In the vibrant world of Afrobeats, several artists have followed their musical dreams despite being raised by fathers who are pastors.
The Nigerian music industry, especially the Afrobeats genre, has seen the rise of many talented artists from diverse backgrounds. Interestingly, some of these Afrobeats artists have roots deeply embedded in religious upbringing, with their fathers serving as pastors. Despite their secular music careers, these artists often credit their early exposure to music to their church experiences.
Here are some notable Afrobeats artists whose fathers are pastors:
6. MI Abaga
Jude Abaga, professionally known as MI Abaga, is an award-winning Nigerian rapper, recording artist, and record producer. Born on October 4, 1981, in Jos, Plateau State, he started his education at Baptist High School, Jos, where he nurtured his love for music. He later pursued a degree in Business and Economics at Calvin College in Michigan, USA.
MI’s music career started in earnest when he returned to Nigeria in 2003, and he gained recognition with his hit track Crowd Mentality in 2006. He later released his critically acclaimed debut album, Talk About It, in 2008. In June 2015, he was appointed CEO of Chocolate City.
Despite his secular success, MI Abaga’s father is a pastor, and his upbringing in a religious home influenced his lyrical depth and storytelling skills.
5. Reekado Banks
Reekado Banks, a Nigerian recording artist, rapper, and songwriter, was formerly signed to Mavin Records. Before his record deal, he went by the stage name “Spicy.” In 2014, he graduated from the University of Lagos with a degree in History and Strategic Studies.
Reekado Banks was signed to Mavin Records after being selected from over 5,000 entries. He released his debut single Turn Up in 2015, followed by Katapot the same year. In 2018, he left Mavin Records to start his independent outfit, Banks Music.
His father is a pastor, and his mother is a caterer, reflecting a balance between religious upbringing and creative expression.
4. Johnny Drille
Johnny Drille, born on July 5, 1990, in Edo State, is a Nigerian record producer, songwriter, and singer. He holds a degree in English and Literature from the University of Benin. His music career took off after he participated in the 6th edition of MTN Project Fame West Africa. In 2015, he gained attention with his cover of Awww, a song by Mavin artist Di’ja, followed by the release of his first single, Wait for Me.
Johnny Drille is also a skilled instrumentalist, with the ability to play multiple instruments. His father, an ordained pastor and school principal, influenced his early exposure to music, particularly gospel melodies.
3. Terry G
Gabriel Oche Amanyi, known as Terry G, is a Nigerian rapper and songwriter born on March 7, 1986, in Lagos. He hails from the Idoma tribe of Benue State. Terry G’s music is known for its eccentric style and energetic beats. He started singing in the church choir at a young age and later ventured into secular music
In 2013, he released his critically acclaimed album, Book of Ginger. Despite his unconventional music style, his father is an ordained pastor, and his early exposure to church music played a role in shaping his musical foundation.
2. Zlatan Ibile
Omoniyi Temidayo Raphael, popularly known as Zlatan Ibile, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, rapper, and dancer. A graduate of Business Administration from Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Zlatan gained prominence in 2017 after featuring Olamide in his single My Body. His breakthrough came the following year with the release of Zanku, a song that popularized a unique dance style of the same name.
Interestingly, Zlatan’s father is a pastor in the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG). Despite his secular lifestyle and energetic performances, Zlatan often references his religious background and attributes his success to divine blessings.
1. Lil Kesh
Lil Kesh, born in Bariga, Lagos State, is a Nigerian singer, rapper, and songwriter. He began his music career in Bariga, rapping among his peers. His first single, Lyrically, gained massive recognition in Nigerian universities. In 2014, he rose to prominence after releasing his hit single Shoki, which became a street anthem across Nigeria.
Despite his energetic and sometimes controversial musical style, Lil Kesh’s father is an ordained pastor and a church owner. His upbringing in a religious household has influenced his values, even as he navigates the secular music industry.
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