Christian Hip Hop is a transformative genre within Black gospel music, and few artists embody its spirit quite like Mgosi. Born in Tanzania and raised in the United States, Mgosi's journey into music has been shaped by his multicultural upbringing and unwavering faith.
With a deep commitment to his craft, Mgosi has established himself as a rising star in the urban gospel scene. In a recent interview, He shed light on his inspirations, challenges, and aspirations as he continues to make his mark on Christian Hip-Hop.
Finding His Voice
Mgosi's passion for music was evident from an early age. He shares, “My love for Hip-Hop started at 11, after moving to the United States with my family.”
Immersed in the vibrant hip-hop culture of the 90s, Mgosi began honing his skills as a beatmaker and producer. At the time, he drew inspiration from various musical talents, including artists like Nas, Kanye West, Jay Z, and Lecrae.
Mgosi’s journey took an unexpected turn when he became a college radio DJ at UMass-Amherst, hosting a show called “Mission 101.” Reflecting on this period, Mgosi recalls, “My radio show featured local talent, emerging artists, and interviews with legendary musicians and Hip-Hop artists, such as Canibus.”
In 2009, however, Mgosi experienced a profound transformation in his life and music. “My spiritual walk with God elevated to a greater and deeper level when I was baptized,” he reflects.
This pivotal moment marked a turning point in his musical journey as he fully surrendered his life to Christ. “My music serves as therapy, a pathway to comfort, and guidance during challenging times when hope is essential,” he shares.
The Making of Seasons
Mgosi's latest project, “Seasons,” is a testament to his growth as an artist and a disciple of Christ. When asked about the inspiration behind the album, Mgosi explains, “The inspiration behind this album stems from life itself. It's a reflection of the journey of committing to following God.”
With themes of faith, perseverance, and triumph woven throughout the tracks, “Seasons” offers listeners a glimpse into Mgosi's spiritual journey and personal experiences.
Mgosi is constantly evolving as an artist. He pushes the boundaries of his creativity with each new project. He notes, “I believe this project sets itself apart from my previous work as I've evolved musically and honed my voice.”
With a newfound confidence, Mgosi explores new sonic territories while staying true to his roots. “Having more time and creative freedom for this project enabled me to truly connect with my spirit and draw inspiration to explore my creativity,” he adds.
Mgosi's collaborative spirit shines through on “Seasons,” with featured artists adding depth and dimension to the album's sound. “I have two features on this album: my brother-in-law, Ron Diesel, and Mike the Chaplain,” he reveals.
Each collaborator brings their unique talents to the table. “Ron is an exceptional storyteller who knows how to vividly paint a picture, enhancing the track's vision and overall sound. Meanwhile, Mike is a gifted singer whose musical talent speaks for itself; he consistently elevates any track he's on to the next level,” Mgosi explains.
As gospel singers and musicians, their collective harmonies resonate within the urban gospel community.
Spreading Hope and Joy Through Music
At the heart of Mgosi's music is a desire to uplift and inspire listeners, regardless of their background or beliefs. “The theme and message of my latest track revolve around hope, joy, and prosperity,” he shares.
With a blend of hip-hop, soulful jazz, and a touch of gospel house influences, Mgosi's music transcends genre boundaries. This enables it to resonate with audiences on a deeper level.
“While the subject matter aligns perfectly with the urban gospel community, I don't exclusively create music for that audience intentionally,” he explains. “My aim is for my music to resonate with people of diverse faiths and backgrounds, allowing them to be inspired by the message and the creative expression of God through me.”
For Mgosi, faith transcends mere belief; it permeates every aspect of his music. “Faith is everything to me, and my walk with Christ is guided by it,” he asserts. “Making music is my way of glorifying God and acknowledging His goodness. Therefore, having faith-based music is crucial to me.” Reflecting on his relationship with God, he adds, “Ultimately, I do it all for God, ensuring that He receives all the glory.”
Overcoming Challenges
Despite his passion for music, Mgosi faces challenges balancing his artistic pursuits with other responsibilities. Music aside, he is also a husband, father, and entrepreneur. “The biggest challenge for me was finding time,” he admits. “Balancing a wife, three kids, a full-time job, and running my own business doesn't leave much room for music creation.”
However, Mgosi remains undeterred. He always seeks new ways to help him prioritize his creative endeavors while staying grounded in his faith and family values. “Developing processes and scheduling creative time into my day has helped me seize rare moments and ignite my creativity faster. It's all about maintaining momentum. Additionally, involving my family in the creative process enables me to spend time with them while pursuing my passion,” he shares.
In the face of daunting obstacles, Mgosi's resolve remains unshakable. This is a testament to his unwavering faith and steadfast determination to pursue his passion for music. Fortified by his deep-rooted belief in God's guidance, his indomitable spirit empowers him to navigate life's challenges with grace and resilience.
Looking to the Future
With “Seasons” garnering positive reviews and new projects on the horizon, Mgosi's future looks bright.
“I'm currently working on my next EP,” he reveals. While details remain under wraps, fans can expect more of Mgosi's signature blend of faith-infused lyrics and innovative production. “There are some surprise features in store, but that's all I can reveal for now,” he teases.
Mgosi is a shining example of faith-driven artistry in a genre brimming with talent and creativity. His journey from Tanzania to the United States, his spiritual awakening, and his dedication to his craft all converge in his music. This offers listeners a glimpse into the transformative power of Christian Hip-Hop and gospel house.
As Mgosi continues to evolve and inspire, his music serves as a beacon of hope in a world that needs light and encouragement.
If you would like to show your support for Mgosi, follow him on Instagram at @mission101media and on TikTok at @mgosimusic. Spread his music by adding his tracks to your Spotify and Apple Music playlists. You can also explore his merchandise at www.mgosimusic.com.
