Olodumare by Joel Lwaga: A Song Review

Olodumare is yet another lyrical masterpiece by Joel Lwaga, exuding the artist’s long-refined proficiency in gospel music. It comes as no surprise how the song has won audience across the spectrum, getting acclamation even from secular listeners.

The song Olodumare is a celebratory song in acknowledgement of the greatness of God, seen not only in His blessings, but enduring mercies, grace and protection. By virtue of this, many find the song relatable.

Speaking musical aesthetics, Olodumare by Joel Lwaga is downright savoury, a refreshing tune to the soul. The song takes on an African pop style, which blended with Joel’s signature barritone, brings out an exquisite piece of music.

Facts for nerds

Song review

Meaning and origin of Olodumare

Olodumare is a Yoruba word for God, meaning Creator, and Lord of the heavens, among others.

There have been other songs sharing the title Olodumare, including Ada Ehi’s released in December 2020, and Labisi’s in September 2023.

Scripture backing

The song Olodumare by Joel Lwaga is built on several themes, including God’s sustenance, mercy, grace, and protection.

On the first verse, Joel recounts on how God has prospered him, to the extent that haters, the modern day connotation of enemies, admire him. Scripture encourages believers to love and pray for enemies.

Olodumare by Joel Lwaga keeps off slandering of haters or even asking for their destruction as is commonplace with some artists.

On the chorus, Joel acknowledges God’s protection as a strong fortress, and that he takes pride in nothing but Him. He adds on that the schemes of the envious are futile against him.

While envy and malice from people are inevitable, a believer must not stray into hating or slandering enemies in the name of god, but instead love and pray for such people. It is refreshing that Olodumare by Joel Lwaga steers clear of such hatred.

One of the best parts of the song is the second verse, where Joel Lwaga shines light on the unending mercies and grace of God in the face of his many falls and rises. These are some of the defining characters of God.

With God’s goodness, mercies, sustenance and protection, Joel Lwaga asserts there’s no falling down. However, it must be recognized that some troubles amd trials must come, but victory is assured for the believer, for Christ overcame.

Covers and renditions

Multiple artists have put out covers for the song Olodumare by Joel Lwaga:

• Glitch Africa – Olodumare & The Way – This live rendition was sung by Joel Lwaga live at Glitch Gospel, a subsidiary of Glitch Africa. Joel Lwaga is the first East African artist to feature on the platform.
• Rap version by Izo Bizness, Maarifa and Fivara
• A cover by Onesmo Lukwele

Audience

The song Olodumare is a good fit for entertainment and dance.

Have you listened to the song yet? Let us know what you think in the comments.

Check out our series on gospel artists here. Thank you for reading!