There is no doubting the fact, AfroGospel Music, a genre that fuses traditional African sounds with modern gospel vibes, is taking the world by storm. And at the forefront of this movement is the dynamic Michael Olayinka Abdul better known as Mike Abdul, a maestro who’s pushing the boundaries of African creativity and narratives.
Reputed for his hit singles like Korede, and Iro Halleluyah, the award winning gospel singer, music producer, and songwriter, recently released his latest masterpiece, Fuji Rush, a game-changer.
This sonic sensation blends the traditional Fuji music of the Yoruba people with contemporary gospel elements, creating a unique sound that is both authentic and innovative. The rhythms and melodies intertwine with spirituality is a musical experience that is infectious, uplifting, and deeply rooted in African culture.
More than just a song, Fuji Rush is a movement; it’s a celebration of African heritage, a declaration of faith, and a testament to the power of creativity. The six-minute energetic single reaffirms the Midnight Crew’s co-founder’s influence on the AfroGospel music scene in Nigeria and across Africa.
With its mesmerizing beats, soul-stirring lyrics, and Mike Abdul’s velvety voice, the latest musical offering, is sure to get the listener up and grooving. Fuji Rush carries the same modernized Fuji energy that marked his days with the Midnight Crew, home to Africa-wide hits like Igwe and This Fuji Thing.
While it’s not a radical departure from what the Eyan Jesu and Ojoro singer has done before, the song stays true to his signature mix of uplifting gospel messages, vibrant beats, catchy rhythms, and African storytelling—creating a sound that connects with audiences from all walks of life.
The track blends modern string and horn arrangements with traditional percussion-led Fuji, resulting in a lively celebration of African gospel music. “The inspiration for the song came from a desire to break the invisible line between the sacred and the street. I wanted to remind people that Godliness is for everyone, and praise can come in any sound. The message is simple—let your joy in God be real, loud, and contagious. Don’t hold back; let it rush,” Mike Abdul said.
Since bursting onto the Nigerian music scene over 20 years ago as lead songwriter and vocalist for the youth gospel group Midnight Crew, the Baba e Se crooner has naturally and progressively honed his style, which many AfroGospel artistes have emulated.
Mike Abdul’s impact goes beyond his music. As a storyteller, he weaves narratives that reflect the African experience, with all its complexities and triumphs. Through his art, he’s giving voice to a continent that is rich in culture, diversity, and talent.
Going solo in 2013 allowed him greater creative freedom, leading to albums like Good 2 Go, Korede, and Grateful. Mike Abdul’s enduring relevance is tied to his adaptability—seamlessly blending English and several Nigerian languages, and weaving in genres from Fuji and Highlife to Afrobeats, Apala, House, Choral, Hip Hop, and more.
“From a spiritual standpoint, I just step out of the way when God is trying to pass a message through me. Sometimes the direction doesn’t make sense from a business perspective, but when I follow it, the result is always surprising.
“This isn’t about keeping gospel music in a corner—it’s about going into the culture; speaking the language of the streets, and flipping the narrative. Trends change, but impact lasts. People may forget the charts, but they’ll remember how your music made them feel. That’s legacy—and legacy outlives trends,” he said.
Over the years, the Morire, Blessing Now, Jesu Mi Da, 30-Billion Halleluyah, and the global favourite Ojoro singer’s collaborations have extended beyond gospel music. His ability to infuse trends like Amapiano into his work has led to standout tracks such as Keep It to Myself (featuring Nosa), Son of God (with Veeki Royce), and Comot Body by Sammie Okposo (featuring Mike Abdul and Bidemi Olaoba).
Other popular songs by the Yabatech Electrical Engineering graduate, include Halleluyah Always (featuring Ada Ehi), Ready To Praiz, Oritsejafor, Carry Body, This New Year (With Emma OMG), Baba Ese, O Ma Loud (featuring Greatman Takit), Ko Da Mi Da, and Iro Halleluya (featuring Tope Alabi).
He has also worked with Bouqui, Shola Allyson, RotimiKeys, Obiwon, Blaque Jersey, Tim Godfrey, Olaitan Dada, Dekunle Fuji, SammY-Young, 1stBon, MoniQue, Rooftop MCs, Wole Oni, and Mr Daz. These collaborations have broadened his fanbase across diverse audiences.
As AfroGospel Music continues to gain momentum, Mike Abdul’s Fuji Rush leads the charge; it’s a call to action, a reminder that African creativity is vibrant, diverse, and worthy of recognition.
With its universal language and infectious energy, the medley is poised to inspire a new generation of music lovers, both on the continent and beyond. Let’s celebrate African creativity, narratives, and the boundless talent of artistes like Mike Abdul. The future of AfroGospel and indeed music is bright.
