Adekunle Gold discusses musical roots and church choir upbringing

Afrobeats and Fuji singer Adekunle Gold has shared details regarding his musical upbringing during an appearance on the One54 Africa podcast. Despite being raised in a Muslim family, Gold spent 11 years participating in a church choir, a path made possible by his father’s liberal views on religion.

Gold noted that he was deeply inspired by the ability of choir leaders to engage and control congregations through music. Although he was not selected for leadership roles during his time in the choir, the experience motivated him to refine his skills through rigorous rehearsal. He also credited his aunt, a choir member, for teaching him and his siblings vocal harmonies.

His musical development progressed from composing his first song at age 15 to gaining national recognition with his 2014 highlife cover, ‘Sade’. Reflecting on his career, Gold encouraged those facing difficulties, stating that ‘dark seasons do not last forever.’