‘I’m into music to promote religious tolerance in North’

Kaduna-based gospel music sensation, Raymond Joseph, has disclosed that he ventured into the music industry in a bid to promote religious tolerance, unity and peaceful coexistence in the North.

The music star who stressed that he is determined to ensure peaceful coexistence among the different tribes, languages, peoples and religious divide across the country, emphasised that his first target is Kaduna State which has experienced recurrent religious tensions and crises.

Raymond described music as a universal language capable of bridging religious, ethnic and cultural differences, insisting that his songs would encourage mutual respect and understanding among people of different faiths.

“I strongly believe that music transcends religious, ethnic, and cultural boundaries. I want to use it as a tool for promoting peace, unity, mutual respect and religious tolerance, particularly in Kaduna, where we have experienced religious tensions and crises,” he said.

The Afro-gospel singer, rapper and contemporary worship artiste, popularly known as Wonder Boy,

said his interest in music gradually developed from playing the keyboard to writing songs and eventually singing and rapping.

Speaking in an interview in Kaduna, with Arewa PUNCH on Monday, Wonder Boy disclosed that his passion for music began at the age of 14 when he started playing the piano before he subsequently graduated into

writing songs in September 2024, after which he officially released his first songs on February 18, 2025.

“I started playing the piano when I was 14 years old. I developed an interest in music through playing the keyboard, and I started writing songs in September 2024. From there, I picked an interest in singing and rapping before releasing my songs on February 18, 2025,” he said.

Reflecting on his childhood, the artiste described growing up as an interesting journey marked by experiences and lessons that shaped his character and outlook on life.

“Growing up was an interesting journey filled with different experiences and lessons. Like every other person, I had my challenges, but those experiences helped shape my character, values and perspectives about life.

“My upbringing taught me discipline, humility, patience and the importance of staying focused on my dreams,” he added.

Raymond, who combines Afro-gospel, rap and contemporary worship, credited his parents, particularly his mother, for their encouragement and support throughout his musical journey.

According to him, his mother’s prayers, advice and belief in his abilities have been instrumental in keeping him focused despite the uncertainties associated with pursuing a career in music.

“My parents have been supportive in their own way, but my mum deserves special recognition. She has been a major source of encouragement and strength throughout my journey.

“Her prayers, advice and belief in me all contributed greatly to where I am today. Even when the journey seemed uncertain, her support reminded me to keep believing in myself. I am truly grateful to her,” he stressed.

On balancing his education with his growing music career, the singer said it required discipline, sacrifices and effective time management.

He explained that combining lectures, academic assignments, rehearsals and other musical engagements was sometimes challenging but of all these helped him develop commitment and perseverance.

• Travellers stranded for hours after crashes block Kaduna-Abuja highway
• Kaduna-Kano rail project hits 90%, inauguration set for December
• FG targets December 3 Inauguration for northern rail projects

“Combining academics with music was not always easy, but I understood that both were important aspects of my development. It required discipline, proper time management and sacrifices.

“There were times I had to balance lectures, assignments, rehearsals and other musical commitments. I learned to prioritise my responsibilities and make the best use of my time,” he said.

The artiste, however, dismissed the suggestion that pursuing music would require him to abandon his academic qualifications, insisting that education and music could complement each other.

“I believe education and music can complement each other. What I studied has contributed to my personal development and has equipped me with valuable skills that I can also apply in my music career.

“However, music is a passion I intend to pursue seriously. I see myself growing in the music industry while also making good use of the knowledge I acquired academically,” he added.

Speaking on his recent concert in Kaduna, tagged: “Resound”, Wonder Boy described the event as a memorable experience that provided an opportunity to connect with his audience and showcase his musical creativity.

He said the audience’s response, love, and support made the concert successful, adding that the experience motivated him to pursue bigger opportunities.

“Resound concert in Kaduna was a beautiful and memorable experience. It was an opportunity to connect with my audience, share my music and create lasting memories.

“The love, energy and support I received were overwhelming. I consider it a success, not just because of the event itself, but because of the impact and connections it created,” he said.

Asked whether he had any regrets since venturing into music, the singer said he preferred to see his experiences as learning opportunities rather than reasons for regret.

“Honestly, I wouldn’t say I have any major regrets. Every experience, whether good or challenging, has taught me something valuable.

“There are moments I wish I had started certain things earlier or made some decisions differently, but I understand that growth comes with learning. Rather than dwelling on regrets, I choose to appreciate the journey and focus on becoming better,” he said.

On his experience in the music industry so far, Raymond acknowledged the challenges of establishing a career but said his passion, determination and willingness to learn continued to drive him.

“It has been a journey of growth, learning, sacrifice and determination. The music industry is not always an easy space, especially when you are trying to establish yourself, but the passion keeps me going,” he said.

He advised aspiring musicians and admirers of his style to remain original, believe in their abilities and consistently improve their craft.

“My advice to everyone who admires my style of music is to be original, believe in their talent and never be afraid to express themselves.

“Music is not just about having a good voice; it’s also about passion, creativity and the message you want to communicate.

“Stay consistent, keep learning, work hard on your craft and, most importantly, don’t allow people’s opinions to discourage you. Be patient with your growth because every great journey takes time. Always remember that your uniqueness is your greatest strength,” he said.