# Tope Alabi

Tope Alabi Listen(born 27 October 1970) is a Nigerian gospel singer, film music composer and actress. She is also known as Ore ti o common and as Agbo Jesu. can be described as one of the pacesetters of soundtracks in the Yoruba film industry and has composed over 350 soundtracks credited to her name till date. Tope Alabi obtained a Higher National Diploma in Mass Communication from the Polytechnic of Ibadan, after graduating in the year 1990, she worked as a correspondent at NTA (Nigerian Television Authority) in Ibadan. She started singing at a younger age, when she joined the choir in her local Catholic church at the age of seven. Tope has ability to produce different traditional and modern beats. She had composed and released several songs and couple with Christian slangs that made her different.

## Early life and education

Tope Alabi was born in Lagos State, Nigeria, into a family of seven. She hails from Yewa in Ogun State. Alabi developed an interest in music at a young age, participating in her church choir and singing during school events. She attended Oba Akinyele Memorial High School in Ibadan, Oyo State and obtained her West Africa School Certificate, before proceeding to the Polytechnic Ibadan, where she studied Mass Communication and graduated in 1990.

## Career

Tope Alabi began her career in the Nigerian entertainment industry in the 1990s, working as an actress and singer for the theater group Jesters International. During this period, she developed her skills in film music composition, writing, and performing soundtracks for Yoruba-language films. Her ability to craft spiritually uplifting music, often blending Yoruba proverbs and Christian teachings, earned her recognition within the industry.
In 2000, Alabi released her debut album, Ore ti o Common (Uncommon Favor), which gained significant popularity and established her as a leading gospel artist in Nigeria. The success of this album was followed by other notable releases, including Agbara Nla (2001), Angeli Mi (2007), and Yes and Amen (2018). Her songs, often delivered in a mix of Yoruba and English, emphasize themes of faith, worship, and divine intervention.

### Style and influence

Tope Alabi's music is characterized by her unique ability to combine traditional Yoruba musical elements, such as folk rhythms and storytelling, with contemporary gospel and worship music. She is known for her powerful vocal delivery and the spiritual depth of her lyrics. Alabi's music often incorporates cultural and religious references that resonate with Nigerian audiences, and she has played a key role in popularizing Yoruba gospel music beyond Nigeria.
Her influence extends to the church and gospel music communities, where she is considered a mentor to many up-and-coming gospel artists. She is also recognized for her live worship performances, which draw large audiences both in Nigeria and internationally.

## Personal life

Tope Alabi is married to Soji Alabi, her music producer. The couple has three children.
Alabi is known for her deep spirituality, often sharing her Christian faith through both her music and public appearances. Her testimony and commitment to spreading the gospel have earned her a reputation as a spiritual leader within the gospel music community.

## Controversies

In 2021, Tope Alabi faced criticism for her comments regarding a popular gospel song, "Oniduro Mi," by fellow artist Adeyinka Alaseyori. Alabi's remarks were perceived as critical of the song's lyrics, leading to a public backlash from fans and supporters of both artists. The controversy sparked debates about the interpretation of gospel music and the nature of divine names in the Yoruba language. Alabi later clarified her statements and emphasized her respect for other gospel musicians, urging unity within the gospel music community.

## Discography

Solo albums
* Ore ti o Common (2001)
* Iwe Eri (2003)
* Agbara Re NI (2005)
* Agbara Olorun (2006)
* Angeli MI (2007)
* Kokoro Igbala (2008)
* Kabiosi (2010)
* Moriyanu
* Agbelebu (2011)
* Alagbara (2012)
* Agbelebu (2013)
* Oruko Tuntun (2015)
* Omo Jesu (2017)
* Yes & Amen (2018)
* Spirit of Light (with TY Bello) (2019)
* Olorun Nbe Funmi (Iseoluwa)
* Lowo Olorun Lowa (2020)
* Unless You Bless Me (2022)
* Igbowo Eda (2023)
* Oluwa Ni: The Spontaneous Worship (2024)
* Koni(2024)

## Awards and recognition

Tope Alabi has received numerous awards for her contributions to gospel music, including:
* Gospel Artiste of the Year at the Nigeria Entertainment Awards
* Best Gospel Musician at the City People Music Awards
* Special Recognition Award for her contributions to Yoruba gospel music