THE FIERY GOSPELS OF LIMOBLAZE

 

For many fans of Nigerian Christian gospel music, the name Limoblaze is undoubtedly familiar. Born Samuel Onwubiko, the award-winning artist has accumulated over 30 million streams, cultivated a global fanbase, and played a key role in bringing the Nigerian Christian gospel scene to international recognition.

His 2022 hit single "Jireh," featuring Grammy-winning American rapper Lecrae and English singer Happi, earned him a spot on three Billboard charts, including the US Afrobeats Songs of 2022, alongside a UK MOBO award and a nomination at the Headies. Since then, the 28-year-old artist has kept his followers engaged with a series of singles leading up to his latest album, *Young and Chosen*. This 14-track release marks his seventh studio album in just eight years.

Young and Chosen  features a variety of global Christian gospel artists, including Joe L Barnes, Sam Rivera, and Annatoria, among others. The album blends hip hop, R&B, emo-pop, and soft-funk, showcasing Limoblaze’s signature sound and vocal style.

Limoblaze’s musical journey began in his childhood church in Makurdi, where he developed his singing talent while drawing inspiration from artists such as 2Pac, Eminem, 50 Cent, Cece Winans, and Frank Edwards. Known for his collaborative spirit, he has worked with a range of well-known voices, including Travis Greene, D.A. Truth, Ada Ehi, Gaise Baba, Johnny Drille, and Banky W, all while delivering heartfelt lyrics and smooth vocals.

Combining soul-stirring melodies with infectious rhythms, Limoblaze is pushing the boundaries of Christian pop, reaching new and diverse audiences. In this week’s Guardian Music, he takes us through his creative journey with Young and Chosen, sharing his experiences of working with secular artists, his views on the Tems BET controversy, and his mission to inspire hope through his music.

Congratulations, Limoblaze, on your new album, Young and Chosen. How did the idea for this record come about?

The idea for the album started about a year ago while I was on tour. I was at a point in my career where it felt like I had been chosen to lead a generation. So, I wanted to create music that would serve as the soundtrack to the lives of those I’ve been called to lead.

What’s the central message of the album?

This album is meant to be a soundtrack for the lives of the "young and chosen." I want people who listen to feel seen and recognized. I want them to relate to the music and walk away with the sense that there’s a greater purpose and calling on their lives.

How did you refine your musical influences over time?

Music has always been a huge part of my life. Growing up, we always had music playing in the house. My early influences included Cece Winans, The Winans brothers, Michael Jackson, and the hymns played at home. I was also exposed to rap, with artists like 50 Cent, Eminem, and Tupac shaping my childhood. As I got older, I became drawn to Christian rap and exclusively listened to that.

Who were the artists you admired growing up?

I’ve always looked up to artists like Ada Ehi, Pastor Nathaniel Bassey, and Frank Edwards. More recently, I’ve become a fan of Dunsin Oyekan. I also really appreciate the work of my friends in the industry, such as Marizu, Greatman Takit, Nnoli, Amos, and others.

What’s your creative process like?

When working on an album, I approach it differently than just creating individual songs. I always have a mental picture of what I want the whole project to sound like, which influences the creation of sounds and themes for cohesiveness. For me, I typically start by writing melodies before the lyrics, because I believe melody speaks a universal language that transcends words.

Do you ever create music spontaneously?

There are definitely moments when an idea hits me, and I can’t wait to dive into it. But sometimes, an idea will sit with me for a while before it becomes a song. Occasionally, when an idea is really strong, I’ll jump straight into the creative process without delay.

What have been your most memorable creative sessions for this album?

One memorable session was for the song “Rest.” I wrote it entirely in my head, without any instrumental or chord progression, which is something I haven’t done in a long time. Another standout session was for “Blesser,” which started as a reggae song and unexpectedly evolved into a drill track.

Your music blends various genres. Do you encourage other gospel artists to experiment with fusion?

I wouldn’t necessarily say I encourage other gospel musicians to experiment with fusion. It’s really about finding your own sound. For me, fusion is where I excel and where my creativity shines. But every artist should discover what works for them—whether that’s a fusion of styles or something entirely new.

Do you have any reservations about working with secular musicians?

I’ve worked with secular artists like Johnny Drille and Banky W. They are real-life friends, and I know their character. While they’re not classified as Christian musicians, they love Jesus. It’s not about a right or wrong conversation—it’s about understanding the "why" behind the collaboration. If the reason aligns with something honorable and God-glorifying, then I’m all for it.

What’s your take on awards, especially after the controversy surrounding Tems’ BET win?

First of all, Tems is an amazing artist. I think the uproar over her win was unnecessary; the time to question would have been at the nomination stage. Awards are about submissions, and if she was nominated and won, it’s not for me to question. Her fan base is huge, and that’s what matters. Personally, I’m grateful for the recognition I’ve received, but I don’t place too much importance on awards.

What do you enjoy doing when you're not making music?

 

When I’m not making music, I love playing FIFA, acting, and exploring business opportunities. I’m also passionate about fitness and enjoy working out.

What are your thoughts on developing talent in the gospel music scene?

In Nigeria, the church is still the best place for nurturing musical talent. However, there isn’t yet a well-established system or industry for gospel music here. There are cliques, but no unified structure. Each generation needs to do a better job of supporting the next.

What’s next for you?

I’m getting ready to go on the *Young and Chosen* tour, starting in Africa, then moving on to Europe and the US. After that, I’ll be releasing the deluxe version of the album.

What’s your vision for Limoblaze?

As I grow older, I just want to go as far as God will take me. I don’t want to set lofty expectations—I’d rather follow wherever God leads me. For many fans of Nigerian Christian gospel music, the name Limoblaze is undoubtedly familiar. Born Samuel Onwubiko, the award-winning artist has accumulated over 30 million streams, cultivated a global fanbase, and played a key role in bringing the Nigerian Christian gospel scene to international recognition.

His 2022 hit single "Jireh," featuring Grammy-winning American rapper Lecrae and English singer Happi, earned him a spot on three Billboard charts, including the US Afrobeats Songs of 2022, alongside a UK MOBO award and a nomination at the Headies. Since then, the 28-year-old artist has kept his followers engaged with a series of singles leading up to his latest album, *Young and Chosen*. This 14-track release marks his seventh studio album in just eight years.

Young and Chosen  features a variety of global Christian gospel artists, including Joe L Barnes, Sam Rivera, and Annatoria, among others. The album blends hip hop, R&B, emo-pop, and soft-funk, showcasing Limoblaze’s signature sound and vocal style.

Limoblaze’s musical journey began in his childhood church in Makurdi, where he developed his singing talent while drawing inspiration from artists such as 2Pac, Eminem, 50 Cent, Cece Winans, and Frank Edwards. Known for his collaborative spirit, he has worked with a range of well-known voices, including Travis Greene, D.A. Truth, Ada Ehi, Gaise Baba, Johnny Drille, and Banky W, all while delivering heartfelt lyrics and smooth vocals.

Combining soul-stirring melodies with infectious rhythms, Limoblaze is pushing the boundaries of Christian pop, reaching new and diverse audiences. In this week’s Guardian Music, he takes us through his creative journey with *Young and Chosen*, sharing his experiences of working with secular artists, his views on the Tems BET controversy, and his mission to inspire hope through his music.

Congratulations, Limoblaze, on your new album, Young and Chosen. How did the idea for this record come about?

The idea for the album started about a year ago while I was on tour. I was at a point in my career where it felt like I had been chosen to lead a generation. So, I wanted to create music that would serve as the soundtrack to the lives of those I’ve been called to lead.

What’s the central message of the album?

This album is meant to be a soundtrack for the lives of the "young and chosen." I want people who listen to feel seen and recognized. I want them to relate to the music and walk away with the sense that there’s a greater purpose and calling on their lives.

How did you refine your musical influences over time?

Music has always been a huge part of my life. Growing up, we always had music playing in the house. My early influences included Cece Winans, The Winans brothers, Michael Jackson, and the hymns played at home. I was also exposed to rap, with artists like 50 Cent, Eminem, and Tupac shaping my childhood. As I got older, I became drawn to Christian rap and exclusively listened to that.

Who were the artists you admired growing up?

I’ve always looked up to artists like Ada Ehi, Pastor Nathaniel Bassey, and Frank Edwards. More recently, I’ve become a fan of Dunsin Oyekan. I also really appreciate the work of my friends in the industry, such as Marizu, Greatman Takit, Nnoli, Amos, and others.

What’s your creative process like?

When working on an album, I approach it differently than just creating individual songs. I always have a mental picture of what I want the whole project to sound like, which influences the creation of sounds and themes for cohesiveness. For me, I typically start by writing melodies before the lyrics, because I believe melody speaks a universal language that transcends words.

Do you ever create music spontaneously?

There are definitely moments when an idea hits me, and I can’t wait to dive into it. But sometimes, an idea will sit with me for a while before it becomes a song. Occasionally, when an idea is really strong, I’ll jump straight into the creative process without delay.

 

What have been your most memorable creative sessions for this album?

One memorable session was for the song “Rest.” I wrote it entirely in my head, without any instrumental or chord progression, which is something I haven’t done in a long time. Another standout session was for “Blesser,” which started as a reggae song and unexpectedly evolved into a drill track

Your music blends various genres. Do you encourage other gospel artists to experiment with fusion?

I wouldn’t necessarily say I encourage other gospel musicians to experiment with fusion. It’s really about finding your own sound. For me, fusion is where I excel and where my creativity shines. But every artist should discover what works for them—whether that’s a fusion of styles or something entirely new.

Do you have any reservations about working with secular musicians?

I’ve worked with secular artists like Johnny Drille and Banky W. They are real-life friends, and I know their character. While they’re not classified as Christian musicians, they love Jesus. It’s not about a right or wrong conversation—it’s about understanding the "why" behind the collaboration. If the reason aligns with something honorable and God-glorifying, then I’m all for it.

What’s your take on awards, especially after the controversy surrounding Tems’ BET win?

First of all, Tems is an amazing artist. I think the uproar over her win was unnecessary; the time to question would have been at the nomination stage. Awards are about submissions, and if she was nominated and won, it’s not for me to question. Her fan base is huge, and that’s what matters. Personally, I’m grateful for the recognition I’ve received, but I don’t place too much importance on awards.

What do you enjoy doing when you're not making music?

When I’m not making music, I love playing FIFA, acting, and exploring business opportunities. I’m also passionate about fitness and enjoy working out.

What are your thoughts on developing talent in the gospel music scene?

In Nigeria, the church is still the best place for nurturing musical talent. However, there isn’t yet a well-established system or industry for gospel music here. There are cliques, but no unified structure. Each generation needs to do a better job of supporting the next.

What’s next for you?

I’m getting ready to go on the *Young and Chosen* tour, starting in Africa, then moving on to Europe and the US. After that, I’ll be releasing the deluxe version of the album.

What’s your vision for Limoblaze?

As I grow older, I just want to go as far as God will take me. I don’t want to set lofty expectations—I’d rather follow wherever God leads me.