Oba is a fine gospel jewel

Jacqueline Oba is a new name on the local gospel music circuit. However, for those who have been observing developments on the gospel scene, she has been bubbling under for over a decade now. Having begun her singing career in Tororo Pentecostal Church (TPC) in 1990, she started by doing back up vocals George Okudi on his first two albums. Listening to Oba's debut CD, Liberty, nothing gives her away as rustic and unrefined, for she has been singing since 1996. Oba first performed songs from her maiden project a few weeks ago at TPC before an audience of about 500 people. She was helped out by her group, The Pearls, who comprise eight creative dancers and back up vocalists. She professes, "We also saw so many people come to the Lord which meant victory for us as Christians." Her second show was held last week June 3 at Faith Power Centre in Entebbe. Oba will launch her album in concert on Sunday at 3.00 p.m. at Hotel Equatoria for sh3000. There will be another show next Sunday, June 17 at Christian Life Church, Bwaise at 3.00p.m for sh2000. The show will feature prominent gospel artists Jimmy Katumba and Betty Nakibuuka. Her CDs will be sold at the launch for sh25,000 while the tapes will go for sh2500. Liberty is a blissful journey through eight gospel quality-recorded tracks. The opening and title track Liberty is an Afro-Caribbean offering in the style of Monique Seka sung both in English and Luganda. On this, Oba introduces her talent to us in a fresh and vibrant sound. Yesu Akwaggala, a Luganda treat is a danceable upbeat track that takes on a trifling of dance hall music, while The Name of Jesus a dance/house beat is a slamming jam that will definitely get you up on your feet. Oba explores the reggae genre on Holy Is The Lord, while she keeps the tempo high with Let Him Know and Mukama Yemusumba Wange. She exhibits her ability to sing mellow harmonies with the closing ballad Abba Father. Oba who has been a praise and worship leader at Redeemed Christian Church of God, Namuwongo since she got married, said marital obligations and lack of funds had constrained her career. However, in December last year, Oba's dream was realised. "I finally managed to record a CD and audio tape. My husband Richard Oba and the church came in to help me. I was very encouraged," she says. Oba wrote all the eight songs on the album which was produced by Kiwa at Vine recording studios. Liberty has been catching on fast on the radio stations in town. Sadly though, it has been confined to Christian stations so far. ends