Omowunmi Esther Oyeleke Offers Fresh Rendition of Nigerian Old-School Gospel Songs

Omowunmi Esther Oyeleke breathes new life into these timeless melodies, offering a praise medley that stays true to their lyrics while infusing them with renewed joy and reverence.

Her Old-School Praise Medley takes listeners on a soul-stirring journey through some of Nigeria’s most beloved gospel songs. With her silvery voice and light, cheerful instrumentals, Omowunmi celebrates the greatness of God, leading listeners in both praise and worship.

She begins with a song deeply ingrained into the routine of morning devotions in many Nigerian Christian homes: “This Is The Day.” The lyrics, derived from Psalms 118:24, set the tone for gratitude and celebration. “This is the day / this is the day that the Lord has made / that the Lord has made,” she sings, adding, “I will rejoice / I will rejoice, and be glad in him.” Her backup singers gently re-echo the lyrics, creating a layered effect that emphasizes collective worship.

From there, she seamlessly transitions into “I Love the Man of Galilee,” another staple in Nigerian gospel music. With effortless grace, she cruises through songs like “Praise The Lord, O Sing, O Sing” and “I Will Enter His Gates With Thanksgiving In My Heart,” her voice soaring with reverence as she revels in God’s mercy and greatness.

At the 10:51 mark, the atmosphere shifts as she moves into a worship session. The instrumentals soften, becoming more soulful in deference to God. “We worship you, Jesus,” she begins, her voice rich with emotion. She gives all the glory to God, urging listeners to do the same. “Come on, open your mouth and bless the name of the Lord,” she exhorts, inviting participation in the sacred moment.

Despite its unedited nature, the production effectively delivers heartfelt messages of praise and worship. Rather than feeling raw or unfinished, the organic sound enhances the authenticity of the experience, making listeners feel as though they are in the midst of a live church service.

Omowunmi’s deep connection to gospel music is rooted in her upbringing. Born into a Christian home filled with the sounds of gospel hits from radios and stacked CDs, she spent hours poring over songbooks, copying lyrics by hand. Her passion for music was evident from a young age, leading her from the confines of her home to school assemblies, classrooms, and playgrounds, where she shared her voice with anyone who would listen.

That passion eventually found a home in the RCCG choir, Victory Parish, Surulere, where she was a tiny girl among adult singers. Initially met with scepticism, she quickly won hearts with her powerful voice. Today, she leads worship at the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Edinburgh Tabernacle, UK, touching and transforming lives through her music ministry.

Even as her mission has taken her far from home, it has always brought her back to her roots—the place where her love for gospel music began.

Through every season, Omowunmi reminds us that each day is a gift from God—one to be embraced with joy and worship.

Michael Kolawole is a screenwriter, playwright, and cultural journalist/critic