Everyone is familiar with gospel singer Eben, but how many of us know his wife, Jahdiel? Her name means “God gives joy,” and she is also a singer who has been releasing music since 2006. If you weren’t aware of this, sit back and relax as we explore her story.
Grace Jahdiel Benjamin, popularly known by her stage name Jahdiel, is one of Nigeria’s most beloved gospel artists. She was born and raised in Ikoyi, Lagos, where she had her primary and secondary education.
Jahdiel went on to get a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry, a path not commonly associated with music. However her passion for music had been growing since she was only five years old, when she was singing in the church choir. By the time she turned thirteen, she was already playing around with instruments like the piano and keyboard laying a foundation for a future or career in music.
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In 2006, she officially kicked off her music career, and by 2008, she dropped her first album, Heritage. The album received a warm reception, and showcased her unique blend of English pop, rock, and African rhythms. This style caught the attention of many listeners and industry insiders.
In 2008, Jahdiel was nominated for the “Most Promising Artist or Group” at the Kora Awards, which is a notable recognition in African music. She followed up with her second album Under Oath in 2010. This project featured standout tracks like “Ebube Dike“, “Oh God”, and “Ayaya”. The album did really well and became favourites on radio stations across the country. The album earned her a nomination at the 2013 Nigeria Gospel Music Awards. Then in November 2015, she dropped her third album, Majesty.
Watch Ebubedike here
Jahdiel’s music is a combination of different styles of music (gospel, pop & traditional African beats). Speaking to The Nation in an interview about her style of music she said:
“I think the blend of English pop with African music makes it very, very different. If you listen to it for the first time, you might feel it’s not from Nigeria.”
Her musical influences include iconic artists like Kirk Franklin and Celine Dion, whose styles have really shaped her own. Jahdiel’s way of making music makes her music super appealing to a wide range of listeners, both in Nigeria and all around the world.
On November 30, 2013, Jahdiel married fellow gospel artist Emmanuel Benjamin, popularly known as Eben. Both artists are signed to Loveworld Records (Christ Embassy), and together they run Hammer House Records. The couple is blessed with two children and have become one of gospel music’s admired duos in Nigeria. In 2017, Jahdiel was named among YNaija’s “100 Most Influential People in Christian Ministry in Nigeria.” While it’s been a while since she released new music, we remain hopeful that she’ll bless us with something fresh in the days to come. And when that moment comes, you can count on us to keep you updated.
May this season bring new light, a fresh start, and songs of praise that never fade.
