Ghanaian gospel singer Joseph Matthew, known for his award-winning music, asserts himself as the pioneer of Afro-Gospel music. This genre is characterized by its lively fusion of African rhythms and instrumentation with Christian themes. In an interview exclusively with GhanaWeekend, Joseph Matthew emphasized his role in shaping and popularizing Afro-Gospel music. "I’m the originator of Afro-gospel music... The Afro-Gospel genre never existed.

0

When I released my first song 'Nyame Ye,' I wasn’t in Ghana. When I came to Ghana to promote my award-winning song 'Blessed,' I decided to label it Afro-Gospel because you’re fusing two things. "Previously, I was doing Hiplife; I was rapping so when I started doing gospel music, I decided to combine the two with authentic African beats.

1

" Joseph Matthew's music has crossed geographical boundaries, earning him recognition as a prominent figure in both the Ghanaian and UK gospel music landscapes. His songs provide profound inspiration to Christians, distinguished by their mid-tempo melodies, captivating rhythms, and compelling bass lines and drum beats.

2

Joseph Matthew released his debut single track, "Hallelujah," in January 2019, followed by "Nyame Ye" in April 2019, "My Story" in 2020, "Not Alone" in 2021, "The Name" in 2022, "Blessed" in 2023, and now "Promise Land." At the 2023 Ghana Music Awards UK, his song "Blessed" won the 'Best Gospel Song of the Year UK' award.

3