Gospel Singer Mabel Okyere Declares Amakye Dede’s ‘Sufre Wo Nyame’ a Gospel Song with a Divine Message
Popular Ghanaian gospel musician Mabel Okyere has stirred conversations in the music community by affirming that the legendary highlife hit “Sufre Wo Nyame” by Abrantie Amakye Dede is indeed a gospel song at heart. According to Okyere, despite its highlife rhythm, the song’s message aligns closely with Christian values and the Word of God.
In an interview with Joy Prime’s Roselyn Felli on the Changes show, Mabel passionately explained why she believes the song deserves recognition within gospel circles. “If you listen to the words in the song, you can see that it’s gospel. It’s not just a song — it contains the word of God,” she noted.
A Spiritual Message Behind a Highlife Tune
“Sufre Wo Nyame,” which translates from Twi to mean “Cry and Call on Your God”, is widely known as a classic in Ghana’s highlife music history. However, Mabel Okyere emphasizes that beyond its instrumentation and genre, the lyrics carry a powerful spiritual message. She believes the song encourages listeners to persevere, pray, and rely on God — messages central to the Christian faith.
She explained that many young people today are rushing toward success without understanding the importance of patience, process, and divine timing. “Sufre Wo Nyame speaks directly to that,” she said. “It inspires the youth to stay grounded in faith, trust in God, and know that everyone’s journey to success is different.”
A Worship Refix Inspired by Faith
Mabel revealed that the first time she heard the song, she was struck by how divinely inspired the lyrics felt. This spiritual connection moved her to create a worship version of the song, making it suitable for church settings and gospel music platforms.
“I said that the words in the song need to enter the house of God because they are from God,” she shared. “So why can’t I do a worship version so it can be sung in church? That’s how I got into the studio to record it.”
Her rendition has since been embraced by many churches and Christian audiences, with little to no criticism. According to Mabel, this is proof that the song resonates with believers and reflects the core values of the gospel. “It’s not a worldly song,” she added. “It’s a song of encouragement, hope, and faith in God.”
Approval from Amakye Dede
One of the major concerns in the music industry is copyright and permission when artists remake or sample original works. When asked if she sought permission from Amakye Dede before releasing her version, Mabel admitted that she informed him after the release.
“Yes, I did speak to him,” she confirmed. “But it was after I had released the song. When I told him, he said he had already heard it and had no issue with it. But he added that if I hadn’t told him, he would have been disappointed in me.”
Amakye Dede’s positive reaction to the remake highlights his openness and appreciation for the message of the song transcending genres.
The Timeless Message of “Sufre Wo Nyame”
One of the most impactful lines in the song, as Mabel pointed out, emphasizes the temporary nature of material possessions. The song reminds listeners that at the end of life, all worldly riches and achievements will be left behind — a reflection that aligns closely with biblical teachings on humility and spiritual focus.
This message, according to Mabel, is a crucial lesson in today’s world, where many are consumed by material success and lose sight of the importance of spiritual growth and endurance.
Blurring the Line Between Highlife and Gospel
Mabel Okyere’s views challenge the long-held perception that highlife music is inherently secular. She argues that the genre of a song should not disqualify its spiritual message. “Just because an artist performs highlife music doesn’t mean their songs can’t be godly,” she insisted.
This perspective invites a broader conversation about how music is classified in Ghana and across Africa, especially as more artists blend genres to reach diverse audiences. A Gospel Message in Unexpected Places
Mabel Okyere’s bold declaration that Amakye Dede’s “Sufre Wo Nyame” is a gospel song opens the door for more inclusive interpretations of music with spiritual messages. Her worship version of the song has not only reignited interest in the classic but has also brought its message into churches, prayer sessions, and worship gatherings.
As gospel and highlife continue to evolve, her actions reflect a growing recognition that faith can be expressed across musical genres, and a divine message can be found even in the most unexpected places.
