Gospel Music Community Mourns the Passing of Aduke Gold

Gospel Music Community Mourns the Passing of Aduke Gold

Popular gospel music minister, Aduke Ajayi, widely known as Aduke Gold, has passed away. The news of her death was shared on Tuesday by fellow gospel artist Esther Igbekele, who posted a heartfelt tribute on social media, captioning a picture of Aduke Gold with, “A general has fallen. RIP.”

Aduke Gold’s death follows closely on the heels of another significant loss in the gospel music industry, that of singer Egbin Orun, who passed away on April 28, 2024. Orun’s death was confirmed by Esther Igbekele in an Instagram post, marking a difficult period for the gospel music community.

Aduke Gold was celebrated for her powerful voice and impactful music, despite the competitive nature of the industry. She rose to fame with her breakthrough single, “Nitori Ogo” (translated as ‘Because of Glory’), which was part of her widely acclaimed eight-track album that garnered viral attention on social media.

Her journey to success was marked by resilience and perseverance. In an Instagram post, Aduke Gold shared the story of her humble beginnings, from selling slippers, yam, and fried fish to enduring various hardships that shaped her music career. She recounted how she once packed fish heads at a frozen foods store and learned to cook with firewood during kerosene shortages. Orphaned at the age of four and battling severe vertigo, her personal challenges only deepened her faith and commitment to her music.

In addition to her musical achievements, Aduke Gold was highly educated. She earned a degree in History and International Relations from Lagos State University, made possible through a scholarship from Hon. Opeyemi Bamidele, then Commissioner for Youths and Sports in Lagos State. She also held an advanced degree in Child Psychology, a Diploma in Montessori Education from the UK, and several other qualifications in Special Education, Aquaculture, Cake Making, Cookery and Decoration, Music Rudiment, Business, and Piano.

Beyond her music, Aduke Gold was deeply passionate about working with children with special needs, including those with autism, cerebral palsy, and dyslexia. Her dedication to this cause further solidified her legacy as not just a musician, but a compassionate advocate for those in need.

The gospel music community and her fans around the world mourn the loss of Aduke Gold, remembering her for both her musical contributions and her inspiring life story.