Meet Beebee Bassey, a Nigerian-born gospel artist who beautifully blends faith, cultural heritage, and musical passion. She began singing in church at the age of 13, and over the years has woven together her love for music with her academic achievements, earning degrees in Mass Communication and International Business. Through her uplifting gospel melodies, including her latest track, "Letter from God (I Am God)," Beebee shares powerful messages of hope, love, and faith.
Beebee’s talent and passion for music have been recognized on notable platforms like ‘The Voice of Cross River,’ where she finished as runner-up, and ‘Nigerian Idol,’ where she made it to the top five. A milestone in her journey was winning the Karaoke World Championship in Nigeria, which gave her the confidence to fully pursue her musical calling. She also took the stage as the lead Shirelle in the musical ‘Beautiful’ by Carol King at Theatre Seven in Shrewsbury, a defining moment in her career. In addition to performing, Beebee shares her passion through teaching, working as a vocal coach for Aspire Music and teaching at Stagecoach Performing Arts Warwickshire in the UK’s Midlands. Beebee Bassey continues to inspire through both her music and mentorship, always prioritizing heartfelt connections with her audience over fame.
In this interview, we talk about her journey, exploring how her faith, education, and cultural heritage have shaped her unique sound and songwriting. Discover the inspiration behind her latest track, "Letter from God (I Am God)," and learn about her experiences as a vocal coach and performer.
When did you first start singing, and what inspired you to pursue it seriously?
I started singing in the church at the age of 13. Being a preacher, music became a natural extension of my faith, and it was in that environment I first found my voice. My family was supportive of my music but also believed in the importance of education, so they encouraged me to pursue both. I ended up earning a bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication and a master’s in International Business from Ulster University, Birmingham. Despite the focus on my studies, music always had a powerful hold on me, and I knew that it was what I was meant to do. I also started playing the guitar about 10 years ago, which has helped me grow as a musician and songwriter.
The guitar is an unmissable part of your music, when did you start playing?
I started playing the guitar about 10 years ago. It’s become an essential part of my music journey, allowing me to explore different sounds and textures in my songwriting.
How do you think your upbringing or cultural background has influenced your music?
Growing up in Nigeria, gospel music was a huge influence, especially with the spiritual and rhythmic elements woven into our culture. Being a preacher also deeply impacts my music, as I aim to create songs that convey a powerful message of faith and hope. My family’s support, coupled with my faith, has shaped the way I approach music – as a tool to reach and inspire others.
How did you come up with your stage name, or is Beebee your real name, and does it have any special meaning?
My name was actually changed when I was quite young. My parents decided to rename me Blessing because they felt my original name had spiritual elements that didn’t align with who I was. However, when I was about 11 or 12, I was scribbling on my wardrobe, and the name Beebee just came to me. It felt like a natural extension of Blessing – simple but powerful. When I competed on Nigerian Idol, I wanted people to know where I was from, so I kept Bassey as a nod to my Efik heritage from Cross River State, Calabar. Beebee Bassey became the perfect way to merge both my personal and cultural identity.
If you could go back in time and give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?
I’d tell my younger self to embrace every opportunity and trust the process. Life’s path isn’t always straightforward, but every detour has a purpose. Don’t be afraid to take risks, because each step will bring you closer to where you need to be.
Tell us about your song “Letter from God” and what inspired it.
"Letter from God (I Am God)" is like a divine message – a reminder of God’s presence in our lives, especially during tough times. It’s a song that came from a deep place of reflection and faith, where I wanted to convey God’s love and reassurance to anyone who needs it.
How would you describe your song to someone who’s not heard of you before?
I’d describe it as a soulful and heartfelt track, blending gospel with contemporary elements. It’s a song meant to uplift and remind listeners that they are never alone – God is always with them.
How do you navigate between the need to be famous and the need to touch souls? Is that any concern for you?
Fame is not the goal for me. My main priority is to create music that touches souls and resonates with people on a deep level. I believe that when you focus on the message and stay true to yourself, everything else will fall into place.
That's great. What's the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
“Stay grounded in your faith and purpose.” This advice has kept me centred, no matter what happens in my career. It reminds me that everything I do should align with my calling.
If you could turn one Bible verse into a full song, which would it be?
Jeremiah 29:11: "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord..." This verse speaks to God’s plan for our lives, and I think it would make an incredible song about faith and trust.
That's profound. What's your Flfavourite lyric you’ve written and why?
My favourite lyric comes from "Letter from God (I Am God)":
I could stay awake just to watch you sleeping,
I could give my back as a bridge so you can make a cross,
I'll even shed my blood over again so you can be set free,
Ohh ohhh, I am your God.
This part really resonates with me because it speaks to the lengths God would go to protect and love us. It’s a powerful reminder of the sacrifice and unwavering support God provides, no matter the struggles we face. Every time I sing these words, I feel deeply connected to the message of unconditional love and grace.
Share your worst or funniest performance experience.
One of my most memorable experiences was when the sound cut out during a live performance. I had to keep going a cappella, and although it was a bit nerve-wracking, the audience was so supportive that it turned into a special moment.
Can you share three things about yourself or your career in music that most people might not know?
I’m very emotional and I love love – it influences how I write and express myself in music.
I struggle with remembering lyrics, which can be quite a challenge during performances.
Despite being a performer, I’m actually very shy!
Check out Beebee Bassey’s new single HERE
Posted by Abdulazeez A Shomade | Published on 2024-10-14 03:07:06