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Nigerian gospel music has long been a vibrant expression of faith, resilience, and creativity, often emerging from unexpected circumstances. One remarkable story is how a power outage, a common occurrence in Nigeria, birthed a hit worship song that resonated globally. This article explores the creation of “Imela” by Nathaniel Bassey, a song conceived during a blackout in Lagos, tracing its origins, the role of adversity in its development, and its subsequent rise to prominence. Drawing from credible sources, this narrative showcases the intersection of everyday challenges and artistic triumph in Nigeria’s gospel scene.

The Genesis During a Blackout

The story of “Imela” begins in 2013, amidst Lagos’s erratic power supply, a persistent issue documented by AP News, which notes Nigeria’s average electricity supply often falls below 4,000 megawatts for its vast population. Nathaniel Bassey, a renowned Nigerian gospel artist, found himself in a recording studio when a blackout struck. As reported by Pulse Nigeria, rather than halting the session, Bassey seized the moment, picking up his trumpet and spontaneously composing the melody for “Imela,” meaning “thank you” in Igbo. This improvisation, born from necessity, blended his signature trumpet sound with heartfelt lyrics of gratitude. Scholarly work by Oikelome in the Journal of Musical Arts in Africa emphasizes how such spontaneity is rooted in Nigeria’s oral music traditions, where improvisation thrives under constraint. The blackout, far from being a hindrance, became the catalyst for a song that would define Bassey’s career.

Adversity as Creative Fuel

Nigeria’s power outages, a socio-economic challenge, have inadvertently shaped its cultural output, including gospel music. THISDAYLIVE highlights how artists like Bassey channel adversity into expressions of faith, a trait evident in “Imela’s” lyrics praising God despite circumstances. During the blackout, Bassey collaborated with singer Enitan Adaba, whose vocals added depth to the track. A blog post on GospelHotspot.Net recounts how the duo worked by candlelight, their resolve undeterred, reflecting a broader Nigerian resilience. This aligns with findings in The Nation, which notes that gospel music often emerges as a response to hardship, offering hope and transcendence. “Imela” thus transformed a moment of darkness into a luminous anthem, illustrating how limitations can inspire innovation.

A Hit Song’s Global Resonance

Released in 2014, “Imela” quickly transcended its humble origins, becoming a staple in worship services worldwide. Guardian Nigeria reports its widespread adoption in churches across Africa and the diaspora, cementing Bassey’s status as a global gospel figure. The song’s success is partly attributed to its relatable backstory, amplified through social media platforms like X, where fans praised its authenticity. According to Music in Africa, its fusion of Afrocentric rhythms and universal themes of gratitude propelled it onto international charts, highlighting Nigerian gospel’s growing influence. “Imela’s” journey from a powerless studio to a global hit underscores the power of creativity to turn adversity into triumph.

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Conclusion

The creation of “Imela” during a power outage exemplifies how Nigerian gospel artists transform challenges into opportunities for worship and inspiration. From its spontaneous inception to its global acclaim, the song reflects resilience, faith, and the indomitable spirit of Nigeria’s music scene. Nathaniel Bassey’s experience reveals that even in darkness, a single note can spark a movement, illuminating lives far beyond its origin.

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This article was first published on 20th March 2025
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preciousgift-nwaeze

Preciousgift is an exceptionally gifted Nigerian writer with a robust theological background and an unwavering passion for gospel music. Alongside crafting uplifting gospel content, he demonstrates expertise in writing about education, communication, and technology, showcasing his remarkable versatility across various subjects.