Contrary to the notion that young people don’t appreciate gospel music, the numbers show that young people are prioritizing spiritual improvement.
South African gospel band Joyous Celebration has become the most streamed choir in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) in the past 12 months, according to Spotify.
The long-running ensemble recently released their 28th album, recorded at the Durban ICC.
Gospel choirs have long been powerful incubators of musical talent, nurturing voices that have gone on to shape the wider music industry.
The choir is not only a breeding ground for future stars, but also a focal point for worship music.
From local church congregations to grand cathedrals, choirs have traditionally been the foundation of Christian musical expression.
Topped by Joyous Celebration, the top ten also includes other South African groups, including Spirit of Praise, the second most streamed act.
Nigeria's “1spirit & Theophilus Sunday”, led by Nigerian minister Minister Theophilus, is ranked third.
The list also includes the Loveworld Singers, a group under Nigerian Pastor Chris Oyakhilome’s Loveworld Incorporated.
- Fun celebration
- The Spirit of Praise
- 1. The Holy Spirit and Theophilus Sunday
- Artist Development by Leiwe La Motteo
- Universal Cathesis Apostolic Church of Zion
- Isaac and the Mighty Messengers
- Love World Singers
- Universal Catholic Church Choir
- Chapel
- Tshwane Gospel Choir
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gospel
In the age of digital streaming, gospel choirs are finding new ways to spread their message and melody beyond physical boundaries.
This digital revolution is not only expanding the reach of gospel choirs, it is also empowering them to build sustainable careers and communities beyond their local congregations.
Earlier this year, the streaming platform released data claiming that South Africa's Gen Z is leading the way when it comes to gospel playlists, with figures revealing that South African youth have created over 400,000 gospel playlists.
Contrary to the notion that young people don’t like worship music, Spotify’s numbers show that young people are making time for spiritual upliftment: in SSA, 33% of listeners are 18-24 years old, and 20% are 25-29 years old.
Meanwhile, in South Africa, 28% of listeners are aged 18-24 and 17% are aged 35-44.
Young people born between 1997 and 2012, known as Gen Z, appear to be moving away from congregating in church buildings and toward worshipping individually on their own time.
According to Spotify, there has been a significant increase in consumption of Christian podcasts and gospel music among Gen Z, with the former seeing a 44% increase in South Africa.
Related article: Gen Z's love of gospel music is fuelling a resurgence in the faith genre
Mzansi's little angels
Joyous Celebration are the most streamed group among Mzansi youth, followed by Spirit of Praise, while American contemporary worship collective Maverick City Music come in as the third most popular group.
The top five artists in terms of streams are rounded out by US groups Elevation Worship and Hillsong Worship.
In terms of most streamed albums, Spirit of Praise's “Spirit of Praise, Vol. 8 (Live)” and “Vol. 9 (Live)” top the list. Clap and tap group Lejwe La Motheo Artists Development's “Thapelo Yaka” is the third most streamed album.
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