Meet THE-HMP: Ijebu Igbo–Born Gospel Afrobeat Artiste Redefining Faith Through Sound

Balogun Oluwaferanmi, professionally known as THE-HMP, is an emerging gospel Afrobeat singer from Ijebu Igbo, Ogun State, whose music journey is rooted in childhood passion, deep faith, and personal conviction.

THE-HMP discovered his love for music at a very young age while in primary school. Alongside friends, he would create rhythms by beating tables and composing spontaneous songs. According to him, music became more than a hobby when he realized that everyday conversations, church messages, and even words from books naturally transformed into melodies in his mind. He often recorded these songs quietly on his phone to preserve both tune and lyrics.

“I knew music was my calling because anything I hear around me becomes a song,” he said.

Raised by his grandmother, THE-HMP credits her discipline and spiritual guidance for shaping his character. She regularly took him to church, where his interest in music deepened as he observed live instrumentation and choir harmonies. Rather than becoming wayward, he found purpose and structure through music and faith.

Before fully embracing gospel music, THE-HMP once pursued hip-hop under the stage name Zeeboy. However, a personal spiritual awakening led him to abandon the genre.

“I realized hip-hop wasn’t aligned with my faith. I chose to walk away and follow God fully,” he explained.

Today, THE-HMP blends Afrobeat rhythms with gospel messages, a balance he says comes naturally due to his musical background. His goal is to create music that is unique, classic, and spiritually grounded, even as he continues to grow in the industry.

His biggest inspiration and support system, he says, is God and himself, followed closely by family, friends, and relatives. Musically, he is mentored by his producer and CEO of Espiano Studio, while his spiritual direction comes from his pastor.

THE-HMP recently released his debut gospel single titled “God Is My Life”, marking his official entry into gospel music. The song reflects his belief in God as the ultimate source, purpose, and sustainer of life.

“I want listeners to pick meaning from the lyrics, even from the title. God is my life, He’s the center of my thoughts, actions, and existence,” he said.

Encouraging young people who worship God through music, THE-HMP advised sincerity and wholehearted devotion, noting that spiritual rewards outweigh worldly gains.

Looking ahead, the singer remains optimistic. In the next five years, he envisions himself firmly established in the music industry, with aspirations to collaborate with gospel singer Alayo.

Beyond fame, THE-HMP says his ultimate goal is to leave behind a legacy that will never be spoken of negatively. He also acknowledged the unwavering support of his partner, whom he described as the person who stood by him when he had nothing.

The inspiration for his latest song, he revealed, came from deep reflection about transitioning fully into gospel music, an idea he felt was best introduced at the beginning of a new year.

With faith as his foundation and music as his mission, THE-HMP represents a new generation of gospel Afrobeat artistes using sound as a tool for worship, purpose, and positive influence.

Fast-rising Nigerian singer Oluwaferanmi Balogun, popularly known as THE_HMP, has released a brand-new single titled “God Is My Life” The song is now available across all social media and streaming platforms.

Kindly follow him on Instagram and all social media @thehmpofficial