Veteran contemporary gospel artist Daddy Owen has called upon Willy Paul, a renowned Kenyan musician, to return to gospel music, a genre where Owen believes Willy Paul’s extraordinary talent truly shines.
In a heartfelt post on his X (formerly Twitter) feed, Daddy Owen praised Willy Paul, born Wilson Abubakar Radido, for his unique musical sensibility. The 42-year-old gospel icon revealed that Willy Paul had recently contributed to fine-tuning a yet-to-be-released project, which Owen now regards as a masterpiece.
“In the studio working on my new project, then kidogo Willy Pozze opens the door akaskia (then heard) what I am doing,” Owen wrote. “He asked me to change some stuff on the project, now it sounds great.”
The ‘Vanity’ hitmaker concluded his post with a direct appeal to Willy Paul, affectionately known as Pozze, to consider returning to gospel music. “Willy Paul is one of the most talented artists in Kenya, arudi tu gospel (let him just come back to gospel).”
Willy Paul’s Remarkable Career Journey
Willy Paul’s journey in the music industry is nothing short of inspiring. He burst into the limelight with his 2010 debut hit, Rabuka, a song that established him as a promising new voice in Kenyan gospel music. His growing popularity saw him win the coveted Groove Awards Best New Act title in 2012 and Male Artist of the Year in 2013. In 2014, he clinched the Talanta Awards Best Performer accolade, solidifying his position as one of the industry’s brightest stars.
A defining moment in Willy Paul’s career came in 2015 with Sitolia, a powerful collaboration with gospel singer Gloria Muliro. The song not only became a fan favorite but also propelled Willy Paul to national and international fame. In a past interview, Willy Paul described Muliro as his “spiritual mum,” reflecting on her influence during his early gospel days.
However, the artist’s career trajectory shifted dramatically in recent years as he transitioned to secular music. Songs like Jigi Jigi and Lala Salama showcased his versatility and garnered him a massive fan base, but his move also sparked controversy among fans and industry stakeholders.
Daddy Owen’s Call for Reflection
Daddy Owen’s recent appeal reflects a growing sentiment among some fans and gospel music enthusiasts who miss Willy Paul’s impact in the gospel scene. Owen highlighted Pozze’s ability to create music that resonates deeply with audiences, suggesting that gospel music provides the best platform for his exceptional artistry.
The multi-talented Willy Paul, who is also a dancer, entrepreneur, and songwriter, has often faced criticism for his pivot to secular music. Still, he has maintained that his journey is his own, even as fans and mentors like Daddy Owen express hope for his return to his roots.
The Ongoing Debate
The debate over Willy Paul’s musical direction has been ongoing since his transition from gospel to secular music. In a past interview, he addressed concerns about his choices, emphasizing the independence that comes with adulthood. “Your mum will raise you, but when you grow up, they cannot control you, but they remain your mum,” he said, referencing his spiritual mother, Gloria Muliro.
While Willy Paul has enjoyed success in the secular space, Daddy Owen’s comments open a window for introspection. Will Willy Paul heed the call to return to gospel music? Only time will tell.
As fans and the music community await Pozze’s next move, one thing remains certain: Willy Paul’s talent continues to shine, whether in gospel or secular music. For now, Daddy Owen’s plea serves as a poignant reminder of the impact gospel music can have, not just on artists, but on the lives of those who listen.
