Nigerian gospel artists are leading the way on Spotify Africa, with Nathaniel Bassey, Moses Bliss, and Mercy Chinwo among the most streamed performers in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Spotify recently unveiled the list of the top gospel artists in the region, highlighting the remarkable growth of Nigerian music, which has significantly influenced the gospel genre.
This year’s Spotify Wrapped 2024 showcased a notable shift in Africa’s musical landscape, with gospel music claiming the ninth position among the continent’s most streamed genres.
Listeners are drawn to the dynamic choirs of South Africa and the inspiring voices of Nigerian gospel artists, captivated by their uplifting messages and melodic tunes. While international gospel music has historically enjoyed popularity in Africa, emerging local talents are now taking the spotlight.
This revival of African gospel music underscores its increasing significance and cultural impact. Notably, Nathaniel Bassey ranks second on the list of most streamed gospel artists, just behind Maverick City Music, with other Nigerian artists such as Moses Bliss, Dunsin Oyekan, Sunmisola Agbebi, and Mercy Chinwo also making the top 10.
Gospel musicians have rejuvenated the genre through innovative blends with Afrobeats, attracting a broader audience. A standout example is Annatoria from Zimbabwe, whose Afrobeats version of Maverick City’s “In the Room” has garnered significant attention, making her the highest-streamed female Afro-gospel artist with 600,000 monthly listeners.
The influence of Afro-gospel is further illustrated by Chandler Moore’s hit “Omemma,” co-written with Afro-gospel artist Tim Godfrey. This song landed a spot in the top 20 most-streamed gospel songs in the region and went viral on various social media platforms.
Here is the list of the top 10 most streamed gospel artists in Sub-Saharan Africa on Spotify:
1. Maverick City Music
2. Nathaniel Bassey
3. Joyous Celebration
4. Spirit of Praise
5. Moses Bliss
6. Dunsin Oyekan
7. Chandler Moore
8. Sunmisola Agbebi
9. Mercy Chinwo
10. CeCe Winans
And the top 10 most streamed gospel songs in Sub-Saharan Africa:
1. Sunmisola Agbebi – B’Ola (Honour)
2. Ebuka Songs – I will pray
3. Elevation Worship, Brandon Lake, Chris Brown, Chandler Moore – Praise (feat. Brandon Lake, Chris Brown & Chandler Moore)
4. Moses Bliss, Festizie, Chizie, Neeja, S.O.N Music, Ajay Asika – You Are Great
5. Spirit Of Praise, Mpumi Mtsweni – Thath’Indawo (Live)
6. Xolly Mncwango – Ungukuphila
7. Hillsong Worship, Brooke Ligertwood – What A Beautiful Name
8. Elevation Worship, Maverick City Music, Chandler Moore, Naomi Raine – Jireh (feat. Chandler Moore & Naomi Raine)
9. Ebuka Songs – Calling My Name (I’m A Soldier) – Live
10. CeCe Winans – Goodness of God – Live
Story by Obaapa Janee
