Gospel singer Juliana Oluwole shares her journey of faith and music
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Nigerian gospel singer Juliana Oluwole shares her lifelong passion for music and her journey from childhood choir to professional ministry.
- Oluwole overcame challenges, including a lack of initial guidance, by seeking mentorship from Evangelist Olayinmika Baba, who helped produce her first album.
- She emphasizes the importance of faith, patience, and trusting God amidst life's difficulties, drawing inspiration from her own experiences for her music.
Juliana Oluwole, a gospel singer from Edo State, Nigeria, reflects on a lifelong dedication to music that began in her youth and has blossomed into a full-fledged ministry.
I naturally love music; music is my life. It is what I know how to do best.
Oluwole's musical journey started at a very young age within her church's children's choir, where she quickly progressed to leading the group. Her innate love for music was further nurtured by learning to play instruments like the samba and drums while growing up. Music, she states, is not just a passion but her life and what she knows best.
Her path was not without obstacles. Initially, Oluwole lacked guidance in pursuing her musical aspirations. A pivotal moment came in 2014 when Evangelist Olayinmika Baba, a minister who also sings, delivered a sermon that resonated deeply with her. He spoke of the possibility of being both a gospel music minister and a professional teacher. Inspired, Oluwole approached him for mentorship, which he granted. This led to the production of her debut album, 'Alatileyin Mi,' launched in 2015.
During his sermon, he said one could be a gospel music minister and still teach professionally. It felt like the message was directed at me.
Oluwole acknowledges the challenges inherent in the music ministry, noting that not everyone will be a fan. However, she believes that God assigns supportive individuals to appreciate her unique style. She clarifies that she has never truly stepped away from music, even during difficult periods in 2021 and 2022, as music provides her with joy and has been the source of all her achievements.
In the music ministry, you must understand that not everyone will love you, but God will always assign certain people to support and appreciate your style of music.
Currently, Oluwole is working on new music, including a single and an upcoming annual praise concert. Her favorite songs are often those born from difficult times, serving as personal prayers answered by God. These divinely inspired tracks, such as 'Alatileyin Mi,' 'Angeli Ogo,' and 'Iwoloba,' are sung to bless listeners and instill hope. Her advice for overcoming challenges is rooted in faith: know and trust God, remain patient, avoid worldly distractions, and allow divine guidance.
Music is my life and gives me joy. Everything I have achieved today came through music. Even during serious challenges in 2021 and 2022, I held firmly to my calling and continued in music ministry.
Originally published by The Punch in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.