7 Unique Musical Journeys: How We Discover the Songs That Shape Us.

Music has a unique way of weaving itself into our personal stories. Whether it’s the song that played during a life-changing moment or the genre that became a comforting companion, music is more than sound; it’s memory, emotion, and definitely identity.

We spoke to seven passionate music lovers who shared their personal journeys into their favourite genres and how these sounds came to define parts of their lives.

1. Amara: Christian Rap / Hip-Hop

“ Christian Hip-Hop and Rap taught me to speak up - unapologetically”

Growing up in Lagos, Amara found solace in the rhythms and rhymes of hip-hop. At first, it was the beats that drew her in, but as she grew older, it became the passionate stories of resilience, rebellion, and hope that made Christian hip-hop her lifeline. For Amara, Christian hip-hop isn’t just music; it’s a movement that gave her the courage to own her narrative in Christ.

2. Jamal – Gospel Jazz

“ Gospel Jazz taught me how to listen, not just hear.”

Jamal’s love for jazz came unexpectedly. As a teenager, he stumbled upon his grandfather’s vinyl collection. One quiet evening, he played and instantly became hooked. To Jamal , the music sounded like conversation without words - it was a Spirit to Spirit conversation, that gave him a new perspective as regards spiritual reflection.

3. Chloe – Indie Gospel Music

“It felt like home.”

Battling anxiety , Chloe found comfort in the soft melodies of indie gospel - offering  her a quiet refuge from the world’s chaos. Gradually, Indie gospel became a safe space for Chloe to breathe and simply be - finding solace in God through this genre.

4. Emeka – Afro gospel Music.

“Afro gospel is where my culture lives.”

For Emeka, Afro gospel isn’t just a genre but a celebration of who he is. Born in Nigeria but raised in the UK, he often felt caught between two worlds and Afro gospel  helped him reconnect with his roots. “Afro gospel brought me home, even when I was far away,” he says.

5. Daniel – Country Gospel Music.

“Country Gospel Music saved me.”

Daniel referred to country gospel music as boring until one stressful night when he stumbled on Curtis Chapman collection . “The calm, the precision; it slowed my racing mind.” What started as background music for the word-study sessions turned into a genuine love for the genre. Today, country gospel music is his daily reset button, not only for its honest stories of redemption but for the peace it provides in a fast-paced world - reminding him of Christ’s never failing comfort through the heartfelt lyrics and testimonies.

6. Samson – Contemporary Christian Music

“ CCM helps me connect deeply with my emotions .”

For Samson, CCM is pure joy. He grew up praising and worshipping in the living room to the sounds of Kirk Franklin with his sisters. CCM is the music that brings people together with no deep analysis, just shared happiness - that’s encouraging and uplifting.

7. Dayo – Traditional Gospel

“For me, it’s twofold. I get to honor God while staying deeply connected to my heritage.”

Dayo finds traditional music as a heartfelt expression of cultural love. The rhythmic call-and-response, the unshakable lyrics, theological truths, and the rich ties to his roots continue to draw him in. With every note, he finds new ways to fall in love with the sounds that shaped him and bring hope to moments in his life.

From rebellion to healing, from cultural roots to quiet reflection, each person’s story is a reminder that music is deeply personal. It doesn’t just fill the silence, it shapes who we are. Whatever the genre, there’s always a song waiting to meet us exactly where we are.

What’s your story?

Share in the comments what your favourite genre is and how did you fell in love with it?