“Born and raised in Benin City, my childhood was filled with the simple joys of street play and community interactions. With a doctor for a father and a teacher for a mother, I grew up in a household that valued both knowledge and compassion. Music was always in the background, thanks to my parents’ influence, and it became a central part of my identity long before I realized it.”

Let’s go down memory lane: tell us about your childhood and family background

I was born and raised in Benin City, which holds a special place in my heart. My family played a significant role in shaping who I am today. My father is a doctor, and my mother is a teacher, which provided me with a balanced perspective on both the importance of knowledge and the value of compassion. Being an only child to my mother and the first child of my father, I had a unique experience growing up, often navigating the dynamics of being the center of attention in my immediate family.
My childhood was filled with the simple joys of playing on the streets, a common experience for many children in Benin City. The community atmosphere and the typical Benin children’s environment were pivotal in shaping my early social interactions and sense of belonging.
For my education, I began at the Air Force Primary School in Benin City, which laid the foundation for my academic journey. I then attended University Preparatory Secondary School, also in Benin City, where I continued to build on that foundation. My pursuit of higher education led me to Ambrose Alli University, where I earned my BSc, and later to the University of Derby for my MSc. These educational experiences, deeply rooted in both Nigerian and international contexts, have been integral to my personal and professional growth.

Let’s go back in time; elaborate on your musical background and what/who sparked your interest in music

Music has always been a deeply ingrained part of my life, thanks to the influence of both of my parents. From a young age, I was surrounded by melodies and rhythms that shaped my appreciation for music. My mother, in particular, played a significant role in this. I have vivid memories of hearing her sing during her prayers—her voice carrying a sense of devotion and peace that resonated with me deeply. I would often find myself emulating her, trying to capture that same spirit and emotion in my own way.
On the other hand, my father brought a more professional influence into my life. As an executive music producer, he was instrumental in pioneering the careers of many gospel artists in the South-South region of Nigeria. His work introduced me to the world of music production and the power of music to inspire and uplift others. Witnessing his passion and commitment to nurturing talent sparked my own interest in music, and I began to see it not just as a form of expression, but as a way of life.
Together, my parents’ influences created a perfect harmony in my life—one that blended spiritual connection with professional artistry. It was this unique combination that ignited my passion for music and set me on the path I continue to follow today.

Was gospel music always in your life plan or something you adopted along the way? Was the jump to gospel music easy? How did your gospel music career take off?

Gospel music was always in the background of my life, largely due to my parents’ influence, but it wasn’t something I initially planned to pursue as a career. Growing up in a household where my father was deeply involved in producing gospel music and my mother infused her daily life with spiritual songs, gospel music naturally became a part of me. However, it was more of a personal connection than a professional aspiration at first.
The transition to gospel music as a career wasn’t exactly a “jump” but more of a gradual realization. As I grew older, I started to see how powerful and transformative gospel music could be, not just as a listener but as a potential artist. The decision to fully embrace gospel music felt like a natural progression, as it aligned with my values and the spiritual foundation that had been laid early in my life. It wasn’t necessarily easy, as any career shift comes with its challenges, but it felt right.

My gospel music career took off when I began to combine the spiritual lessons from my mother with the technical insights from my father. This blend allowed me to create music that was not only artistically sound but also spiritually meaningful. I started small, performing in local churches and community events, where the reception was overwhelmingly positive. The genuine connection people felt with my music encouraged me to continue and grow.

With time, my work gained recognition, and doors began to open, leading to more significant opportunities. The foundation my father laid in the South-South gospel scene also provided valuable networks and insights that helped me navigate the industry. What started as an expression of faith and personal joy slowly evolved into a full-fledged career, fueled by the passion to inspire others through gospel music.

How do you measure the impact of your music? What kind of feedback have you received? As a minister and recording artist, will you say you thrived better in Nigeria than in the UK where you currently reside?

I measure the impact of my music through the way it touches and transforms lives. For me, the most powerful indicators are the testimonies and personal stories people share with me. When someone tells me that a song brought them comfort during a difficult time, deepened their faith, or inspired them to keep going, it reassures me that my music is making a real difference. Additionally, seeing people engage with the music—whether it’s through singing along, worshipping, or simply reflecting—also shows that the message is resonating.

The feedback I’ve received over the years has been overwhelmingly positive and encouraging. Many listeners express how the music has helped them connect more deeply with their spirituality, and how it has provided solace and strength in their daily lives. This kind of feedback is incredibly humbling and serves as a constant reminder of why I do what I do. It’s not just about the music itself, but about the impact it has on people’s hearts and souls.

As for thriving as a minister and recording artist, I would say that each location—Nigeria and the UK—has offered unique opportunities and challenges. In Nigeria, the cultural and spiritual environment is very conducive to gospel music, with a strong, supportive community and a deep-rooted appreciation for the genre. My career initially took off in Nigeria, where the vibrant gospel scene allowed me to connect with a broad audience and establish my ministry.

However, moving to the UK has also opened new doors. The diversity here has allowed me to reach a wider, more varied audience and bring my music to people from different backgrounds and cultures. While the gospel community in the UK is smaller and the challenges are different, it has pushed me to grow both as an artist and as a minister. I wouldn’t necessarily say I’ve thrived better in one place over the other; rather, I’ve grown and thrived in different ways in each location. Both experiences have been invaluable in shaping my journey and expanding the reach of my music and ministry.

Let’s talk about the trajectory of your journey. You were ordained and served as a reverend in the Church of God Mission as a recording artist. Was pastoring always in the picture?

Pastoring wasn’t something I initially envisioned for myself. While my upbringing was deeply rooted in faith, with strong spiritual influences from both of my parents, my early focus was more on the music side of things. I was passionate about creating music that could inspire and uplift, and that was where I channeled most of my energy.

However, as I grew in my musical journey, I began to realize that music and ministry were deeply interconnected for me. The more I immersed myself in gospel music, the more I felt a calling to do more than just sing—I wanted to guide, teach, and serve. This realization came gradually, as I saw how my music was impacting others and how people were looking to me not just as an artist, but as a spiritual leader.

When the opportunity to be ordained and serve as a reverend in the Church of God Mission presented itself, it felt like a natural next step. It allowed me to merge my passion for music with a deeper commitment to ministry. While pastoring wasn’t always in the picture from the start, it became clear to me over time that this was part of my purpose. Serving as a reverend has given me a broader platform to reach people, not only through music but also through teaching and leading in the faith.

The journey has been one of continuous growth and evolution, where each step—whether in music or ministry—has built upon the previous one, leading me to where I am today. Pastoring has become an integral part of my life, complementing my work as a recording artist and allowing me to serve in a more holistic way.

What essentially influences your lyrics and songwriting process?

My lyrics and songwriting process are deeply influenced by a combination of my faith, personal experiences, and the desire to connect with and uplift others. At the core, my inspiration comes from my relationship with Jesus Christ and the lessons I’ve learned through my spiritual journey. I often draw from scripture, prayer, and moments of reflection, seeking to convey messages of hope, encouragement, and faith through my music.
Personal experiences also play a significant role in shaping my lyrics. Whether it’s a moment of joy, a period of struggle, or a profound realization, I try to channel those emotions and stories into my songs. I believe that music has the power to resonate with people on a personal level, and by sharing my own journey, I hope to touch the hearts of others who may be going through similar situations.

Moreover, I’m influenced by the world around me—the stories I hear, the people I meet, and the challenges we face as a community. I’m always mindful of the impact my music can have, so I strive to write lyrics that are not only relatable but also spiritually enriching. I want my songs to be a source of comfort, strength, and inspiration for anyone who listens.

Your collaboration with Moses Bliss and Eben is commendable. What factors influence your collaborative choice?

Collaborating with Moses Bliss and Eben has been an incredible experience, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to work with such talented and spiritually grounded artists. When it comes to choosing collaborators, several key factors guide my decisions.

First and foremost, I look for a shared spiritual vision. It’s important to me that anyone I collaborate with has a deep commitment to their faith and a genuine passion for using music to inspire and uplift others. Both Moses Bliss and Eben embody these qualities. They are not only exceptional musicians but also dedicated ministers of the gospel, which makes our collaboration resonate on a deeper level.
Another significant factor is the artistic synergy between us. I believe that collaboration should enhance the creative process, bringing together diverse strengths and perspectives to create something truly special. With Moses and Eben, there was a natural connection in our styles and a mutual respect for each other’s work. This synergy allowed us to blend our unique sounds and messages seamlessly, resulting in music that is both powerful and harmonious.

I also consider the potential impact of the collaboration on our audience. I’m always thinking about how the music will be received and how it can serve the listeners. Collaborating with artists like Moses and Eben, who have a strong influence and reach within the gospel community, amplifies the message we want to share. Together, we can touch more lives and spread our message of faith and hope to a wider audience.

Ultimately, my collaborative choices are driven by a desire to create music that glorifies God and has a lasting impact on those who hear it. Working with Moses Bliss and Eben was a natural fit because we all share that same goal, and I’m excited about what we’ve been able to accomplish together.

In your years of doing gospel music, elaborate on the highs and lows you’ve experienced and how you stay afloat.

Over the years, my journey in gospel music has been filled with both incredible highs and challenging lows, each contributing to my growth as an artist and a person of faith.
One of the greatest highs has been witnessing the impact of my music on people’s lives. Knowing that a song I’ve written or performed has touched someone’s heart, brought them closer to God, or provided comfort in a difficult time is incredibly fulfilling. Moments like these remind me of why I embarked on this journey in the first place. Collaborating with other talented gospel artists, performing at significant events, and seeing the positive reception from audiences are also highlights that have fueled my passion for music.

However, like any journey, there have been lows as well. The gospel music industry can be challenging, with its share of obstacles. There are times when it feels like progress is slow, or when external pressures and expectations create stress. Balancing ministry, music, and personal life can be demanding, and there are moments when doubt or fatigue sets in. Additionally, moving from Nigeria to the UK presented its own set of challenges, such as adapting to a new environment and finding my place within a different cultural context.

To stay afloat during these lows, I rely heavily on my faith. Prayer and reflection are essential parts of my routine, helping me stay grounded and focused on my purpose. I remind myself that this journey is about more than just the highs and lows—it’s about fulfilling a calling. Support from my family, friends, and fellow artists also plays a crucial role in keeping me motivated. They offer encouragement, share wisdom, and remind me that I’m not alone in this path.

Another key to staying afloat is maintaining a perspective of gratitude. I try to focus on the blessings and opportunities that have come my way, even in the face of challenges. Every setback is a chance to learn and grow, and every success is a reason to give thanks.

Ultimately, it’s the belief in the power of gospel music to change lives that keeps me going. Knowing that I’m part of something bigger than myself—a mission to spread faith, hope, and love through music—gives me the strength to navigate both the highs and the lows of this journey.

Recently, there has been a plethora of opinions on music ministers remixing secular songs to sound ‘gospel’. What are your thoughts on this?

The trend of remixing secular songs to create gospel versions has indeed sparked a range of opinions, and it’s a topic worth exploring thoughtfully. On one hand, this approach can be seen as a creative way to engage a broader audience and use familiar tunes to convey spiritual messages. By reworking secular melodies into gospel arrangements, music ministers can reach people who might not otherwise be exposed to gospel music, using the power of music to make faith more accessible and relatable.
From a positive perspective, remixing secular songs can serve as a bridge between different musical worlds, allowing gospel messages to resonate in new and innovative ways. It can also provide an opportunity to redeem and repurpose popular music for a higher purpose, aligning with the idea of transforming culture through faith.

However, there are also important considerations to keep in mind. One concern is the potential for diluting the distinctiveness of gospel music. The essence of gospel is deeply rooted in its own traditions, spiritual depth, and unique expressions of faith. Remixing secular songs may sometimes blur these lines, leading to debates about whether the core message of the gospel is being effectively communicated or if the focus shifts more towards the familiarity of the music itself.

Another aspect to consider is the response from the audience and the potential impact on their spiritual experience. For some, the blending of secular and gospel elements may feel like a genuine and effective way to reach out, while for others, it might seem inauthentic or misaligned with the sacred nature of gospel music.

Ultimately, I believe that the approach to remixing secular songs should be guided by intention and sensitivity. If done with a clear and respectful aim of enhancing the gospel message and connecting with listeners in a meaningful way, it can be a valuable tool. However, it’s essential to ensure that the integrity and message of gospel music are preserved and that such creative efforts align with the overall mission of spreading faith and spiritual truth.

From your perspective, is the Nigerian gospel music community representing Jesus as it ought?

The Nigerian gospel music community, in many ways, represents Jesus well through its biblically grounded songs, passionate worship, and cultural relevance. Artists like Sinach, Nathaniel Bassey, and Dunsin Oyekan have greatly impacted the Christian faith, emphasizing Jesus’ love, grace, and power. However, the growing commercial aspect of the industry sometimes leads to a focus on entertainment and celebrity culture, which can detract from the true essence of Christ-centered worship. To fully represent Jesus, the community must continually balance artistry with spiritual depth, ensuring that the message of Jesus remains at the core.

Which gospel minister do you greatly admire and in what way(s) are you inspired by them?

One gospel minister I greatly admire is Eben, Nathaniel Bassy, Dunin Oyekun and Sinach. Their music and ministry have been a profound source of inspiration for me. [Name of Minister]’s dedication to spreading the message of faith through powerful and soulful music has had a significant impact on my own journey. I am particularly inspired by their ability to connect deeply with their audience, using music as a means of uplifting and encouraging others. Their commitment to both their craft and their faith serves as a reminder of the profound impact that gospel music can have in changing lives and touching hearts.

When you’re not ministering to a crowd or in the recording booth, what does Seyi Israel do?
Outside of my music ministry, I work as a construction project manager. This profession keeps me busy with various construction projects, and I find it fulfilling to see tangible results from my efforts. I also dedicate a significant amount of time to my church, as I am deeply committed to supporting and participating in its activities. Spending quality time with family and friends is important to me as well; it helps me stay grounded and balanced. Engaging in these diverse activities enriches my life and allows me to bring a well-rounded perspective to my ministry and personal endeavors.

Your song ‘No More Veil’ is one of the songs that have gone viral. Take us through the process of writing/creating that song.

The creation of “No More Veil” was a truly collaborative effort, and it holds a special place in my heart. The song was co-written with Promise Onyiwe Agbonrimien, also known as Promise Paul, in 2020. Working with Promise was an incredible experience, as we both shared a deep passion for conveying a powerful message through music. The process was marked by a strong sense of inspiration and purpose as we sought to capture the essence of breaking down barriers and drawing closer to God. The success of the song and its impact on listeners is a testament to the power of collaboration and the anointing behind the music.

Your music and ministry have significantly and positively impacted many people over the years. Going forward, what does the future look like for Seyi Israel?

Looking ahead, I am excited about the new opportunities and projects that the future holds. I plan to continue creating music that inspires and uplifts, while also exploring new ways to connect with and support my audience. There are aspirations to collaborate with other artists and engage in more international outreach to spread the message of hope and faith on a broader scale.

Since relocating to the UK in 2022 to be with my wife, the journey has been both fulfilling and full of new opportunities. We’ve continued to make music, and I am excited about the new and exciting prospects ahead. Thanks to the incredible support of Simon Shaw and Victor Tom Ekpenyong, I was able to form a multicultural music band here in the UK. Victor, who leads the band and plays the bass, and Simon, who organizes and produces events across the country, have been instrumental in helping us make an impact. We’ve already had the privilege of performing at several UK music events, and I’m looking forward to many more opportunities to share our music and message with a broader audience. The future holds much promise, and I am eager to see where this journey leads.