In 2018, Mercy Chinwo penned what would become one of Nigeria’s most beloved gospel anthems; “Excess Love.” Surprisingly, the song nearly never saw the light of day. In a candid Instagram reel, Chinwo confessed that she almost deleted the track, convinced it lacked the strength to resonate. Yet, after trusting the process, “Excess Love” went on to earn national and international acclaim, claiming awards, inspiring viral covers, and filling stadiums across Africa and beyond.
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The Genesis and Near Discard
Mercy Chinwo first sketched the lyrics to “Excess Love” in early 2018, drawing on personal encounters with God’s overwhelming grace. According to GospelFromFriends, a longtime family friend sent her the initial melody, which Chinwo adapted into Igbo and English verses late one night. Despite its heartfelt simplicity, Chinwo later revealed in an Instagram reel that she nearly deleted the song from her phone, doubting its potential. It was only after encouragement from her producer, Dr. Roy, and her record label, EeZee Conceptz, that she agreed to record it.
Chinwo officially released “Excess Love” in 2018, and the accompanying music video quickly amassed millions of views, propelled by its raw worship atmosphere and Chinwo’s impassioned vocals. The ease with which the chorus; “Jesus, you love me too much, too much, too much; excess love”; hooked listeners belied the song’s tumultuous birth, underscoring how divine inspiration often emerges through moments of vulnerability.
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Rise to Prominence and Impact
After its release, “Excess Love” dominated streaming platforms and radio airwaves across Nigeria and the diaspora. The song clinched Africa Gospel Song of the Year at AGAFEST 2019 and was honored at the 2019 AFRIMMA Awards, cementing Chinwo’s status as a leading gospel voice. Its official video on YouTube has surpassed 30 million views, making it one of the fastest-growing Nigerian gospel videos of its time.
The song’s global reach expanded further when American gospel artist J.J. Hairston teamed up with Chinwo for an official remix in 2019, introducing “Excess Love” to new audiences in the U.S. and Europe. Chinwo’s own Grand Excess Love concert tour saw sell-out performances, including a landmark stadium show in Lomé, Togo, where thousands worshipped to the anthem live.
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Fans and critics alike note the song’s unique ability to bridge cultural chasms. Blogger OdetoAteen described “Excess Love” as “the irreplaceable backdrop to my mental homecoming,” highlighting its power to evoke nostalgia and spiritual renewal, especially among Nigerians in the diaspora. Furthermore, Premier Gospel lauded Chinwo’s collaboration with Hairston as one of “our favourite African-American collaborations,” demonstrating the song’s versatility across musical traditions.
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Conclusion
What began as a near-forgotten melody on a smartphone evolved into a gospel phenomenon that crossed continents, languages, and denominations. Mercy Chinwo’s willingness to push past initial doubts (and her decision not to discard the song) reminds creators that perseverance and faith can turn tentative beginnings into enduring legacies. “Excess Love” stands today not just as a song, but as a testament to God’s limitless compassion and the unexpected paths through which true art finds its audience.
