Afrogospel has expanded beyond its traditional roots in cities like Lagos, Accra, and Johannesburg, making its mark across Europe and North America. This global reach is driven by a new generation of African gospel artists who are passionate about sharing the sound of afrogospel with the world, including artists like Limoblaze.
Samuel Onwubiko, known professionally as Limoblaze, is a Nigerian gospel artist who has made a significant impact by merging afrobeat rhythms with gospel-centered lyrics. His collaborations with international artists such as Da’ T.R.U.T.H. and Travis Greene could be said to have also been pivotal in bridging the gap between afrogospel and other genres. Tracks like “Sound of Victory” and “My Story” exemplify how afrogospel can coexist with American Christian hip-hop and contemporary worship, all while maintaining its distinct african essence.
In 2022, Limoblaze was featured on the Afrobeat remix of Maverick City Music’s “Jireh,” by Lecrae and Hulvey. This collaboration quickly became a viral sensation, charting on the U.S. Billboard and accumulating millions of streams globally. While some might attribute his success to luck, it is evident that Limoblaze’s achievements came from more than just luck. He adeptly leverages strategic partnerships, high-quality production, and intentional branding to elevate afrogospel into the mainstream. By collaborating with prominent labels like Reach Records, which is home to Lecrae and other influential figures in Christian hip-hop, Limoblaze ensures that afrogospel is included in important conversations within the broader Christian music landscape.
Limoblaze has really helped bring afrogospel music into the spotlight with his live shows. His concert, “Sunday in London,” at the O2 Academy Islington was a huge deal, selling out and bringing together a mix of afrogospel fans, christians from all sorts of cultures, and new folks curious about the music. Riding on that wave of success, he has gone to host even bigger concerts like the “Young & Chosen” concert at the O2 Forum Kentish Town. This clearly shows that there’s a growing interest in afrogospel among diaspora crowds and proves that African gospel artists can draw in big audiences overseas.
At The Experience Lagos 2024, sharing the stage with big names like Lecrae and Nathaniel Bassey, he brought an incredible vibe to the event that put afrogospel on the global map, alongside artists like Prinx Emmanuel. Since The Experience is one of the biggest gospel music events out there reaching millions online Limoblaze’s performance alongside other afrogospel artists as well gave afrogospel some serious exposure.
Watch his Perfomance at The Experience ’19
Plus, he knows how to use social media like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube to connect with audiences around the world. So we can say that he is not just making music but he is also building a global community around afrogospel. Limoblaze’s journey is an example of how African gospel artists are taking afrogospel to the world. By teaming up with others, and using digital tools, he’s paving the way for a new wave of musicians. As afrogospel keeps gaining popularity globally, it’s obvious that the sound of African praise has found its place on the world stage, and Limoblaze alongside other afrogospel artists are at the forefront of it all.
