Nathaniel Bassey (born August 27, 1981, in Lagos) is a renowned Nigerian gospel musician, pastor, trumpeter, and songwriter. He’s best known for powerful worship songs like "Imela", "Onise Iyanu", and "Olowogbogboro", and he leads the Hallelujah Challenge, a global online worship movement.
Early Life & Education
- Born to Pastor E. Joshua Bassey of the Apostolic Church in Lagos, hailing originally from Akwa-Ibom State.
- Studied International Relations & Politics at the University of Lagos, later furthering his studies in London.
- Attended Middlesex University Summer School, studying music to deepen his artistry.
- Married to Sarah Bassey since 2013; they have two children.
Musical Career & Ministry Beginnings
- Started as a youth trumpeter, performing with the Steve Rhodes Orchestra and Spectrum 4 jazz quartet.
- His transition to gospel was sparked by composing for Stella Obasanjo’s visit—a moment of spiritual awakening.
- Served for two years as bandleader before fully committing to faith-based music.
Albums & Breakthrough Songs
Nathaniel has released several worship albums, recorded live and in studios:
- Elohim (2008) – breakthrough debut with “Someone’s at the Door”.
- Follow-up albums include:
- The Son of God (2014) – featuring “Imela”.
- This God is Too Good (2016)
- Revival Flames (2017)
- Jesus: The Resurrection & the Life (2018)
- The King is Coming (2019)
- Hallelujah Again (2021)
- Names of God (2022, live)
- Hallelujah Live (2023) – with global guest artists.
Major hits include “Onise Iyanu,” “Olowogbogboro,” and “See What the Lord Has Done”, each accumulating millions of YouTube views.
HallelujahChallenge
In June 2017, Nathaniel launched the #HallelujahChallenge - an online midnight worship movement on Instagram and Facebook. It quickly went viral, drawing over 600,000 participants within a month, and has continued annually.
Pastoral & Mentorship Roles
- Serves as Pastor of The Oasis, the youth church at RCCG King's Court, Victoria Island, Lagos.
- Founded Nathaniel Bassey Worship Academy, training young gospel musicians and worship leaders.
- Leading worship conferences, crusades, and church events across Africa, Europe, USA, and Australia.
Character, Style & Impact
- Known for humility—refusing appearance fees and making music freely available.
- Sings in multiple Nigerian dialects (Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa), bridging cultural barriers.
- Emphasizes spirit, skill, and character in ministry, calling others to prepare holistically.
Awards & Recognition
- Winner: City People Gospel Artist of the Year (2017).
- Nominated for MOBO, Crystal Gospel, and AGMA awards.
- YouTube Gold Play Button for over 1 million subscribers.
- Honored in Albany, New York: “Pastor Nathaniel Bassey Day” for spiritual impact.
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