By Vera Wisdom-Bassey
Renowned gospel singer, Hope Davies, whose career spans over a decade both in Nigeria and the United States, has recalled how the music industry has evolved over the years, greatly influenced by social media.
The Atlanta, US-based musician, who was in Nigeria for the Aity Dennis 60th birthday celebration held in Lagos recently, admitted: “The two different dispensations all have been great.”
Speaking on her musical journey, Hope stated, “My years on stage have taught me a lot about how to reach diverse culture and people. Today, the nervousness of not being able to produce music that is up to international standard, as well as lack of funds are no longer there, it has become a thing of the past. The Lord has been good in exposing me internationally too. So, I am grateful.”
The gospel artist called on up and coming artists to be focused and never allow anyone to define who they are, but let the word of God define them.
Hope and her husband are pastoring the Jubilee Christian Church in the United States. Though, with many songs to her name, she vows to continue producing and releasing songs, adding that she will continue to sing until she is no more.
Commending Nigerian artists, Hope Davies said they have done well for themselves, with good songwriters, producers and instrumentalists among others.
On gospel music
Nigerian gospel music is doing very well. It is not like when we started; we were pioneers. I did my first gospel tour in 1988 to Canada and 1989 to America. My solo career started later. But today, the social media has taken our music far. I heard they were singing in my language in the Philippines. I never believed that our songs have gone that far.
Things I could have done differently
I could have promoted my music more. This generation of musicians has done well with the ‘push yourself’ attitude. In our time, we would wait until the record company picks us, which kind of slow things down. But now, there is more awareness about promotion, the ‘push yourself” attitude. That’s what we should have done.
Advice to Nigerian gospel artists
Just keep pushing, do more. We need to fine tune some of our music and take them to another level.
Secrets of my youthful look
I am trying my best in terms of eating well, exercising. When you reach this stage actually, the body metabolism changes, so you have to slow down.
Albums produced in the US
I have produced many albums – like six or seven. Actually, I’ve stopped releasing albums. I now do singles, singles, and singles. I produced a lot of songs that I didn’t promote; I am going to bring them back now and promote them.
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