written by me and inspired by the Holy Spirit.”
Inspiration
“It comes from God’s word. This is because the word of God is life. I have been under the tutelage of Pastor Chris Oyakhilome for over 20 years. I have listened to God’s word through him and these words have always inspired me to write songs. I have seen situations change and hopeless people have a reason to live and enjoy life through God’s word. My life is a testimony that one can be anything and achieve anything. A lot of people ask me from what part of the world I come, they don’t believe I am from Nigeria. I always tell them that anything good can come out from anywhere with the application of God’s word.”
Before I’m blessed
“I have been writing and performing my songs. I have wriiten over 200 songs including I want more of you and Awesome God. I’m blessed is my second album. My first album is Chapter one. My intention is to push this album farther than the first one so that people can feel the presence of God in their everyday lives and apply God’s word to their situations. They can actually experience church at home.”
The craze for gospel music
“A lot of people are singing gospel music lately because they want to be inspired. People are tired of listening to the wrong music. They want the right music to lift them when they are down. Music is a way of life. Everyone at one point in time needs good and inspirational music to calm down. It is important you listen to the right music.”
Experience in the industry
“My experience is great because I see it as a privilege to impart lives positively through my songs. My pastor taught me to write songs that I would leave in the mouths and hearts of people. I was taught to write songs that would be remembered for a long time.”
Challenges
“I have less challenges because I have a team behind me from the Loveworld Music. I am blessed because I belong to a good ministry and in the midst of good people.”
Was music your childhood dream?
“Yes. Music was my dream. My father objected to my musical career. He told me I would go hungry as a musician, that musicians amount to nothing. It was when I met Pastor Chris that he changed my perspective. He told me I could be anything I want to be in life with God’s word.”
How lucrative is the music ministry?
“I don’t know. The first album was released under the Love World Music Ministry. My work is not based on the commercial aspect. My interest is passing the good news across to listeners. My sole aim is to affect lives. The first album was a trial actually and it went very far.”
My music
“It has substance. Any listener can take valuable substance out of it. My team of producers and writers always take time to work on my songs.”
Schedule
“I am very busy. Each day is a new challenge and an opportunity to impact more lives through music.”
“The platform to excel has
been provided by my pastor.
Myself
“I am Osinachi Kalu, the second daughter of seven children. I am from Ebonyi State. I studied Physics at the University of Port Harcout, Rivers State. I discovered I had a talent and I pursued my passion rather than practicing my profession. My objective in the music ministry was to write songs for the church alone. But there was a great demand to make my songs available to other people, hence, the need to launch this new album.”
Born again experience
“It is awesome. I got born again over 20 years ago. The Bible says He takes us from glory to glory. This experience is true for my walk with God. I have experienced increasing grace and favour.”
Growing up
“Growing up was exciting. My father was a loving man and I had a great family. The memories of my childhood are wonderful and exciting. My parents taught me to be truthful at all times. They instilled discipline in us.”
Marriage
“Not yet. It would come at the right time.”
How much have you affected lives with your songs?
“The platform to excel has been provided by my pastor. We were working with God’s word. I didn’t know how much impact we were making in people’s lives until we traveled outside the country. When I go for programmes, I get tired of singing into people’s phones. I have seen miracles take place through my songs and I give God all the glory.”
How do you handle criticisms?
“Criticism comes with success. If you are not doing something big, nobody will criticize you. It is a sign that you are making an impact and that you are influencing lives. I do not dwell on negative criticism. However, it is important that I listen to constructive criticism from someone who knows what it takes to succeed in life. I am so blessed to be surrounded with valuable and godly mentors who continuously offer positive and constructive criticisms and I listen to them.”
Mentors
“I have great examples of leadership, godliness, faith, excellence, courage and success around me. Pastor Chris and Pastor Anita Oyakhilome are my mentors. Rev. Tom and Pastor Joy Amenkhienan, Evangelist Eddy Owase, Pastor Ose Oyakhilome and my mum, Mrs. C.M. Okoro. These people and more have influenced my life in great ways. I thank God for surrounding me with them. I couldn’t have been able to do what I am doing without the direction and influence of my pastors.”
Upcoming artistes
“They would need a lot of patience. They have to cook first, endure and do music overtime before reaping the fruits. They must have true passion and courage, acquire experience and build their fan base. They must also be faithful in building relationships.”
Where do you see the brand Sinach in the next five years?
“I have been working with the LoveWorld Music for over 15years and we have consistently improved and increased in quality, delivery and influence. I believe that the influence of my kind of music will consistently appreciate in the coming years. My music is gospel, and it is good news. It is a collection that will inspire, empower and improve every listener. You can find yourself in my music. In the next five years, I will have more people listening to my kind of music. Children can have godly music to sing and dance at home, especially at this time when young people are looking for hope and help. My music presents hope, faith for the future and points them to the help that they need. Good news!
“In the coming years, I see us doing more DVD recordings and more studio recordings from our team here in the LoveWorld Music. As a song writer, I see me writing songs that will influence the whole nation and the world. I also see us writing songs that will majorly influence praise and worship genre. I believe that we are going to see quality and extraordinary music production that is filled with the anointing of the Spirit of God coming from this side of the world to the rest of the world making global impact."
Colorado Mass Choir, under the direction of acclaimed songwriter/producer Joe Pace, has evolved into one of gospel music's most popular choirs. The choir, formed in 1995 out of a community-wide choral workshop that took place in Colorado Springs, CO, is comprised of over 60 members from 35 different churches throughout the state. The choir became an instant success through their 1995 debut album for Verity Records, Watch God Move. The album yielded such popular songs as the title track "Watch God Move," "Still Have Joy," and the smash hit "Stir Up the Gift." The choir was richly rewarded for the success of this album, receiving a Stellar Award for New Artist of the Year in 1997, as well as four GMWA Gospel Music Excellence Award Nominations in 1997 in the categories of Album of the Year, New Artist of the Year (Contemporary), New Artist of the Year (Traditional), and Song of the Year for "Stir Up the Gift."
The accolades continued to roll in with the choir's sophomore project, the 1998 release entitled So Good. The project featured a number of special guests, including Kim Rutherford, who appears on the track "At the Cross"; the husband/wife duo Angelo & Veronica, who are featured on "Yes He Loves Me" with Veronica going solo on the track "Bless His Holy Name"; and Min. Kenneth Wells, who was the vocal catalyst behind the hit "Stir Up the Gift," taking the reigns on the track "He Takes Care of His Own." The album ended up receiving four Stellar Award nominations in 1999 for Choir of the Year, Traditional Choir of the Year, Traditional Album of the Year, and Producer of the Year, (Joe Pace), along with two Dove Award nominations for Traditional Album of the Year and Traditional Song of the Year for the titled track, "So Good."
Joe Pace and the Colorado Mass Choir would eventually release two more albums on the Verity label, the 1999 release God's Got It, which featured a guest vocal appearance by award-winning artist/songwriter/producer Fred Hammond, and the 2001 compilation Joe Pace and the Colorado Mass Choir -- The Greatest Hits. Also in 2001, the choir inked a recording deal with Mobile, AL-based praise & worship label Integrity Music and released their debut project for the label, entitled Glad About It.
| 2001 | Joe Pace Presents: Let There Be Praise | Word/Epic / Integrity | |||||
 | 2001 | Glad About It! | Word/Epic / Sony Music Distribution | ||||
| 2002 | Joe Pace Presents: Shake the Foundation | Integrity / Sony Music Distribution | ||||
| 2002 | In the Spirit | Integrity | ||||
| 2003 | Speak Life | Integrity / Sony Music Distribution | ||||
| 2004 | Joe Pace Presents: Sunday Morning Service | Integrity Gospel/Epic | ||||
| 2006 | Mighty Long Way | Columbia / Sony Music Distribution | ||||
| 2007 | Joe Pace Presents: Worship for the Kingdom | NuSpring | ||||
 | 2007 | Joe Pace Presents: Worship for the Kids | Sony CMG | ||||
| 2010 | Joe Pace Presents: Praise for the Sanctuary | Tyscot / Tyscot Records |
Videos by Joe Pace
JOHN P. KEE
Early life
John P. Kee was born the 15th of 16 children in Durham, North Carolina. At an early age he began to develop his musical talent both instrumentally and vocally. He attended the North Carolina School of the Arts in Winston-Salem and at 14, he and his brothers Wayne and Al moved to California where he began attending the Yuba College Conservatory School of Music in Marysville, California. During this time, he began playing with various groups such as Cameo and Donald Byrd and the Blackbyrds. After having a hard time adjusting in California, he left and moved to Charlotte, North Carolina only to find himself living in a part of the city known for its violence and drug activities. After watching one of his friends being murdered in a drug deal gone bad, he rededicated his life back to God during a visitation to a revival meeting.
Ministry
Kee says that it was during a trip to Michigan with his choir that he received a calling from God to be a preacher. Kee was in his mid-twenties when he became an ordained minister. In 1995, while ministering in Ohio, he received a prophetic vision and went forward with the building of a Fellowship Center in Charlotte which could minister to the people in the community. He officially founded the New Life Fellowship Center where he became and remains the senior pastor. The church is located in the same area where he had once led a life of crime and drugs.Musical career
In the mid-1980s, Kee formed a community choir in Charlotte known as the New Life Community Choir or "NLCC." Over time the choir grew in popularity and has continued to travel throughout the area. The choir also includes some of Kee's own children.In 1990, Kee founded the Victory in Praise Music and Arts Seminar Mass Choir, or "V.I.P." in order to fellowship with various ministries, song writers, musicians and choir directors from all over the country.
Kee has been active for more than 20 years in the music field. He is primarily known for mixing traditional gospel with modern contemporary gospel and for having a soulful husky voice. His cd entitled "The Reunion," released on December 5, 2005, features some of the old members of New Life Community Choir.
In 2007 Kee was inducted into the Christian Music Hall of Fame.[1] He also has an album, Nothing But Worship, which features the smash hit Right Now Praise.
In 2011, Kee released another solo album "The Legacy Project" which consists of many Gospel singers such as Rance Allen and Fred Hammond
Kee is also known as "The Prince of Gospel Music".
Personal life
In December 1995, he married Felice Sampson, and they are the parents of nine children. His son Chris Kee was recently selected to join Sean P. Diddy Combs' live band as a drummer for his upcoming tour for the "Last Train to Paris". A few of his sons sang back vocals on the song, "Harvest", from the album, The Color of Music.Interview: Gospel Legend John P. Kee
John P. Kee
Whether you measure success in gospel music by the Billboard charts, prestigious awards, or good works, Pastor John P. Kee is one of the titans of the field. The influential gospel pianist, singer, and songwriter returns to his native Durham with his New Life Community Choir for two concerts at the Hayti Heritage Center on September 14 and 15, fresh off the release of new record Life & Favor, which is streaming at the bottom of this post. A delightful raconteur with a raspy voice and a ready laugh, Pastor Kee generously answered our questions about his fascinating life story by telephone. Read on to get acquainted with one of contemporary gospel’s most ardent fishers of men—and also, it turns out, of fish.
The Thread: Can you tell us about the path from growing up in Durham to being a gospel star and minister?
John P. Kee: I was really influenced by my brothers, Al and Wayne, who were very accomplished musicians. I started a little choir in Durham around 1975 called Revelational Experience. We would travel to Winston-Salem and Greensboro; we thought that was big time. That was like going to New York! I think it all came from my dad, who had a choir called the Southland Gospel Singers in the ‘40s. Because of the prejudice in the South, they were not allowed there, and for me, [touring in the South] was almost like something he didn’t get to accomplish.
John Henry Kee and the Southland Gospel Singers (photo courtesy of John P. Kee)
So he has 16 children, 6 boys, and he names me, the last one, after him: John Jr. I picked up that mantle and started the choir going forth. I use the word “divine” kind of often, but it’s like it was touched, something given to me. Even playing the piano—it was purchased for my older siblings. I was just passing by it every day, sitting down and figuring out a few chords here and there, and before you know it, I’m the musician of the house. Everything fell in line almost like a storybook.
My talents were noticed by a lady named Helen Edwards, who was the music teacher at Rogers-Herr middle school. She said, “How would you like to be in a play?” And it was The ToyMaker, a musical. I was like, “No, I’m a football player!” But low-key, I had a love for opera, and I could not tell anybody that. She convinced me to be the toymaker for this Christmas musical, and the [football team] gave me their blessing. And before you know it, here I am off to the North Carolina School of the Arts.
After Winston-Salem, you studied in California for some time.
Yuba College. This is an amazing story: In 1992 or so, I got the chance to have one-on-one studies with Charles Ashworth, the renowned producer in Nashville that goes by the name Charlie Peacock. I’m really number one on the Billborad Charts then; we’re selling mega CDs; and I see my picture and this guy’s picture in an article and say, “I know him! That’s Charlie Peacock!” I knew him as a piano player; everybody else knew him as a big time producer in Nashville. This is something I have in my archive and I’ll release it in years to come: a project called The Interpretation of Kee. I’ve got everybody on that project from George Duke and Billy Preston to Charlie Peacock. With just acoustic piano, no accompaniment, they all played one of John P. Kee’s songs, and it’s amazing.
So that’s a project that’s been coming together for some time?
I’ve been working on it for years! Look, I’ve got volumes one, two, and three now. Chip Crawford is on it from Durham. Richard Smallwood is on it, some of the greatest piano players in the country.
We also have Richard Smallwood & Vision coming this year, as well as Mighty Clouds of Joy.
Let me tell you about both of the groups: Richard was such a dynamic force of structuring my attitude for sound. Richard was always one of the cleanest producers in gospel music; you could always hear his harmonies. As far as Mighty Clouds of Joy, I did another project called The Legacy Project where I took all the pioneers—Joe Ligon from Mighty Clouds of Joy, Harvey Watkins, Fred Hammond, Anthony Hamilton, the Williams Brothers—and we really went back and grabbed some music from my childhood. Right now I’ve got my sons studying the Dixie Hummingbirds and they hate it, but I want them to understand where harmonies in music came from, how daddy taught me.
How did you get from California back to North Carolina?
John P. Kee
I started working with the Black Universe Pageant, training voices. I moved back here and got a little sidetracked. I started working at a small grocery store in the Double Oaks community of Charlotte. I started to sell illegal drugs and got way out of whack. I’m talking 1979, ‘80, ‘81. Dad died in July of ‘81 and it kind of opened my eyes. It was around that time that I surrendered my life to the Lord and turned it around.
What’s amazing now is that I pastor in that same community that I poisoned. I get a chance to make it right. I’ve got the New Life Christian Academy School of the Arts for the children of the inner city, and of course the church is here, which houses almost 60 wonderful outreach programs: everything from Adopt-a-Family to Project Renovate, where we go into seniors’ homes. This past week we put a garage on a brother’s house who was an amputee. I’ll tell you, I love how it all—well, I don’t want to say ended; I’ve got a few more years to go.
Is gospel music’s focus on redemption what gives your music its power, since you’ve lived it?
More than just redemption, I think it also has to do with stability. We always thought if you came to church and gave, you got more stuff, looking at the televangelist on the TV. I moved away from “more stuff” to “Lord, sustain where I am,” and I think that’s been the premise and strength of my teaching. Instead of begging for more, what happens when we learn to appreciate what we already have?
That’s a quite different message than the so-called prosperity gospel that’s popular in many quarters.
You know what, I think we blew it with that. So many people got so into gaining that they weren’t sustaining. I still have a faith message that you can get, but first, stop and appreciate what you already have.
How do you find the right balance in your time between the music industry and ministry?
And I love to fish! And I’m an artist on the side, I’ve got my paintings. It all comes together. I think it’s because I have a family that appreciates me and I don’t take it for granted. I know this evening, I promised my baby girl we’ll go out on the lake—she’s a fisherwoman, if you will; she’s patient and so she catches the bigger fish. I’ve also got a great infrastructure and staff. The church is one of the largest churches here, and I don’t care if I’m in China; I’m trying to find a way to get back in that pulpit on Sunday.
Who all do you have singing and playing on the new record, Life & Favor?
Life & Favor
Wow, are you ready? I’ve got Lalah Hathaway, Frank McComb, Fred Hammond, Kirk Franklin, Leandria Johnson, Kim Burrell, Glenn Jones, and of course the New Life Community Choir—it’s actually their project. In this time of the recession that nobody wants to admit, people are having it pretty hard, and it’s just songs to encourage them. So far, from the noise we’re gaining on Twitter and Facebook, people are enjoying it. It’s all original songs.
So you’re bringing to the New Life Community Choir to the Hayti Heritage Center.
That’ll be not only special, that’s almost like full circle. I received the James Cleveland Lifetime Achievement Award from Stellar this year, and that was special because James Cleveland gave me my start. To be in Durham is almost like that circle touching again, because that’s where we all wanted to sing, get in that little auditorium and do something, back in the day. So to be invited back to do a concert is a wonderful thing. I’ve got something great planned for that concert. We’re going to take them down memory lane, and we might even open up the request line and let them tell us what to sing.
We’ll let people know to have requests ready! Anything else you’d like to share about this concert?
Mrs. Ethel G. Shannon (photo courtesy of John P. Kee)
My grandmother, Mrs. Ethel G. Shannon, who’s a 100 years old, speaks volume about the music as far as the way I think we’ve been able to maintain over the years. I would do contemporary numbers, but I would always do one traditional song that would really excite grandma, and I’ve kept that tradition over 30 years. That makes it so there’s something for everyone on a John P. Kee CD. The last song on the new CD says “he’s making a way” and that came from her. She said that one day, and I sat down and bam, there it was. She’s going to be at this concert too.
STREAM LIFE & FAVOR:
John P. Kee
The Thread: Can you tell us about the path from growing up in Durham to being a gospel star and minister?
John P. Kee: I was really influenced by my brothers, Al and Wayne, who were very accomplished musicians. I started a little choir in Durham around 1975 called Revelational Experience. We would travel to Winston-Salem and Greensboro; we thought that was big time. That was like going to New York! I think it all came from my dad, who had a choir called the Southland Gospel Singers in the ‘40s. Because of the prejudice in the South, they were not allowed there, and for me, [touring in the South] was almost like something he didn’t get to accomplish.
John Henry Kee and the Southland Gospel Singers (photo courtesy of John P. Kee)
My talents were noticed by a lady named Helen Edwards, who was the music teacher at Rogers-Herr middle school. She said, “How would you like to be in a play?” And it was The ToyMaker, a musical. I was like, “No, I’m a football player!” But low-key, I had a love for opera, and I could not tell anybody that. She convinced me to be the toymaker for this Christmas musical, and the [football team] gave me their blessing. And before you know it, here I am off to the North Carolina School of the Arts.
After Winston-Salem, you studied in California for some time.
Yuba College. This is an amazing story: In 1992 or so, I got the chance to have one-on-one studies with Charles Ashworth, the renowned producer in Nashville that goes by the name Charlie Peacock. I’m really number one on the Billborad Charts then; we’re selling mega CDs; and I see my picture and this guy’s picture in an article and say, “I know him! That’s Charlie Peacock!” I knew him as a piano player; everybody else knew him as a big time producer in Nashville. This is something I have in my archive and I’ll release it in years to come: a project called The Interpretation of Kee. I’ve got everybody on that project from George Duke and Billy Preston to Charlie Peacock. With just acoustic piano, no accompaniment, they all played one of John P. Kee’s songs, and it’s amazing.
So that’s a project that’s been coming together for some time?
I’ve been working on it for years! Look, I’ve got volumes one, two, and three now. Chip Crawford is on it from Durham. Richard Smallwood is on it, some of the greatest piano players in the country.
We also have Richard Smallwood & Vision coming this year, as well as Mighty Clouds of Joy.
Let me tell you about both of the groups: Richard was such a dynamic force of structuring my attitude for sound. Richard was always one of the cleanest producers in gospel music; you could always hear his harmonies. As far as Mighty Clouds of Joy, I did another project called The Legacy Project where I took all the pioneers—Joe Ligon from Mighty Clouds of Joy, Harvey Watkins, Fred Hammond, Anthony Hamilton, the Williams Brothers—and we really went back and grabbed some music from my childhood. Right now I’ve got my sons studying the Dixie Hummingbirds and they hate it, but I want them to understand where harmonies in music came from, how daddy taught me.
How did you get from California back to North Carolina?
John P. Kee
What’s amazing now is that I pastor in that same community that I poisoned. I get a chance to make it right. I’ve got the New Life Christian Academy School of the Arts for the children of the inner city, and of course the church is here, which houses almost 60 wonderful outreach programs: everything from Adopt-a-Family to Project Renovate, where we go into seniors’ homes. This past week we put a garage on a brother’s house who was an amputee. I’ll tell you, I love how it all—well, I don’t want to say ended; I’ve got a few more years to go.
Is gospel music’s focus on redemption what gives your music its power, since you’ve lived it?
More than just redemption, I think it also has to do with stability. We always thought if you came to church and gave, you got more stuff, looking at the televangelist on the TV. I moved away from “more stuff” to “Lord, sustain where I am,” and I think that’s been the premise and strength of my teaching. Instead of begging for more, what happens when we learn to appreciate what we already have?
That’s a quite different message than the so-called prosperity gospel that’s popular in many quarters.
You know what, I think we blew it with that. So many people got so into gaining that they weren’t sustaining. I still have a faith message that you can get, but first, stop and appreciate what you already have.
How do you find the right balance in your time between the music industry and ministry?
And I love to fish! And I’m an artist on the side, I’ve got my paintings. It all comes together. I think it’s because I have a family that appreciates me and I don’t take it for granted. I know this evening, I promised my baby girl we’ll go out on the lake—she’s a fisherwoman, if you will; she’s patient and so she catches the bigger fish. I’ve also got a great infrastructure and staff. The church is one of the largest churches here, and I don’t care if I’m in China; I’m trying to find a way to get back in that pulpit on Sunday.
Who all do you have singing and playing on the new record, Life & Favor?
Life & Favor
So you’re bringing to the New Life Community Choir to the Hayti Heritage Center.
That’ll be not only special, that’s almost like full circle. I received the James Cleveland Lifetime Achievement Award from Stellar this year, and that was special because James Cleveland gave me my start. To be in Durham is almost like that circle touching again, because that’s where we all wanted to sing, get in that little auditorium and do something, back in the day. So to be invited back to do a concert is a wonderful thing. I’ve got something great planned for that concert. We’re going to take them down memory lane, and we might even open up the request line and let them tell us what to sing.
We’ll let people know to have requests ready! Anything else you’d like to share about this concert?
Mrs. Ethel G. Shannon (photo courtesy of John P. Kee)
STREAM LIFE & FAVOR:
YINKA AYEFELE
MUSIC, NOT MY FIRST LOVE…
Initially, I didn’t have the passion for music. I thought I would become a banker or work in a firm as a clerk. I did not have the intention of going into music at all, even when I was younger as a chorister. I joined the church choir at an early age. My parents did not encourage me to go into music. It was later after the accident that I decided to take up music as my chosen career. I started music in December 12, 1999. It was at the Bitter Experience album launch. I did the launch to raise fund for my treatment. But people kept calling me to request for more copies of the album: “Ayefele we love that album and we need to get more of it”, they would tell me each time they called. And it encouraged me to do more songs and that was why I decided to really go into music. After the launch of the album, a lot of people deposited money for their copies. So, we quickly went back to produce more copies. When I saw the acceptance of the first work, I decided to go fully into music as my chosen career.
ABOUT MY ALBUMS…
I have 15 albums now. For me, there’s no favourite among them. What I do is that I put all my effort in each album.
MY DEFINING MOMENT…
Yes, the day that I had that accident was a turning point in my life. Probably if it did not happen, I would still remain in broadcasting and presenting my programmes on radio – ‘Piri Lologo Nji’, ‘Big Beat’, ‘Lagbo Faaji’ and ‘Temidire’ on as usual. But I would only be known in my jurisdiction there and not be known globally. I started presenting in 1989. That moment truly rewrote the story of my life. I give all glory to God almighty, because it is not easy to be successful in life and God has really been on my side, I must confess. Looking back at 13 years ago when I had the accident, I never knew that I would still be relevant till today. I did not lose hope and I keep doing what I know best (music) and that explains why I’m where I am today. I give Him the glory for bringing me this far.
PECULIAR CHALLENGES…
The challenges that Nigerian musician face is piracy, because we work very hard to produce these works but our efforts are not rewarded enough. I know that my music travel far and wide, but unfortunately for me, I cannot give account of the financial returns I get because of piracy. For instance, the enlightened people on the internet are defrauding us. If you go to the internet, you will see a lot of people selling my works and I don’t know how to nip it in the bud. They are selling it in America and European countries and getting well paid at my expense. That is the major challenge we are facing in the industry. We have been begging the federal government to intervene and invest in the music industry. Doing that alone will make the industry move forward and piracy can be silenced.
COUNTING MY BLESSINGS…
To God be the glory, I have won a lot of awards, I have a brand name that is solid. I have my own studio well equipped. I have travelled far and wide with my band boys. I usually count my blessings and give thanks to the almighty God.
WHAT I OWE MY LATE BENEFACTORS…
Without Kola Olawuyi and Gbenga Adeboye in my life, I may not be alive today. I was working with Kola Olawuyi by supporting his famous programme, Nnkan Nbe when he was alive. I produced the entire musical jingle he used on his programme and I produced theme songs for the programmes as well. For Gbenga Adeboye of blessed memory, I produced Choices, one of his albums. So, these people really exposed me one way or the other and I have a very good relationship with them till death. In my trying times, they stood by me; they supported me financially and morally. I can never forget them in my life and it is a colossal loss to the entertainment industry to lose these titans. Kola Olotu was the one who came to the hospital and when he saw me on my sick bed, he said, “Yinka, why can’t you put some songs together to see how we can raise some funds for you so that you can go abroad for further treatments.” He was the one who suggested it and thank God I heeded his advice and it worked for me and that is why I will forever remain grateful to Kola Olotu.
MY BACKGROUND…
Yinka Ayefele was born in Ipoto Ekiti in Ekiti State. I started my education at Our Saviour’s Anglican Primary School in Ipoti Ekiti, later to Ipoti Community Secondary School and I finished my secondary school education at Ipoti High School. I went in for Political Science at the Ondo State College of Art and Science, but unfortunately for me, due to financial incompetence, I was unable to finish. So, I moved to Ibadan to join the FRCN Ibadan national station and I had the opportunity of presenting. I later became an independent producer till I had the accident in December 12, 1997.
ROLE MODELS…
Late Orlando Owoh, King Sunny Ade, Dr. Ebenezer Obey and IK Dairo of blessed memory are the ones whose music inspires me.
HAPPIEST MOMENT…
My happiest moment is yet to come, I am still hoping for it. But I am happy every day. I have not accomplished my goals. I never knew music would take me this far and I’m grateful to God because I always remember that I am not the only musician in Nigeria, but my music is well accepted by millions of fans. One thing I want you to know is that God favours me a lot and that was why I give praise to Him every time. I will never give up on coming back on my feet, because I am not God and when God says yes, nobody can say no. God has said it to me that I will still work with my two legs through the men of God and I believe strongly in it. More so, I have seen the vision myself, I don’t know when it’s going to be and how it’s going to happen, but God confirmed it to me that it is going to come to past. And God is no man, He doesn’t tell lies and He honours His words more than His name. I’m patiently waiting for the day.
watch his video here
THE JONATHAN HANDSHAKE…
I have never dreamt of shaking any minister in my life let alone the number citizen of our great country, President Goodluck Jonathan. But it recently happened. To be honest with you, on that faithful day that the president shook my hand, what was in my hand fell down. This was because I was very nervous. To me, it was a great privilege and I felt so happy.
MY FAMILY…
We are fine, my wife and my kids; Ayomide and Olumide are doing great.
INTERVIEW WITH HADUNNI OLUWAWA
Hadunni: My names are Hadunni Abimbola Bunkunola Oasis Ogunjumelo.I am from Osun State.I read accountancy. I worked at Unipetrol now Oando Ibadan branch, as an account assistant, also had a brief stint at Nigeria Airways as an auditor.I got born again in 1988.I am married to Pastor Samuel Ogunjumelo and blessed with wonderful kids.I am the Chief Servant of Hadunni Entertainment,Special Senior Strategist at White Horse Movement.Our products are MINDS EVENT, RAMP MAGAZINE, KIDNEY REJOICE AND MINDS ON TV TRUE LIFE TV SERIES.I am through God's grace a film producer, a publisher , a youth coach and a gospel minister.
Jobuesi Music: How did Hadunni Oluwawa begin?
Hadunni: I am one of the very few that God gave the grace of multiple talents.I was once known only for my music ministry but the other talents later started coming to the fore. So I needed a compound name that defines who I truly represent. So we decided to brand all my talents under one compound name....considering all my names that defines who I truly represent.So we decided to brand all my talents under one compound name....considering all my names the one that fitted properly was ADUNNI, my oriki.We later added a "H " to it. This stands for the HolySpirit....He is the drive I have.My source and greatest motivator.
Jobuesi Music : It's becoming a normal trend for musicians to come in with gospel songs, then go circular. Whats your take on this?
Hadunni: Funny enough, I also at a time started calling myself an inspirational singer. Most of them started out in church. As an upcomer, most gospel acts believe you have to put a little of secular into it, so that you can be accepted.This is a marketing gimmick but most times, most of them find it so difficult to stand for who they truly are. Before you know it, secular grows faster because it is wide so they drift to secular. I believe that if you are called by God, then you should represent God.I was corrected by God and immediately, I started reffering to myself as a gospel act.I am content with the platform The Gospel has thrown at me.Yes a lot of US are told that, we will do better as in receive greater pay pack if we go secular.I am content with the gospel. I know whom I believe, He is able, more than able to carry me. Also the church isn't helping matters.If you can pay and appreciate a pastor, then you should appreciate a minstrel, they are ministers of the word too, though through music.Gospel acts are treated like trash.They go for ministrations and the church responds by saying "...brethren let US pray for our people".That is not it, encourage them.
Jobuesi Music: Where do you feel Gospel music is, in this dispensation and in this
part of the world?
part of the world?
Hadunni: Right now gospel is realizing that it is key to the 2nd coming of the Lord. So everybody is working hard now.The devil wants to destroy the whole universe with entertainment. This is why God has increased the outpouring of greater talents into the music industry.We have a lot of great acts that are great blessings. Our young men are seeing visions....there is a great outpouring of God's Spirit in the gospel music ministry right now.We just need to harness this with proper packaging, branding and professionalism.
Jobuesi Music: What are those things that needs to be done for gospel music to move farther than where it is now?
Hadunni: First and foremost...I believe each gospel artistt should define their relationship with God, Be truly born again. Eran Ara ko le Sise yi.You must be Spirit filled.Then we need a lot of professionalism.We need to have a dynamic Christian body that unites gospel musicians.We need more platforms. Corporate Organizations should invest in gospel, we buy their products they should patronize US too.We should pray more, love more and unite more.
Jobuesi Music: Who are your role models musically localy and internationally?
Hadunni: I do not have any role model but I have people who inspire me.Christ is my only role model.Those who inspire me are, midnight crew, Lara George, tope alabi, Sinach, frank Edwards, and a lot of upcoming artists.The following people also inspire me, MAC OLADEJO, ITUAH IGHODALO, BABA ADEBOYE, BISHOP OYEDEPO, PST. BIODUN FATOYINBO, MIKE ABDUL, PST FEMI PAUL, JOYCE MEYER, LATE BIMBO ODUKOYA, GHANDI, MOTHER THERESA, MANDELA, MY LATE DAD, MY HUSBAND AND THE BIBLE.
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