Niyi Adams is a saxophonist, ordained minister, a songwriter and music producer. A long-time resident of the DC area, Rev. Adams ministers at numerous services, concerts, revival meetings and conferences. He has produced three CDs, 'Caution: God at Work,' 'Chronicles,' 'Trust in Jesus', and a live DVD 'Intimate Worship Experience'. Rev Adams is a member of Evangel Assembly of God where Rev. St. Clair Mitchell is the Senior Pastor. He discusses his musical career with the Gospel Music Examiner.
GME: Tell the readers a little about your musical journey.
NA: In 1989 I joined a church in Lagos when a friend said they needed a saxophone player. I had been playing for six months. My friend insisted that I play and while playing at the church I got saved. I left the church and joined a secular band but did not feel fulfilled, so I cast myself on the Lord. I felt I couldn’t go back to the church because I was so ashamed. The pastor sought me out and I was restored and served as Minister of Music for five years.
GME: When did you learn to play?
NA: I had no formal training but I have recieved lessons over time. I have taken classes over a period of time with perforning artists, about four people and ten lessons. I give all credit to God. The skill that I have is way beyond the work that I have put in, although I have received some teaching over the years.
GME: Who are your major influences?
NA: Quincy Jones for production, and Stevie Wonder for songwriting. My musical influences are Kirk Whalum, Gerald Albright and Grover Washington, Jr.
GME: You migrated to this country from Nigeria and now you live in the DC metro area which is home to many talented artists. How are things different musically in Nigeria?
NA: When I lived in Nigeria, music was not well developed. Being a musician was not considered a serious profession. Things have changed somewhat. The new generation are really feeling encouraged. Churches are now big enough to employ musicians and pay salaries. There is a higher demand for music and there is a market. Now it makes sense to be a musician.
GME: What do you want to accomplish through your music?
NA: I want every song that I write, produce or perform to bring awareness of who God is and cause the lost to want to have a relationship with Christ. I want to present God so the only sensible response is to love Him back. That’s the whole point of worship, a place of intimacy with God so we want to be like Him. That’s the ultimate expression of love.
GME: You are a minister of the gospel as well as a musician. How do you merge the two?
NA: My music is a vehicle for communicating the gospel. That’s all I play, the gospel. There’s no need to connect the two because they do the same thing. My music is my preaching and my preaching can be musical.
GME: Any last thoughts?
NA: I believe that what we are missing in the world today is love. That’s why Christ’s words in John 13:35 are so relevant today. We can do a lot better in the area of love. Some see Christians as judgmental and I would love to see that reputation change. That change would be loving people.
For bookings, and to learn more about Niyi Adams, visit his website. His CDs and the DVD may be purchased through Amazon.com and CD Baby.
Niyi Adams will perform at the Holy Flock Annual Cantata at the Best Western in Lanham, MD Sunday, May 15th, at 2:00 p.m.
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