PERSONAL BACKGROUND
Giobipraise whose real name is GIOBARI AZOBU is an indigene of OGONI in Rivers State of Nigeria. Born on August 23 1978. GIOBARI is the second of a set of twins making her the third child of her parents. Holds a degree in Public Administration and Nursing Sciences respectively.
SPIRITUAL JOURNEY
It was in Methodist church of Nigeria were my parent’s worship that I also grew up spiritually. As a child, I was always active in all church activities that concerned my peers especially, in Sunday school such as bible quiz, recitation, winning prizes home for my local church. I was also a member of the children choir but not an active one.
After my secondary school, things didn’t go as expected and the only option that I had was to surrender to Jesus. That was in my early 20s. Thereafter, i was instructed by the Holy Spirit to locate a praying church that led me to MFM. I engaged myself in full time evangelism for Jesus which is where I am till date. Surrendering to Jesus is the best thing that has ever happened to my life. The Lord took over my battle and grant me victory till date.
Life was very difficult especially after giving my life to Jesus. Acts of apostle’s chapter 27 was my strength. Despite the difficulties experienced by the apostles, they still sailed through. Though my journey was rough but the Lord saw me through.
My anchor scripture- Isaiah 61
MUSICAL JOURNEY
My musical journey is very different from usual as I never plan for it at all. Yes, I didn’t but God always did even before I was formed. Like he (God) said to Jeremiah in the book of Jeremiah 1:5, he knew me before I was born. As a child, I always sing new songs. It has become my habit. Once I opened my mouth to sing it’s always a brand-new song. But I never knew it will bring me this far.
It was hard for me to believe when the Lord told me it was time for my singing habits to become a ministry. At first I thought it was a joke but the situation became though that I had to surrender.
My story is not far from that of Moses in the Bible. I used to have the impression that I can not sing, that I don’t have a good singing voice which is one of the basic reasons I presented to God. I practically looked out for someone who could do the singing while I do the writing but unfortunately, I ended up provoking the Master even more. To cut the long story short, he made me to realize that I must carry out my duty for the kingdom which is music ministration.
At this point, the Lord pointed out Sinach to me and showed me his grace upon her, assuring me that I will succeed.
My voice was very rusted, not clear at all but thanks to my first recording studio experience whereby I was to undergo some vocal exercises before recording.
My first studio recording experience was super funny as I had very little knowledge of music recording, coupled with poor coaching. Still God will always be God.
The Lord himself (Holy Spirit) has been my source of inspiration and nothing else. Thus, I don’t write songs. As a matter of fact, the Lord put every single song I sing in my mouth and guide me on how it should be produced.
CHALLENGES AND OVERCOMING ADVERSITIES
As an emerging artiste, and with the kind that I am, it was almost impossible for me to survive in the industry. Ranging from music production, promotion and more worst, is the disappointment faced by family (local church) and friends. The scripture most be fulfilled. (Lay not your trust on man for the arm of flesh will fail you). I had zero support from anyone except my immediate family. Many times, I have sat down to rethink and to be sure that I wasn’t mistaken that God called me. But you see, God is ever faithful. Faith has become my strength in the midst of many trials. There was a time when I decided to take a break. I was going to announce this to my team but mysteriously, as I stepped into my studio an acute cough that has refused to be treated even after taking several medication left me permanently. And immediately, the Lord baptized me with great inspirations that has continued to wax the team stronger and stronger.
Now I have no worries at all, I just have to focus on my assignments and let God do he’s since he alone knows what when, and how.
