Nathaniel Bassey is one of the most popular and influential gospel musicians in Nigeria and beyond. He is known for his songs "Imela", "Onise Iyanu", and "Olowogbogboro", as well as his social media worship movement, the HallelujahChallenge. In this blog post, we will explore his life, career, and achievements.
Early Life and Education
Nathaniel Bassey was born on August 27, 1981, in Lagos, Nigeria. He is from Ikot Ofon Ikono, Uyo local government area in Akwa-Ibom state, south-south Nigeria. His father, Mr. E. Joshua Bassey, was a minister in the Apostolic Church Bashua Assembly. Nathaniel grew up in a devout Christian home and developed a passion for music from a young age.
He attended the University of Lagos, where he studied international relations and politics. However, he later moved to London to study politics at the University of London. He also enrolled in the Middlesex University Summer School, where he studied popular music and music business. He was inspired by the likes of Dr. Panam Percy Paul, a legendary Nigerian gospel artist.
Music Career
Nathaniel started his musical career as a secular musician, playing the trumpet for various jazz bands and clubs. He joined the Rhodes Orchestra, where he played the trumpet for two years. He also performed at the visit of Stella Obasanjo, the late wife of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, where he composed a song for her.
However, Nathaniel had a divine encounter that changed his life and musical direction. He decided to dedicate his talent to God and use his music to spread the gospel. He joined the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), where he became the music director of one of the parishes. He also became the pastor of The Oasis, the youth church of RCCG Kings Court in Victoria Island, Lagos.
Nathaniel released his debut album, Elohim, in 2008. The album was recorded and mixed in Cape Town, South Africa, and featured the hit track, "Someone's knocking at the door". The album was well-received and established Nathaniel as a gospel music star. He followed up with other albums, such as The Son of God, Revival Flames, and Jesus: The Resurrection and the Life. Some of his popular songs include "Imela", "Onise Iyanu", "Olowogbogboro", "Alagbada Ina", "Hallelujah Eh", and "You are God".
Nathaniel has also collaborated with other gospel artists, such as Sinach, Frank Edwards, Chioma Jesus, Eben, and Victoria Orenze. He has performed at various local and international events, such as The Experience, Africa's largest gospel concert. He has also won several awards and recognitions, such as the City People Award for Gospel Artist of the Year in 2017.
#HallelujahChallenge
One of Nathaniel's most notable achievements is the HallelujahChallenge, a social media praise, worship, and prayer movement that he started in June 2017. The challenge involves Nathaniel and other believers worshipping God for an hour, from 12:00 am to 1:00 am, every day for a month. He streams the event live on his Instagram page and invites others to join him.
The HallelujahChallenge quickly went viral and attracted thousands of participants from different parts of the world. The challenge also drew the attention of celebrities, such as Don Jazzy, Funke Akindele, D'banj, and Tiwa Savage, who joined the online worship session. The challenge has been described as a revival and a spiritual awakening for many people who have testified of God's miracles, healing, and breakthroughs in their lives.
Nathaniel has continued the HallelujahChallenge every year since 2017, with different themes and focuses. He has also released songs inspired by the challenge, such as "Olowogbogboro" and "Hallelujah Challenge Praise Medley".
How can I join the #HallelujahChallenge?
The #HallelujahChallenge is an online praise and worship program led by Nathaniel Bassey. It is held daily for an hour, from 12:00 am to 1:00 am, during designated periods every year. To join the challenge, you can follow these steps:
Follow Nathaniel Bassey on Instagram @nathanielblow.
Visit his page and click on his profile picture to connect when he is live at 12:00 am.
Alternatively, you can visit the official website of the challenge here for more details and updates.
You can also watch the live stream of the challenge on YouTube or Facebook.
Join the thousands of participants who praise God and pray for their needs and desires.
Share your testimonies and experiences with others using the hashtag #HallelujahChallenge.
I hope this helps you join the #HallelujahChallenge and experience God’s power and presence in your life.
Personal Life
Nathaniel is happily married to Sarah Bassey, a beautiful and supportive woman who shares his vision and ministry. They got married in 2013 and have two children, a son and a daughter. Nathaniel and his family live in Lagos, Nigeria, where they continue to serve God and impact lives through their music and message.
What Are Some Of Nathaniel Bassey's Awards?
Nathaniel Bassey is a renowned gospel musician who has won several awards and recognitions for his music and ministry. Some of his awards are:
Gospel Artiste of the Year at the City People Music Awards in 2017
Best Gospel Artist at the Africa Muzik Magazine Awards & Music Festival Awards (AFRIMMA) in 2017
Album of Excellence for Jesus: The Resurrection and the Life at the African Gospel Music Awards (AGMMA) in 2019
Artiste Of the Year nominee at the Crystal Gospel Awards in 2019
He has also been featured in various local and international events, such as The Experience, Africa’s largest gospel concert. He is a blessing to many people who have been touched by his songs and message.
What Is Nathaniel Bassey's Net Worth?
According to some sources, Nathaniel Bassey’s net worth is estimated to be around $500,000 or $1,000,000, making him one of the richest gospel musicians in Nigeria. However, these figures are not verified and may not reflect his actual income or assets.
Controversy And Activism Of Nathaniel Bassey
Nathaniel Bassey has also faced some controversy and criticism from some quarters for his views and actions on certain issues. Here are some examples:
In 2017, he was involved in a dispute with popular OAP, Daddy Freeze, who criticized him for praying for a woman whose husband deserted her eight years ago to return. Daddy Freeze argued that this was not in line with the biblical teachings on divorce and remarriage. Nathaniel Bassey responded by saying that he was following the leading of the Holy Spirit and that God could restore any broken marriage
In 2018, he was accused of plagiarism by a South African gospel artist, Mzwakhe Mbuli, who claimed that Nathaniel Bassey’s song “Onise Iyanu” was a copy of his song “God the Best”. Mbuli demanded an apology and compensation from Nathaniel Bassey, who denied the allegation and said that his song was original and inspired by God
In 2019, he was criticized by some Nigerians for supporting the reelection bid of President Muhammadu Buhari, who was widely seen as a failure and a dictator. Nathaniel Bassey said that he was not endorsing any political party, but rather praying for God’s will to be done in the country. He also urged Christians to vote according to their conscience and not be swayed by propaganda
In 2020, he was praised by many Nigerians for joining the #EndSARS protests, which demanded an end to police brutality and bad governance in the country. Nathaniel Bassey said that he was moved by the plight of the youth and the injustice in the society. He also used his music and social media platforms to raise awareness and mobilize support for the cause.
Nathaniel Bassey is a man of faith and conviction, who has used his music and influence to make a positive impact in the world. He is also a man of controversy and activism, who has faced challenges and opposition for his views and actions. He is a role model and a mentor to many young and upcoming gospel artists. He is a blessing to the body of Christ and the world at large.
Conclusion
Nathaniel Bassey is a gospel music icon who has used his gift to glorify God and bless humanity. He is a man of faith, passion, and purpose, who has inspired many people to worship God and seek His face. He is a role model and a mentor to many young and upcoming gospel artists. He is a blessing to the body of Christ and the world at large.
