Gospel singer Maranatha Goroh’s voice resonates deeply. Her rich, soulful sound has seen her winning awards, collaborating with international artists and performing on a wide array of stages. With stunning looks to match, she has become a musical force to be reckoned with.
Describing herself as a simple woman who loves the Lord, when Goroh’s not working, she spends her time cooking and playing with her dogs – Tobi and Susy.
“I decided on gospel music because of my walk with the Lord. Gospel music for me is much more than a genre – it is the message behind the music. The lyrics and the presence that the music carries are very important and special to me. My talent is God’s gift to me so I give my skill back to God through my music,” she says.
Goroh began singing at the tender age of 12. Having grown up in the church, she naturally sang there and later at other events.
One thing was constant: Her passion for music.
She says she loves being an artist because it is a great way to express herself and touch the hearts of many.
“For me, music is the only tool that does not need your permission to touch your soul. Music has got great power. You can listen to a song that you don’t like and still end up remembering the lyrics. The messages have the power to touch people’s lives and get them through the day,” she says.
The 2017 best gospel and best live performance award winner at the Namibian Annual Music Awards, Goroh’s music is known for its messages of love and restoration. She says these messages stem from personal experiences.
“Having gone through a lot of pain and trials in my childhood and overcoming them through the mercy and grace of God has motivated me to become the artist I am today. I want to bring the message of God’s grace and mercy to everyone. Through my music, I am mainly encouraging people that it does not matter what they have been through or what you have done, God’s arms are always open wide to receive them,” she says.
She believes in the power of gospel music to touch lives.
“Gospel music is on the rise. Today we have come to see great singers who were once secular artists who have now turned their lives over to Christ and are singing about the Lord and His love. With more support and time, I can say that the genre will grow even more in the next few years.”
Goroh however adds that the genre faces challenges, such as a lack of support. “I feel that many people have yet to grasp gospel music and see beyond it as a genre, but rather a powerful message that can completely transform lives.”
During her career, she’s shared the stage with well-known South African artist Rebecca Malope, and recently worked with international artists on her new album. Goroh said she enjoys collaborating as it not only brings exposure for artists, but also helps them to grow their craft and learn more about the music industry.
“Working with international artists has given me the understanding of how the international industry works. I am thankful that I had the chance to work with Naomi Classik, a top Nigerian vocal coach, because it has given me better knowledge on my craft. I believe as an artist you never stop learning. It is important to always strive to grow – vocally, musically and skillfully,” she says.
A moment in her career that Goroh will never forget occured in 2014 when she graced the stage in East London. “The CEO at that time of Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN) Africa came up on stage after I finished singing and offered me a recording contract. It was a great experience that I will never forget,” she recalls.
The songs on her new album are very different from what she has released in the past, says Goroh, and she plans to release it towards the end of September.
“The new album is a very big step away from the first album, both musically and the dynamics. This album is more focused and has a lot of international influence. The single I released earlier in the year titled ‘A Million Bright Torches’ features Heinz Winckler, the winner of the first season of ‘South African Idols’. I have also worked with Ntozo Mbambo and Shaun P from South Africa. Some of the artists from Nigeria who also bring their talent to my new album are Naomi Classik and Patrick Duncan,” she reveals.
The new album has something for everyone, she says, and the messages on the album aim to touch the hearts of those willing to listen.
In November, the songstress will be going to Nigeria. “I will be singing at an event as well as organising a concert to take place there soon. I am excited about going to Nigeria again, this time as a more established artist. I will surely make the most of each second,” she says.
