Muyiwa – The hardest working man in UK gospel
Muyiwa Olarewaju is one of the most well-known African praise and worship artists to arise out of Britain’s Black Christian community. Born in London to Nigerian parents, Muyiwa spent his formative years in Nigeria before coming back to the UK with his siblings, aged nine.
His singing talent was nurtured at All Nations Church in Kennington, south London, where he served as a worship leader. His experience of leading worship – coupled with his professional expertise, gained working at Sony Music – put him in good stead when he started recording worship music. Muyiwa’s music ministry hit the road running from the start, capturing people’s hearts with songs like ‘Our God is Good’, ‘God of Miracles’ (a duet with Joe Mettle) and ‘Hey Ya’. To date, Muyiwa has released a total of seven albums; performed throughout the UK; and was one of the first UK gospel artists to sell out the Hammersmith Apollo.
Alongside his career as a praise and worship artist, Muyiwa presented a long-standing gospel music show on Premier Radio and was elevated to the role of Station Director when Premier Gospel was launched 15 years ago. In that same year, he became host presenter of Turning Point International, a faith-based magazine programme, broadcast across the world to an audience of 70 million. For most of that journey he has been supported by his wife, Lola, and their two sons. Muyiwa has received numerous awards for his work, including an OBE in 2020 for services to music. Keep The Faith caught up with Muyiwa following the 15th anniversary celebrations of Premier Gospel to learn more about his work, faith and aspirations for the future.
KEEP THE FAITH (KTF): Premier Gospel recently celebrated its 15th anniversary! Looking back, what do you consider to be some of the station’s biggest achievements over the years?
MUYIWA OLAREWAJU (MO): Our greatest achievement is championing UK Gospel and helping unknown artists, like CalledOut Music and Limoblaze, become global names. Supporting them from the start and seeing them now filling arenas is a true joy.
KTF: As Station Director, what has been your vision for Premier Gospel, and how has it evolved since its launch?
MO: Premier Gospel has grown through dynamic partnerships with organisations, like Apple Music, the London Symphony Orchestra, and now SXSW (South by South West). These partnerships have served to amplify UK Gospel’s impact across the nation. They’ve also helped raise the visibility of the music. We invest close to £1 million annually, making us the leading platform for UK Gospel.
KTF: What are your hopes for the next 15 years of Premier Gospel? Are there any exciting plans in the pipeline?
MO: I see Premier Gospel sitting alongside major music brands, known for championing gospel – just as the BBC does for music. Our new partnership with SXSW is just the beginning. There are much more exciting developments ahead that will play a part in taking UK Gospel to a new level.
KTF: You’ve been the face of Turning Point for many years, bringing inspirational stories to a global audience. What do you enjoy most about presenting the show?
MO: I love telling stories that encourage millions globally and seeing so many make commitments to Jesus each year. Creating wholesome TV that inspires is deeply rewarding.
KTF: What have been your most memorable moments on Turning Point?
MO: Welcoming artists, like Chandler Moore and Dante Bowe, before they were famous stands out. Giving upcoming talent their first spotlight and watching them soar is always a highlight.
KTF: You’re known as one of the hardest-working men in gospel. Looking back, what have been the biggest high points of your career so far?
MO: There have been many, but these stand out for me: touring the UK with hit albums and meeting the people; selling out the Apollo in Hammersmith – and being one of the first UK gospel artists to do so; performing on global stages; and topping jazz charts ahead of legends like Miles Davis… These moments are unforgettable. I’m grateful to God for every step and achievement.
KTF: With such a demanding schedule, how do you unwind and find time for yourself and your family?
MO: Travelling with family and catching up on sleep is my treat, though my wife insists we explore, not nap! Still, relaxing, eating, and enjoying new places… these are my perfect wind-downs.
KTF: Your faith is at the heart of everything you do. How does it influence your work, both as a broadcaster and a worship singer?
MO: My faith is my foundation for everything. I live to please God – not just in my work but in every part of life. Without faith, nothing else matters. It has brought me thus far and is the reason why I do what I do.
KTF: What advice would you give to young gospel artists or broadcasters looking to follow in your footsteps?
MO: Be authentic. Don’t chase trends or fame. Serve God with honesty. If your heart isn’t in it, find another path. Remember, you’ll reap what you sow; so do it for the right reasons.
KTF: Finally, what’s next for Muyiwa Olarewaju? Any new projects or dreams you’re working towards?
MO: I’m building haapu.tv – a family-friendly streaming platform, like David facing Goliath! New music, an ongoing church tour, and fresh projects are on the way. Follow me online and keep streaming our music! Visit www.premiergospel.org.uk or https://www.haapu.tv/#!/
