Agape Gospel Band: Inception, Members, and Journey Since 2021

When Agape Gospel Band (AGB) comes to mind, you can hardly think of anything but Sebene. Its a band of outright Sebene lovers, acclaimed for some of the best Sebene tracks like ‘Amejibu Maombi’, sung in collaboration with Rehema Simfukwe.

AGB stays true to Sebene – you won’t miss a lively dance session on their live recordings, or a spirited blow of the whistle as dance takes over. The band found their footing playing Rhumba and Sebene genres which they believed was an unexplored yet a necessary element in modern-day gospel music.

Their love for dance and commitment to ministry through their harmonious voices has seen them traverse the African continent where thousands of their fans have showed up just to be a part of the experience.

Quick Facts

Inception

Agape Gospel Band was incepted in 2021, making Tanzania home to yet another powerhouse in the gospel music industry.

In an exclusive interview with Godielson Mfinanga of the Gospel Table Tanzania, JP discussed how a vision from God led him to gather international artists with the aim of spreading agape love which was inspired by Psalm 133.

Familiar with humble beginnings, he described their first gigs being weddings, funerals and graduation ceremonies but their big break would come through an 8-day conference called Upendo na Miujiza (Love and Miracles).

Being slated to perform on the first day of the conference, their breathtaking performance enabled them to receive an offer to perform on all 8 days, a confirmation that their vision was truly from God.

What started as an idea by one John Peter (JP) would become a sensation that would leave people yearning for their colorful performances. Today, Agape Gospel Band is a household name, having garnered thousands of followers both on and off social media.

Enter live recordings

In December of 2021, AGB (Agape Gospel Band) had the honor of performing during Moyo wa Ibada’s release by Paul Mwangosi. They sang through the playlist that they had prepared, unbeknownst to them that it was a live recording.

Just like that Uinuliwe Tena live recording, would usher the band into a new era. The audio recording done by Dan Mbepea and videography done by ROC (Reality of Christ) Media ensured the successful release of ‘Uinuliwe Tena’ (Be lifted Again) by the band.

On the challenges faced by the band

JP, during a sit-down with Dorcas Makoba and DJ BigFather, disclosed that older generations frown upon their genre of music ‘Sebene’ as it has always been associated with secular music. Moreover, the recent increase in bands or musical groups disbanding has also been a growing concern in their industry.

Despite the downsides, their strategy to maintain their unity has been attributed to Psalm 133 that says God commands a blessing where there is unity as well as composing their songs together following the lead of their solo guitarist during practice sessions.

John Peter Kazire: A story of Faith and Obedience

Not only is JP a seasoned bassist and vision bearer of Agape Gospel Band, but he is also a theologian by profession and a husband to one wife.

Though he keeps his family under wraps, he hails from a musical family with his younger sister being a bass player and his brother Benjamin Kazini serving as Agape Gospel Band’s music director. Who would have thought that a simple act of obedience to God’s direction would lead to a whole movement?

The more the merrier!

Agape Gospel Band started with seven members: three instrumentalists, three singers and one media tech, and has evolved to numerous singers who all share in their love for Christ and ministering His gospel to everyone.

With the growing fanbase came more responsibilities and the need for more members to join the popular gospel band. Five new members joined the group. Here is an updated list of all the members of Agape Gospel Band:

Awards and recognition

Though Agape Gospel Band has yet to receive an award, they have been nominated for the Best Artist – Gospel Music category at the Hollywood African Prestigious Awards (HAPAwards), competing alongside musical giants such as Neema Gospel Choir, Joel Lwaga, Zabron Singers, and Rose Muhando.

The band is steadily gaining recognition across East Africa and neighboring countries like Zimbabwe with more audiences growing to appreciate their exceptional talent.

Cover Image: Agape Gospel Band members pose for a photo at Kenya’s Citizen TV studio [Image source: Facebook/Agape Gospel Band]