Rebranded, Revamped, pumped with an enthusiasm like never before, we gladly introduce to you an all-new edition of our exclusive interview series christened “PraiseCampMeets”.
PraiseCampMeets, an exclusive interview series of PraiseCamp.com cuts across various spheres of the life of the artistes you love. It’s a tool of insight and learning as diverse topics of interest are being discussed, even as we journey into the musical life of your favorite artistes.
This time, we were highly privileged and honored to meet with one of Nigeria’s foremost female Gospel music ministers, songwriter, and also a longtime member of the Presidential praise team of the Believers’ LoveWorld Nation a.k.a Christ Embassy.
Ladies & gents, fellow PraiseCampers we present to you – Ayo Vincent.
Ayo Vincent (though needing no introduction) stands out as one of the most-recognized female Gospel artistes in the Nigerian music industry. She is a versatile Gospel music recording artist, minister and superwoman. Her impactful career/ministry spans across over a decade.
Her musical associations with several accomplished Nigerian artistes over the years such as Hope Davies, Lagbaja, Samsong, Femi Jacobs, Modele; to mention but a few, surely proves she is indeed an undeniable force to be reckoned with in the “min-dustry”.
Her debut album titled – “I Am Yours” released in the year 2012, under the InnerFire Entertainment imprint contains the musical ingenuity of two Nigeria’s finest music men – FLOROCKA & Cobhams Asuquo. The 10-track musical project houses a few hits which include – the spirit stirring number – ‘’You Are Great’’ featuring Joe Praize, ‘’Serve The Lord’’ [remix featured Mavins boss, Don Jazzy] & ‘’Abum Onye Mmeri”, and many more. All materials are available for purchase on digital stores worldwide.
In this interview, we journey into the world of Ayo Vincent, her musical career, family and her views about life and its totality.
And without no further ado, check out our interview after the cut;
Tell us about Ayo Vincent?
Ayo Vincent is a gospel artist who is a Christian, worship leader, married to Hilary Vincent, a mother of 4 beautiful Children & a member of the BLW Nation.
Walk us through your life, family and music ministry.
My life has been a very interesting one. It would be almost impossible to capture it in a couple of sentences. I’m the last of 7children. I was born and raised in Lagos. My mum is Urhobo and my dad is Lagosian. I attended Queen’s College Yaba Lagos and graduated from LASU with a degree in Economics. I’m married to the most hardworking, determined man who loves God and his family passionately. We’ve been married for 11 years. 11 years on the 25th of June. God has blessed us with (4) four amazing children. I’ve been a member of Christ Embassy since 1999 so….do the math Lol. It’s been an amazing journey.
Oh great! When did you discover your love for songwriting and performing?
I’ve always loved music. Always! As far as performing….hahaha not so much because I was so shy and I would get so nervous. For me music is a calling and a passion. When God calls you, He equips you so I’ve been able to get over any shyness. Songwriting is both a gift and a skill I believe and I’m a budding songwriter. I’ve received songs from the Spirit of God so it’s a bit difficult to claim ownership. LOL!
How many songs have you written, since the inception of your ministry? (Both released and yet-to-be released).
Hmm quite a number.
What excites you most about the Nigerian Gospel music scene right now?
Interestingly, the rap scene. Guys like SamJamz, Trusouth, Nolly, Protek. It’s funny because I’m not particularly a fan of hip-hop but I’m feeling these guys.
Similarly, what are the most commonly faced challenges in the Gospel music industry?
Age old question. Lol. The challenges are both general and specific. For instance we all desire more funds to create richer music, better videos, promote our music on all the media platforms both online and terrestrial. We all want to create classics or hits; we want more support etc. Specific in the sense that single ladies have a different set of challenges from say ladies such as myself with children, so yeah!
Would you consider an offer to sign to a record label that houses the very famous “secular” artists?
If the record deal being offered is a good one and more importantly the content of my music is not interfered with in any way I might prayerfully consider it. That’s why we have men of God isn’t it? My pastor is there to guide me and ensure I make the right decision.
Do you think accolades/awards are distractions from the call to ministry?
No I don’t think so, as long as your focus as a minister is on God, Jesus and the ministry he has committed into your hands and not on the accolades/awards.
Would you hesitate to perform your songs at a club?
I’m not ashamed of the gospel. Our music is from the church to the world so No! It wouldn’t be a problem.
Five Nigerian Gospel artists you’re feeling at the moment?
Too many to mention! Besides I mentioned a few earlier.
Five artists you would love to work/collaborate with?
Frank Edwards. Nathaniel Bassey. Samsong. Tasha Cobbs. Cobhams. Two (2) of these people have produced tracks for me but I would love their voices on my tracks or vice versa. Helloooo! Please make sure they read this oh!
What top 5 albums have you been listening to lately?
I honestly don’t know the titles of their albums but I’m loving them and their music Travis Greene, Jonathan Mcreynolds, Tasha Cobbs, Frank Edwards (Frankincense) and Le’Andria Johnson
What genres of music would one find on your playlist?
Soul, RnB, Soft Rock and Afro-pop.
Should Gospel artists cover popular mainstream songs? Let’s have your thoughts.
I wouldn’t do it, I see no reason to. That’s just me though.
Tell us about your plans for the rest of the year!
I’m working on my album at the moment and no I do not have a release date. Watch out for new singles. Byeee
Wow! Such an amazing time we had. Thank you for hanging out with us on this edition, the lovely Ayo Vincent. We love and celebrate you always.
Connect with Ayo Vincent:
