Missionary Kelechi Dike was a musician who brought gospel music abroad. In this interview with SEYI SOKOYA, he talks about his stay in Gospel music ministry and more.
We all know that Israel is the homeland of God’s people. Does this mean that you, as a gospel musician, are God’s elect in the end times?
All I can say is that my calling to evangelism is sacred. By the grace of God, I have been chosen to be a vessel for the end times and I thank God for His grace because it has been a wonderful experience to preach and evangelize through my gift. I thank God for making this journey smooth and inspiring. I would say that serving God is sweet and being a true servant is very rewarding.
Can you tell us what brought you to Israel?
What really brought me to Israel was missionary work. I never imagined that this mission would expand to what it is today. When I started my missionary work, I never knew God had bigger plans for me. So, here I am today. All I can say is glory to God.
What message and style do you bring to the gospel music industry?
My unique message is salvation for all and my musical style is one of deep praise and worship. This is the core responsibility of any true servant of God. The spread of the gospel brings salvation, and the only food God eats is praise and worship, through which life is liberated and people live more fully.
How did you discover your passion for gospel music?
I discovered my passion for music at a very young age. I vividly remember when I was at ACM I was always singing with the other kids. This is how I started before I was an adult. I started getting more interested in gospel music until I became one of the choir leaders at God’s Redeemed Christian Church in Tel Aviv, Israel, where I always sang at every Sabbath service, which is the regular Sunday service in Israel.
When did you start professionally?
I started working professionally in 2020. This prompted me to release my first album in 2021 titled “My life is real now”. What’s more, my new album “We are Strangers” has gained attention on social media, especially on YouTube.
Why Gospel Music? How’s your experience so far?
The main reason I choose gospel music is to evangelize the world through deeply praising and worshiping our God. If you’ve listened to most of the songs I’ve released so far, you know that I’m always telling people about Christ and the need to make Him your Lord and Savior as the Bible requires.
What challenges have you faced so far in promoting your brand?
I face many challenges when trying to promote my music. Thoughts of how to start, who will plan my career and market my songs have been on my mind, but I trust in God that everything will work out for me. God has been in control, even more than I could have imagined. Throughout my music career, people have been praying for me and encouraging me. The support I’ve had from loved ones so far has been fantastic.
How much of your work is your credit?
I have five works to my credit, and thanks to God’s special grace, songs are still being written. I want my fans to pay attention!
The competition among gospel musicians is fierce, how do you plan to break in?
There is no competition with God. We are all responding to the Father’s call based on His gifts in us. Having said that, with God on my side and striving for excellence every day in my music career, I believe the sky is just the beginning.
Who is your role model in the gospel music industry?
My role model in the music industry is the famous gospel singer Cornelius Benjamin. I am always inspired by his songs and in-depth service.
What else do you do besides gospel music?
Apart from my music career, I worked as a worker in production industries and factories in Israel. I am also an entrepreneur. However, God has given me grace to manage all of this without any conflict.
Are you satisfied with the current state of the gospel music industry?
Yes, I am very happy with the current state of the gospel music industry, especially my industry, although there is always room for improvement. But our gospel entertainers aren’t really doing badly. I celebrate all of them.
How do you plan to impact lives by using your talents?
The best way to influence someone’s life is to be a good role model for the person you wish to influence. Focus on and pursue those things that give you purpose in life, seek personal spiritual growth and become a better person, I am always open to hear ways I can improve. I have a teachable spirit.
How do you combine your activities in Israel and Nigeria?
I try to maximize my time by making sure I do everything at once. I always motivate myself that I can do it. I also try to create time for loved ones at home, especially my spouse. Life is all about balancing and setting priorities effectively.
Even as a gospel musician, temptations inevitably occur. How do you deal with being in the limelight and the allure that comes with it?
Well, God will give me grace to overcome every temptation in my music career. I always remember my humble beginnings. I don’t let star fame enter my head. My focus is on Jesus. The scripture says, “Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.”
How are you going to grow your fan base?
Good work that makes sense by consistently posting content. As long as my work benefits humanity, the fan base will continue to grow. I also grow my fan base through integrated marketing promotions. I believe that marketing through all media platforms and any other means will have a great impact on my fan base.
Tell us about your upbringing and educational background?
I was born on August 5, 1987 in Owerri, Imo. I started my education at Ikpe Eke Owerri Okwe Primary School, Onuimo Local Government Area, Imo State. Then I went to Umuna Union College in Onuimo Local Government Area. Afterwards, I moved to Anambra State where I registered to study automotive work for two years and obtained my certificate before entering the workforce. Today, I thank God for where I am, and I know the future is bright. The Bible says that the path of righteousness is like a lamp that shines brighter and brighter until the perfect day.
read also nigerian tribune
