In the dynamic landscape of the Afro-gospel industry, where trends come and go, a few shining stars manage to remain relevant through the years. One such luminary is the Nigerian gospel singer and music producer, Michael Olayinka Abdul, affectionately known as Mike Abdul.
With an impressive repertoire of achievements and an unwavering commitment to his craft, Abdul has not only sustained his position but has also contributed significantly to shaping the genre of AfroGospel.
Born on February 12, 1977, in Lagos, Mike Abdul’s journey in music began on November 8, 2001, when he co-founded Midnight Crew, a group that would later become a pivotal force in the Nigerian gospel music scene. However, it was after the release of his albums “Good 2 Go,” “Korede,” and “Grateful” that his individual prowess truly came to the forefront. One striking facet of Mike Abdul’s journey is his versatility. A prolific songwriter, music director, skilled singer, and multi-instrumentalist, he embodies the essence of a complete artist. His gospel hits such as “Korede,” “Morire,” “Eyan Jesu,” and “30 Billion Halleluyah” have not only captivated hearts but have also garnered massive streams and downloads on various platforms.
A defining moment in Mike Abdul’s career was when he founded Spaghetti Records, a label that would become a haven for creative expression and a hub for fostering talents. As an executive officer at Midnight Crew Music Limited, he brought his vision to life, working with fellow gospel luminaries like MoniQue and Tim Godfrey. His collaborations extended beyond gospel circles, further cementing his influence. One of the remarkable ways Mike Abdul has stayed relevant is his ability to evolve with the times. As Afrobeat and Afropop have woven their way into gospel music, Abdul has stood at the forefront of this transformation, giving rise to the genre now known as AfroGospel.
His fusion of gospel themes with vibrant beats, catchy rhythms, and infectious melodies has created a sub-genre that resonates with a diverse audience. A standout point in Abdul’s recent journey has been his foray into the world of Amapiano vibes. While not exclusively an Amapiano artist, Abdul has successfully infused this trend into his music, demonstrating his adaptability and willingness to embrace new sounds. Incorporating Amapiano elements into tracks like “Keep it to myself” ft Nosa, Veeki Royce ft Mike Abdul on “Son of God,” and “Comot Body” by Sammie Okposo ft Mike Abdul and Bidemi Olaoba attracted a younger demographic while retaining his core audience.
Watch ‘Comot Body’ on YouTube
Behind the curtain of Mike Abdul’s longevity lies his greatest weapon – consistency. The music industry’s ebbs and flows have not deterred him; instead, they have fueled his resolve to continually redefine the Gospel music narrative. His commitment to producing music that speaks to the heart while resonating with contemporary tastes has been a key factor in his unwavering relevance.
Watch ‘Keep It to Myself’ ft Nosa on Youtube
Mike Abdul’s ability to stay relevant in today’s Afro gospel industry is a combination of his unyielding consistency, versatile talent, and willingness to embrace new trends like the Amapiano wave. As he continues to craft soul-stirring melodies and inspire hearts with his music, Mike Abdul’s legacy as a pioneer in AfroGospel remains firmly intact.
