His journey from a childhood fascination with jazz to a profound calling to worship is a testament to the power of faith and the transformative nature of music. Pastor Nathaniel Bassey is a name synonymous with contemporary gospel music in Nigeria and beyond. He is more than just a musician; he is a minister, a worship leader, and an inspiration. His heartfelt vocals and soulful trumpet playing have brought countless people into the presence of God, making him a significant force in the Christian music landscape.
Early Life
Born on August 27, 1981, in Somolu, Lagos, Nigeria, Nathaniel Bassey’s roots date back to Ikot Ofon Ikono, Akwa-Ibom State. His father, Elder E. Joshua Bassey, a trumpeter and preacher in The Apostolic Church, Bashua Assembly, played a crucial part in shaping Nathaniel’s musical tendencies. Elder Bassey fostered his son’s passion for music and the gospel, pushing him to become a great musician and even recommending it as a substitute for engineering, which was his first desired career path.
He fostered Nathaniel’s appreciation of rhythm and melody by exposing him to highlife music, especially the sounds of the renowned Jim Rex Lawson. Dr. Panam Percy Paul, a well-known figure in Nigerian gospel music, had a profound impact on young Nathaniel and stoked his love of music.
Nathaniel Bassey is a graduate of the University of London with a degree in Politics and International Relations. He has also taken music courses at the Middlesex University Summer School in the UK, where he studied popular music and music business. His education and musical experience give him a well-rounded perspective that informs his ministry. He is the director of music at The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG); The King’s Court, further showcasing his dedication to using his musical talents to serve the church. He composes, performs, and produces his own music.
Music Ministry
Early on, Nathaniel was more interested in jazz music. He studied the skills of jazz greats such as Hugh Masekela, Stan Getz, Kirk Whalum, Phil Driscoll, Clifford Brown, Charlie Parker, Louis Armstrong, and Miles Davis while immersing himself in their compositions. Due to his love of jazz, he joined Spectrum 4, one of Lagos’ top jazz quartets, and performed with pals from his early years. Elder Steve Rhodes, a well-known personality in the Nigerian jazz scene, was quickly impressed by his talent and asked him to lead the Steve Rhodes Orchestra, which was possibly the country’s first jazz orchestra.
Nathaniel led the band and played lead trumpet for two years, earning notoriety and vital experience. Teemac, Ayo Bankole Jr., Cobhams Asuquo, Wole Oni, Yinka Davies, Adlan Cruise, Funsho Ogundipe, Peter King, Sotiris Papadopoulus, Paul Petersen, the French Cultural Center, and the American International School were among the notable musicians and composers who sought his unique and soulful trumpet playing.
Nathaniel had a successful career in conventional music, but he had a higher purpose. He had the feeling that his music was intended for a deeper purpose. He took a break from his regular obligations to seek God’s will for his life, guided by the late Pastor Eskor Mfon of The Redeemed Christian Church of God, City of David Parish. Despite some people’s disapproval, this choice was a watershed in his career. He learned that music was a potent instrument for worship and fostering a relationship with God, not merely for amusement, through close communion with the Holy Spirit.
His music ministry, which aims to create “music of heaven” that ministers to the Lord and fosters a closer relationship between God and His people, was born out of this revelation. Since then, his trumpet playing and his serene yet impassioned singing have become a defining feature of his ministry, bringing countless people into God’s presence at church services, concerts, and crusades.
“Elohim,” Nathaniel’s 2008 debut album, was praised as a spiritual and artistic masterpiece when it was recorded and mixed in Cape Town, South Africa. The popular soft-rock song “Someone’s Knocking at the Door” attracted a lot of attention both domestically and abroad. Since then, he has put out a number of additional significant albums and singles that all have his distinctive fusion of stirring words, soulful melodies, and a strong sense of spiritual connection. His music has struck a chord with listeners all across the world, making him a popular minister and worship leader.
Marita Status
Pastor Sarah Bassey and Nathaniel Bassey have a happy marriage. They were married on April 13, 2013, and their romance started in 2008. They are fortunate to have a daughter and a son. His family gives him a solid base of love and support, which allows him to devote himself fully to his ministry.
