08

The man before the music

The life, music and legacy of CJ’s father, Rev. Patty Obasi, The Sower.

Rev. Patty Obasi seated with his acoustic guitar in a studio portrait
Family photograph.

The Sower

Born
Patrick Obasi, 15 May 1951, Mmaku, Awgu, Enugu State
Known as
Rev. Patty Obasi, The Sower. His releases carry the name Rev. Patty Obassey
Instruments
Vocals, guitar
Breakthrough
“Nwa Mama Iwota” (1980)
Died
October 2012, Enugu

Rev. Patty Obasi was a Nigerian gospel recording artist, guitarist and music evangelist. He is regarded as one of the pioneers of Nigerian gospel music, and rose to prominence with “Nwa Mama Iwota”. He released more than 15 studio albums during his career.

His music carried strong Christian, moral and social messages, often expressed through Igbo-language gospel music. His commitment to using music to spread a message earned him the name “The Sower.”

Sources: Wikipedia, Vanguard.

His recorded works

His catalogue remains available on digital platforms, including Apple Music.

Listen on Apple Music
  1. 01Bianu Kanyi Kele Jehova
  2. 02Nwa Mama Iwota
  3. 03Onye Isi Agha
  4. 04Okara Akapa
  5. 05Ezi Nwayi Di Ukor
  6. 06Billionaire in a Crate
  7. 07Walking With Jesus
  8. 08Ubanese
  9. 09Anya N’ele Uwa
  10. 10Ogadika Oluebube
  11. 11Onye Onyinye
  12. 12Freelance Painter
  13. 13Ezinwanye Di Iko
  14. 14Chinaza Oku
  15. 15Anyi Gana Eje N’iru
Rev. Patty Obasi singing into a microphone, playing his acoustic guitar
Family photograph.

The legacy that continued at home

  • A son who watched him play.
  • A son who lost him.
  • A son who dreamed of him.
  • A guitar passed from father to son.
  • And a story that is still being written.
Read CJ’s story