I want to proclaim Jesus globally with my music, Philadelphia Kes

Fast-rising gospel music sensational singer, Philadelphia Ekesiena, well known by the stage name Philadelphia Kes, has released her debut single titled, He Came Through.

The song according to the Delta State native is a sincere appreciation to God, who has unswervingly shown Himself strong in her life and remained faithful to her year in year out.

Commenting on what inspired the title of the song, Philadelphia Kes said, “there was a time in my life where depression, regular mood swings were the order of the day. Then my cousin came up with the song and we co-wrote it, and that was how I was able to really express myself through the lyrics of the song.”

She stated that the song took about five years to come manifestation “because we had the song since my university days and decided to revamp it four years after graduation. As we maintain a heart of gratitude in this season, this powerful song will stir up a wellspring of love in our hearts to appreciate God like never before.”

On her journey into music, the gospel act says, “I literary grew up in church, joined the children’s choir at a very tender age and became one of the best at the time. While in high school, I still kept at it and during university days was when I knew singing was my thing and decided to do it for real. I had my B.Sc in International Economics from Ternopil National Economic University, Ukraine.”

What informed your choice of gospel music over secular?
“I grew up in church and gospel music is everything I‘ve known as a child up until now, even though I’m a wide listener and I listen to diverse genres. So, the love for gospel came naturally. Growing up as a child I did the music for fun, I didn’t think of becoming a professional someday but I kept sharpening up the craft.

“Like I said, it was when I went to the university to study and became an economist that I realised that my love for music is beyond just doing it for fun and that I’d like to do it full time. So my undying love for music inspired my decision to go into it fully.”

Assessing the Nigerian gospel music industry, the gospel singer said, “Gospel music in Nigeria is still growing; it’s got a lot of potentials even across West Africa and the entire world. What we have so far are a lot of very talented gospel artists but need help in the area of awareness, promotion, distribution, and production.”

“Radio stations, TV stations, and other media platforms need to promote us more. That way we will get the maximum coverage. We need exposure. So the gospel music industry in Nigeria is coming up and we ‘ve got room to improve but we are doing well,” she added.

Asked how she intend to navigate and stand out in the overcrowded Nigerian gospel industry, the third of six children say, “I have a sound I’m set to project, I want to be as original as possible, with that I’m sure I’ll stand out and in turn break even.”

For her good music, achieving a set goal, and a couple of other things gives her joy, while she is easily turning you off by lies, deceit, bad smell.

Where do you see yourself in five years?
“I see myself proclaiming the name of Jesus around the world and anywhere my feet step on. I’m sold out to making Jesus famous through my songs as that is the whole essence of salvation. I hope to own or co-own a record label someday where I can sign upcoming artists to relieve them from some of the stress I’m passing through now, and make music-making becomes easier and fun-filled.”

Commenting on the challenges as a gospel artist and how she copes with them, Philadelphia Kes said, “Really, it’s not easy putting out good music; I mean the whole process of producing, engineering, promoting. Having to keep up with the financial commitments has been a major challenge but somehow God makes away and things are sorted

A fan of Efe Nathan, one of Nigeria’s widely celebrated female gospel artists, and American praise and worship leader, Maranda Curtis, who she hopes to be like someday.

“I love Maranda Curtis; when I grow up I want to be like her. I love Efe Nathan as well; her vocal strength is one, which I covet. So I keep working hard every day.”

What other talents do you have outside music?
“I’m very good with clothes; fashion generally such that I have plans to set up a fashion outfit soonest.”