Immigrant businessman launches a gospel album

“In his presence” is principally about worshipping God. Ikenna said the title is a reference to the peace and joy he finds in the presence of God. More than 500 Christians and non-Christians attended the launch, many of whom were Nigerian. Posters advertising the event were distributed in all parts of Cape Town.

When asked if he will now abandon his cosmetics business to focus on a music career, Ikenna said he is balancing both and that the music career is not actually a new career path. He explained, “I have always been singing in church since childhood. I released five albums before I came to South Africa. I released my first album when I was 19 years old.

Ikenna stressed the importance of time management as an artist. “Juggling between two careers is not easy … I utilise every opportunity I get. For instance, sometimes I compose songs while I am at work when inspiration hits me.” Asked for whom he sings, Ikenna explained that his music is for a broad audience. “The objective of this music is to spread gospel to the world. For this reason, I do not have a target audience.” The music is also intended to reach both Christians and non-Christians.

When Ikenna posted the new album on his Facebook page, he received positive feedback. There are still other albums to be released but Ikenna’s 2013 resolution was to launch “In his presence” for his fans in Nigeria who have long awaited something fresh. His market is quite large in Nigeria where his music is marketed by Vinosco. “In his presence” is his first album to be launched in South Africa.

Various churches have invited Ikenna to perform and several are also supporting him financially. His dream is to establish a praise and musical centre that will draw large crowds in search of a unique worshipping community. “The centre will be different from churches because I will not ask people to donate or bring any money or gifts unless they are deeply moved to do so. It should be unique unlike new churches formed these days to milk people’s money,” he explained.

Ikenna does not face financial challenges. Many of his Nigerians friends and brothers support him. Instead, he believes that he is challenged spiritually and emotionally.