In a fast-paced world filled with distractions and constant noise, it’s challenging to find moments of peace and purpose to start the day on the right note. Beginning your morning with intention, however, can create a foundation for growth and reflection. This is where Theophilus Oghenewogaga’s album, Devotion by Theo Vol. 1, comes in – a meditative journey that invites listeners into a serene, purposeful start to the day.
Devotion by Theo Vol 1, the album by Theophilus Oghenewogaga, is a profound musical experience crafted to provide a daily spiritual journey for the listener. With its serene yet powerful sounds, this 24-minute album invites you to start your day in a reflective and devotional state. Oghenewogaga’s carefully chosen worship songs provide a peaceful space for listeners to reflect on their faith and find tranquillity before their day starts.
The project’s soothing and ambient soundscape makes it a splendid choice for early morning devotion, helping listeners to begin their day with a sense of purpose. The album’s instrumental arrangements, all played by Oghenewogaga on piano, ambient pads, and violin, create a rich texture that makes it feel crafted with reverence and humility.
Track-by-track overview
Each track in Oghenewogaga’s Devotion depicts a unique stage of his spiritual journey, starting calmly and culminating in a powerful crescendo, mirroring the unfolding of a spiritual morning routine.
The album opens with a well-known worship tune, “In the Morning”, set in D Major. This soft, understated intro helps the listeners find their personal quiet space. The track gently guides listeners towards seeking the Creator at the start of their day, even before the morning routine begins. This song sets a contemplative mood, prompting believers to pause and reflect in a space of quiet reverence.
Remaining in D Major, the next track, “Our Father in Heaven”, shifts the listener’s focus upwards, directing thoughts toward God in heaven. The song’s reverent tone grows stronger as it urges worshipers to bow before God and praise His name. This piece fosters an atmosphere of reverence, prompting a sincere moment of homage and honouring the Creator with simplicity and depth.
Introducing “Who is Like Unto Thee” in E Flat Major marks a powerful shift in the album’s direction – a line that reminds the believer of God’s unique, unmatched holiness and His awe-inspiring deeds. The music amplifies the proclamation, fostering an emotional setting that invites contemplation of the Creator’s greatness and distinct character.
Maintaining the same musical style, “The Most High Reigneth” echoes the themes of awe and adoration found in the previous work. This track prompts listeners to contemplate God’s sovereignty, asserting His absolute reign over all creation. The music’s melody and arrangement convey the powerful message that God’s presence and power are not just superior, but directly involved in the lives of those who believe. This song portrays God as powerful and loving, and is always present, enhancing the listeners’ understanding of the Almighty.
As a solo violinist in a live Performance with Nathaniel Bassey. The rights to the music belong to Pst Nathaniel Bassey. Follow this link to watch the music video.
The transition to E Major in “Take Glory Father” increases the feeling of praise. Oghenewogaga guides the listener through a familiar version of the “Gloria Patri,” a traditional Christian praise song honouring the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This piece has the character of a doxology, giving God unqualified adoration and calling on listeners to bless His name with all their hearts. The lyrics, “Take Glory Father, Son, and Holy Ghost”, effectively combine simplicity with theological depth, serving as a moving reminder of the Trinity’s unity and magnificence. The song’s soothing, embracing music fosters a sense of quiet reflection and joy.
The steadfast love of the Lord, a central theme in the Bible, is celebrated in the track, “The Steadfast Love” which retains the E Major. Inspired by Lamentations 3:22-23: “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness”, the song’s melody is soft yet filled with purpose, encouraging listeners to internalise God’s unwavering love as they start their day.
The album ends with “Command the Morning”, a high-energy bonus track that encourages listeners to start their day with confidence and belief. This track culminates in a crescendo, inspiring active declarations of blessings for the day. The music’s rising intensity encourages listeners to pause and ponder their day, reinforcing their intentions and seeking direction. The piece concludes the album on a powerful note, leaving listeners feeling spiritually empowered and ready for the day ahead.
The artistry and message of Theophilus Oghenewogaga
Theophilus Oghenewogaga’s music is imbued with a deep sense of purpose, reflecting his talent as a musician and his dedication as a worship leader. Each note, chord progression, and key shift is crafted to deepen the listener’s spiritual connection. Not only is he a skilled musician (playing piano, ambient pads, and violin), he also took on the roles of producer, mixer, and mastering engineer for this album. This album uniquely captures Oghenewogaga’s personal and spiritual growth.
Oghenewogaga’s commitment to his craft and calling is evident both in the quality of his music and in his dedication to using his talent to uplift others. A classically trained gospel music minister, he has achieved multiple certifications from the Associate Board Royal School of Music in England, including a Diploma in Violin Performance and a Grade 8 in singing, which he achieved with Distinction. Under the mentorship of Prof. D.K. Olukoya, founder and General Overseer of Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM), Theophilus has developed his musical and spiritual gifts, becoming a trusted worship leader in various gospel circles.
He has performed alongside gospel stars like Nathaniel Bassey and Sinach, sharing the stage at events designed to inspire worship and spiritual growth. His reach spans across nations, uniting believers of various backgrounds in worship, such as an event in Jerusalem led by Pastor Nathaniel Bassey. He is currently the Music Director of MFM Lekki Youth Church, a major youth congregation in Africa.
Devotion is an invitation to experience God’s presence, not just through songs, but in the calm of your morning. Theophilus Oghenewogaga’s music offers a dedicated space for reflection, reverence, and empowerment on each track. This album effortlessly fits into a daily devotional practice, fostering peace and purpose as you begin your day.
Devotion provides a reflective, prayerful journey in less than 30 minutes, ideal for deepening one’s connection with God. This shows the profound impact music can have on worship and personal change. This album by Oghenewogaga emphasises the importance of quiet, spiritual reflection at the start of each day, creating an atmosphere of peace and faith for the day ahead.
By Segun Martins Fajemisin
© Feferity Media
Photo/Video credits: Theophilus Oghenewogaga