Nigerian gospel artists and Christian leaders have joined the global outpouring of grief following the death of legendary American worship leader Ron Kenoly, who passed away on Tuesday at the age of 81.
The late gospel icon’s death has sparked emotional tributes from prominent Nigerian ministers, many of whom credit his music with shaping their worship journeys and ministries.
Renowned gospel singer Nathaniel Bassey reflected on Kenoly’s generational impact, describing him as an inspiration to psalmists around the world and noting that his songs formed the foundation of his own worship upbringing.
Fellow gospel minister Dunsin Oyekan shared a tribute video of Kenoly, describing him as a “General” in the faith and marking his passing as the end of an era in gospel worship.
Christian author and pastor Wale Oke delivered an extensive tribute, describing Kenoly as a true worshipper marked by humility, spiritual depth, and lifelong devotion.
Oke recalled hosting Kenoly on several occasions in Nigeria and abroad, praising his ability to usher nations into an atmosphere of worship and reverence.
Gospel singer Ada Ehi also honoured the late minister, describing him as “saint triumphant” and thanking him for blessing multiple generations through music.
Singer Moses Bliss reflected on Kenoly’s enduring legacy, noting that his impact extended far beyond songs into lives, altars, and nations transformed through worship.
Other Nigerian gospel artistes and ministers including Sunmisola Agbebi, Yinka Okeleye, Ebuka Songs, Stephen Ogah, Ope Ajayi, and Tim Godfrey also shared tributes on social media.
Ron Kenoly rose to global prominence in the 1990s with live worship albums, including Lift Him Up, one of the fastest-selling praise albums of its time. His 1997 album Welcome Home earned a Gospel Music Association Dove Award for Praise and Worship Album.
Born on December 6, 1944, in Coffeyville, Kansas, Kenoly studied music at Alameda College and later earned a Master of Divinity and a Doctorate of Ministry in sacred music.
Before dedicating his life fully to worship ministry, he served in the United States Air Force and participated in various band projects.
Widely regarded as a giant of contemporary Christian worship, Ron Kenoly leaves behind a lasting global legacy—one etched into songs, churches, and generations of worshippers who continue to sing what he helped birth.
