How Worship Collectives and Gospel Playlists Are Soundtracking Easter in Africa

Globally, over 800,000 gospel playlists were created on Spotify during the past three Easter weekends. This reveals how listeners around the world turn to gospel music as both a spiritual anchor and a celebratory soundtrack. Among these, audiences across Sub-Saharan Africa contributed more than 70,000 playlists, highlighting the region’s deep connection to worship music and its evolving role in digital listening culture during this sacred season.

Global Worship Collectives Still Reign Supreme in SSA Gospel Streaming

As African gospel steadily expands its global footprint, Spotify data shows that ensemble-based worship collectives dominated Easter streaming across Sub-Saharan Africa. US and Australian groups like Maverick City Music, Elevation Worship, and Hillsong Worship continued to top charts, reflecting the powerful influence of global worship movements on local audiences. Songs like Jireh and Firm Foundation (He Won’t) have performed well for the third consecutive Easter, showing a strong appetite for emotionally charged, live-recorded tracks that capture the intimacy and energy of a Sunday service.

While international groups held a strong presence, homegrown ensembles also made significant waves across the continent. South African powerhouses Joyous Celebration and Spirit of Praise, both known for their unique blend of traditional and contemporary gospel, remain firm favourites. They are the only African collectives in the top 10 most-streamed gospel tracks during Easter and have become pillars of the African gospel music scene. Their performances, marked by exceptional vocals and innovative arrangements, continue to transcend cultural and geographical boundaries. They are captivating audiences far beyond South Africa’s borders.

Tracks like Ndenzel’ Uncedo Hymn 377 (Live) and Wenzile (Live) by Joyous Celebration, along with Thath’Indawo (Live) by Spirit of Praise, reflect the enduring appeal of anthemic, live-session recordings that mirror the communal spirit of church gatherings across the continent.

Curated Worship: The Rise of Gospel Playlists

Beyond just individual songs, many listeners across the region are turning to curated gospel playlists. Spotify data reveals that more than 70,000 gospel-themed playlists were created across Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, and South Africa over the past three years. This playlist culture is transforming gospel engagement, making the genre more accessible and reflective of personal and communal moments.

A Steady Soundtrack of Faith

Across Sub-Saharan Africa, gospel music remains a powerful soundtrack to Easter. It is a season of reflection, celebration, and community. Whether through the soaring harmonies of worship collectives or the ease of curated playlists, gospel continues to unite listeners in faith and joy.

See the list of top 10 below

Top 10 most streamed gospel songs

Averly Morillo – Mesias (Live)

Maverick City Music, Chandler Moore, Cody Carnes, Naomi Raine – Firm Foundation (He Won’t)

Spirit Of Praise, Mpumi Mtsweni – Thath’Indawo (Live)

Hillsong Worship, Brooke Ligertwood – What A Beautiful Name

Elevation Worship, Maverick City Music, Chandler Moore, Naomi Raine – Jireh

Victor Thompson, Ehis ‘D’ Greatest – THIS YEAR (Blessings)

Ebuka Songs – I Will Pray

Hillsong UNITED, TAYA – Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)

Moses Bliss, Festizie, Chizie, Neeja, S.O.N Music, Ajay Asika  – You Are Great

Joyous Celebration – Ndenzel’ Uncedo Hymn 377 (Live)