Complex harmonies, Swing and blue notes, call-and-response vocals, polyrhythms and many more are all characteristics of Jazz music. Born from the African diaspora in New Orleans in the late 19th and 20th centuries, others call it the mixture or union of African and European music. Jazz music broke all the rules as It ditched the rigid “play it as it is written” structure of Western classical music and brought in a whole lot of improvisation. Jazz music is played and listened to by people of different culture, race and ethinicty and different elements of music are incorporated into it. So today we will be looking at a couple of African gospel jazz songs that you will love.

Somore (Kenny K’ore)

If you’ve ever needed a reminder to be grateful, Somore is that gentle nudge. Delivered in a smooth mix of Yoruba and English, this song urges you to worship God wherever you may find yourself.

Listen to song on YouTube 

Let’s give God praise
You wanna give God praise
Atewo ni mo fi a mo bi o ba more
Come on come on come on
Let’s give God praise
Ijo ji jo ni mo fi a mo bi mo ba more
Come on come on come on

Eledumare (Kenny K’ore)

Released in 2013 “Eledumare” is a layered gospel jazz song that blends Yoruba praise, and contemporary African rhythms together. The song is an expression of gratitude, adoration, and unwavering faith in God, portrayed through poetic and praise-filled melodies. It captures the depth of God’s greatness celebrating His glory, mercy, and unmatchable power. The use of improvisation, call-and-response patterns, and emotive vocal delivery gives the song a dynamic and personal feel.

Listen to song on YouTube

Somebody dey wey go brighten up my day
He go take away my sins and my shame
I don see your face
E dey shine of Love and Grace
Oh my Lord today
You don do me something Great

Baba Ye (Sammie Okposo ft Mike Aremu)

Released in 2006, “Baba Ye” is a gospel jazz track that beautifully blends contemporary worship with smooth jazz instrumentation. Featuring renowned saxophonist Mike Aremu, the song is a heartfelt call for God’s Kingdom to come not just to the world at large, but personally in the lives of listeners. With both English and Yoruba lyrics, Baba Ye is a song that expresses deep reverence for God.

Listen to song here 

Baba wa ti nbe Lo orun
Owo ni foruko re
ki ijoba re de
Ife re ni kase eeeee ooooo
Bi mo ti nse oooooooo
Baba ye, jeki joba re de oooo
baba baba baba agba

Instrumental Jazz

You know how some songs feature a saxophonist who takes the spotlight? In these performances, it often feels like there’s no lead singer because the saxophone ends up doing all the talking. That’s definitely the case with Mike Aremu, who shines in the world of instrumental jazz. He’s not the only one, though; Pastor Kunle Ajayi is another great example. Check out some of his tracks like “Lord, I Lift Your Name on High Jazz Medley” and “You Are Yahweh” by Mike Aremu.