Early Life and Family Background
Kofi Owusu Peprah was born on July 18, 1991, in Kumasi, the capital city of the Ashanti Region in Ghana. He is the third of five children to Reverend George Owusu Mensah and Mrs. Bernice Owusu Mensah. Growing up in a Christian household, Kofi was immersed in a spiritually rich environment, which significantly influenced his musical journey. His father, a seasoned gospel musician, and his mother, a dedicated church worker, provided a nurturing backdrop that shaped his early exposure to music and ministry
Education and Musical Development
Kofi’s educational path began at Grace Baptist Church in Kumasi, where he completed his primary and junior high school education. He then attended Kumasi Anglican Secondary School (Great Akass) for his secondary education. In 2010, he enrolled at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), pursuing a degree in Agricultural Mechanization, which he completed in 2014. During his time at KNUST, Kofi was an active member of the university’s mass choir and served as its music director in 2014. It was here that he discovered his vocal talents, transitioning from his initial interest in playing the bass guitar to focusing on singing. This shift marked the beginning of his professional music career.
Career Trajectory and Musical Style
Transition to Gospel Music
Initially, Kofi aspired to be a bass guitarist, but upon realizing the competitive environment at KNUST, he pivoted to singing. His involvement in the university’s mass choir allowed him to hone his vocal abilities and gain recognition. After completing his degree, he furthered his musical education by enrolling in a Diploma in Church Music at the Ghana Baptist University College in 2016.
Breakthrough and Notable Works
Kofi Owusu Peprah’s debut single, “Yesu Nyame Ba,” released in 2018, introduced him to the gospel music scene. His subsequent releases, including “Amen,” “Big God,” and “The Father’s Gift,” have resonated with audiences, showcasing his unique blend of contemporary gospel and traditional influences. In 2023, he released “Ruach Hakodesh,” a live-recorded song emphasizing the role of the Holy Spirit in the Christian faith. The song received positive feedback for its heartfelt lyrics and powerful delivery.
Live Performances and Concerts
Kofi has been actively involved in live performances, both locally and internationally. In 2023, he performed at the Grace Encounter show in Nairobi, Kenya, alongside renowned gospel artists such as Joe Mettle and Victoria Orenze. He also participated in the Vodafone Ghana Music Awards 2023, performing as part of the Gospel All Stars. Additionally, he hosted “Kofi Owusu Peprah Live in Tema,” a concert that featured other gospel artists and drew significant attendance.
Contributions to the Music and Entertainment Industry
Beyond his performances, Kofi Owusu Peprah serves as the Music Director at the International Central Gospel Church (Evangel Temple) in New Dawhenya. He is also a backing vocalist for Joe Mettle Ministries, contributing to various gospel events and recordings. His involvement in church music and mentorship of emerging artists underscores his commitment to nurturing talent within the gospel music community.
Personal Life
Kofi is married to Barbara Ama Asantewaa Mensah, a fashion designer, and they have a daughter named Diella Psalm. The family resides in Ghana, where Kofi continues to balance his musical career with his responsibilities as a husband and father.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
Kofi Owusu Peprah’s journey from a university bass guitarist to a prominent gospel artist exemplifies the transformative power of faith and dedication. His music, characterized by its spiritual depth and contemporary appeal, has made a significant impact on the gospel music landscape in Ghana and beyond. Through his songs and performances, Kofi continues to inspire and uplift audiences, reaffirming the central role of music in worship and ministry.
