Narekele Mo: A Hymn of Gratitude That Resonates Across Africa

Tim Godfrey, a Nigerian-based gospel singer, has made a track that has extended past the borders of Nigeria and is now sung in many African church, including some of those in South Africa. “Narekele Mo,” since it was released, has become popular especially as a theme for New Year church services where the members of the congregation rejoice with the Lord for the favours received in the course of the year.

What does ‘Narekele Mo’ mean?

The title of this song is in the Igbo language; ‘Narekele Mo’ translated into English literally means, ‘Accept my praise, ‘both the name and the lyric express the spirit of the song, an offering of thanksgiving and praise to God.

Theologically, “Narekele Mo” contains a philosophy which a devotee has to depend on divine mercy. As in many African societies, the members of the Christian fold make reference to divine agency in their operations as they negotiate their daily lot. When singing “accept my praise” everyone affirms a faith in a merciful, hears prayers, heals diseases and knows the human heart, all depicted in the lyrics of the song.

Translated Lyrics

The song’s lyrics are a powerful expression of gratitude and devotion:

• “He’s done so much for me; I cannot tell it all Nar’ekele m’o (Accept my praise)”
• “If I had ten thousand tongues It still wouldn’t be enough Nara ekele m’o (Accept my praise)”
• “Chukwu na gwom o ria le (God that heals my disease) When You heal, You heal completely Nar’ekele mo (Accept my praise)”
• “Chukwu mara obim o (God who knows my heart) Isi ikendu le! (Living water!) Nar’ekele m’o (Accept my praise)”

The refrain is particularly moving:

• “What shall I render to Jehovah? For He has done so very much for me Nara, nara eh, Nar’ekele (Accept my praise)”

Impact and Reception

In fact, since the video was posted on September 13, 2018, “Narekele Mo” video has attracted over 18 million views on You Tube. That the song is sung during special church services and in the New Year in particular underscores what the song is and is not: it is an anthem of thanksgiving.

An example is Tim Godfrey who put English and Igbo language in his music in order to unite English and Igbo congregations together and worship. This is seen and felt in how he has packaged profound and spiritual messages in melodious tunes ‘Narekele Mo’.

Tim Godfrey known for his dynamism in the gospel music industry apart from being a singer, is also a great music director, a song writer, producer among others. His influence to the gospel scene is seen in his song “Narekele Mo” whereby he demonstrated ability, knowledge, creativity and potential of deep understanding in music and artistry.

Artistic Journey and Professional Roles

With leadership and vision of a music director, Tim Godfrey has assembled many people and created music that has appealed to listeners across the world. Another example of him being a songwriter include; “Narekele Mo,” which has well written lyrical content and has an undertone of a cultural and spiritual theme. In addition to that as a producer he defines the sounds that makes gospel music appealing to not only the folks in Nigeria but to the rest of world .

Educational Contributions

Besides performing and recording, the impressive part of a larger picture, there are numerous indications that Tim Godfrey is willing and active to invest in the future generations as music teacher or vocal instructor. All these he portrays in the quality and professionalism of the music he produces and or performs. Engagement in art training consultancy makes him more concerned with the training of artists, and society’s growth overall.

Recognition and Influence

He was honored when he was awarded an honorary doctorate degree of fine arts in Musicology from Trinity International University of Ambassadors, Atlanta, Georgia in October 28, 2018. This accolade can be attributed to his activism and commitment in the area of gospel music and education .

Digital Presence and Accessibility

Tim Godfrey has his social media platforms that followers and fans can access to follow his work and teachings. His users account on YouTube where he uploads his videos of his music and performances and page on Facebook that gives updates on his current projects and shows. For anyone interested in his catalogue, he is available for streaming on services like Apple Music.

In the video “Narekele Mo”, the hook is very powerful.

1. Musical Composition: First of all, the hook of the song “Narekele Mo” is catchy, with a melody that encourages and can easily be memorized. This kind of melody can be taken along by the listeners and happily sing the song even after one hearing of the song.

2. Emotional Connection: The first line of the hook Nara, nara eh, Narekele, Narekele mo means a sincere begging from the singer to God and other deities to accept his praise. This is a direct and literal cry for God’s recognition that is more than just a song – it is a hymn.