Akosua DF: Its been a while since we heard from Niiella the solo artist. Youve contributed significantly to The Spirituals and Sanctuary Music. Can fans expect any Niiella music soon?

Niiella: The past two years have been so vital in my life and my career. Ive discovered parts of myself that I wasnt even aware of. Ive helped build movements that are thriving and Im just glad to have been instrumental to it all. I tried to release music several times over the past two years and every time, it just didnt feel right. I believe Im starting to transition into a more confident Niiella and Im very sure the music that will come out of all of this will be life changing even for myself. I cant promise and say itll be soon just because I wouldnt want to disappoint you all since, Im still on this journey of becoming but if I had my way, I would love for a few singles to drop in 2022.

Akosua DF: Your cover of Joe Mettles Ye Obua Mi has been a smash hit. What inspired you to cover that particular song?

Niiella: Ive always had a major love for Joe Mettle and his songs for years. This particular song however hit me in such a powerful way. I hadnt planned to sing it for the Wildfire Worship Service until Joe did the #YeObuaMiChallenge on IG and posted my video where I sang the song. It did very well on his page and thats when I thought why dont I sing it live? Its actually on the day of the event itself when I was singing the song, that I really realised what the song meant to me. The past two years have been very trying for me and God has taken me on some crazy journeys of trust that have stretched me to what I thought was my limit. Through it all, Ive had to just hold on and believe God to keep me. Thats why this song which is taken from Psalm 121 made so much sense to me as I sang it that day.

Akosua DF: Ive got to ask how did you feel when Jonathan McReynolds gave you his stamp of approval during your stint on Sunday Best? His exact words on his Monday Casual show were . that girl to me has what it takes to be an artist, I love her.

Niiella: It definitely boosted my confidence in being a unique artist. Also coming all the way from the UK, being amid Americans who can sing their faces off, it was nice to see that the artistry and authenticity Ive been cultivating all these years shined through and someone like Jonathan McReynolds who is also unique in what he does could recognise that.

Akosua DF: If you could collaborate with any artist who would that be?

Niiella: Currently Id love to collaborate with Jonathan Traylor. Thats my friend! I love him, his artistry, and his heart.

Akosua DF: You run a vocal masterclass called Vobox. Tell us a bit about it & how interested learners can register for the course.

Niiella: Yes, I had a VOBOX masterclass in Ghana which was amazing with a great turnout. We had so much fun, and participants learnt a lot. Right now, its a little difficult for me to hold one on one sessions consistently so Im leaning towards doing group sessions depending on what country Im in but people can still send an email to [email protected] and I can let them know availability for one on one sessions, pricing etc.

Interviewed and Written by Akosua DF, Premier Gospel Presenter

Thursday, 18 November 2021

Singing sensation Niiella is a household name in the UK gospel community. The singer-songwriter is the first UK gospel artist to make the top 10 on BETs Sunday Best. I believe and Shades of Mercy are a few of the stars hits. Fun fact - Niiella penned the pidgin lyrics for The Spirituals mega-hit; Wade in The Water.