LISTEN TO THE FULL PROJECT ON APPLE MUSIC
Asha Elia’s trademark silky smooth satin vocals display full confidence in her powerful ballad ‘HEAVENLY WAR’ that whatever the fight at hand a child of God is covered. Her fiance rapper Namesbliss also features on the track with his bars bringing a cool urban vibe to Asha’s sultry sound. A MOBO Award nominee in 2022 and winner of StepFWD Awards Female Artist of The Year twice in a row, has rapidly established Asha Elia as one of the rising stars of the UK Contemporary Gospel scene. Her unique fusion of RnB, soul and pop has led to collaborations with artists as diverse as Jonathan Ogden, Limoblaze and Marizu.
‘I’ve been learning that spiritual warfare is about choosing life, as children of God we have so much more power than we often realise. We just need to know who we are before we can walk our true identity. This is especially true for the war in our minds.” – Asha Elia
Powerful in its simplicity, ‘IN CONTROL’ reflects Folabi Nuel’s absolute confidence that in every storm we face in life God is always in control. This live recording with his exceptional vocals is filled with warmth and strength of conviction that will not fail to touch listeners on a deeper visceral level. A relative newcomer to the UK, Folabi is a multi-talented singer, songwriter and composer of Nigerian origin. With a growing international presence, Folabi Nuel has collaborated with renowned artists such as Timi Dakolo, Johnny Drille and Nosa. He has also composed music for famous Nollywood soundtracks.
I was in a season of doubt and found myself in a low place in my life when I heard these words: ‘when you are feeling low, remember I am in control.’ Those words etched in my mind, I rushed to my home studio and, in a mere two hours, produced an entire song around them.” – Folabi Nuel
The uplifting pop-vibe of Sharyn’s ‘DIVINE’ is filled with boundless joy that comes from a close connection with God. The rich expressiveness and positivity of ‘DIVINE’ instantly restores balance and elevates the mood. With a voice divinely blessed with tremendous depth and versatility, Sharyn effortlessly mixes genres from Afrobeats to R&B, Soul, Garage, House, and Pop. Since her breakthrough debut album “IN FULL BLOOM” recorded during the pandemic Sharyn’s music has attracted millions of streams and airplay on BBC1 & BBC 1XTRA, deservedly winning Best Female Vocalist at Premier Gospel Awards in 2022.
Divine was born towards the end of the pandemic. A time when many of us underwent changes, had numerous questions, and sought comfort in various things. Yet, in the darkest and loneliest of nights, there is a cosmic love that relates to the pain and uncertainties we face daily. ‘Divine’ celebrates God’s love and the essence of Jesus, inspiring us to become more.” – Sharyn
RYAN HYLTON – ‘TRUE’
Delivering a deep message in a feel good sound is central to Ryan Hylton’s musical expression. His new live recording ‘TRUE’ is no exception. Lyrics such as ‘My life needs to reflect you – because you are always true’ speak to the soul. Ryan shares his deep desire to remain true, staying close to God amidst distractions, with his heart full of sincerity. Yet striking that fine balance of being tremendously creative yet remaining unassuming and true to self is evident from Ryan’s unique approach to music and life. From his first EP “Journey’ released in May 2020, Ryan Hylton has rapidly become one of UK Gospel’s most exciting new additions.
You’re my strength when life’s tough, my identity in you is worth more than fame.” – Ryan Hylton
LISTEN TO THE FULL PROJECT HERE
Live music performances of the songs will also feature on a TBN UK special “A UK Gospel Celebration” airing on Friday 8 September along with a roundtable conversation with some of UK’s leading Gospel artists as the UK celebrates Gospel Heritage Month. A UK Gospel Celebration began on 1st September with the release of two hit covers: ‘Great is Your Mercy’ by Folabi Nuel & Sharyn and ‘Nobody Greater’ performed by Asha Elia & Ryan Hylton. From last year and growing ever stronger, Platoon is championing the growing influence of UK Gospel music on the global music scene with its creative initiatives.
“A UK GOSPEL CELEBRATION” RELEASE SCHEDULE
Originals + Duet Covers (Full Project) – Out 8th September
Asha Elia – Heavenly War (Live)
Ryan Hylton – True (Live)
Folabi Nuel – In Control (Live)
Sharyn – Divine (Live)
ALL PRESS ASSETS (COVER ART, AUDIO, PRESS RELEASES)
A UK Gospel Celebration – TBN TV Special – Out 8th September
Airs 7pm TBN UK on Channel 66 Freeview 582 Sky.
Duet Covers – Out 1st September
Folabi Nuel + Sharyn – Great Is Your Mercy (Donnie Mclurkin)
Asha Elia + Ryan Hylton – Nobody Greater (Vashawn Mitchel)
Background:
The special releases and programming build on last year’s Gospel Heritage project that played a key role in bringing UK focus to Gospel Heritage Month, a celebration usually observed in September in the US. The project featured the likes of Sinach, Tim Godfrey and 9 other incredible artists from across Africa, Jamaica and the UK.
The UK Gospel Music Industry Alliance embraced the project and are working to make it an official celebration in the UK year on year
