Ghanaian gospel music icon Esther Smith has opened up about the deep inspirations, spiritual grounding and personal experiences that set her music apart during the peak of her career. In candid reflections shared during recent interviews ahead of her Ghana appearances, the award-winning singer credited her connection with God, disciplined preparation and heartfelt lyricism for the unique impact her songs have had on listeners both in Ghana and abroad.
Born in Suame, Kumasi in the early 1970s, Esther’s musical journey began at a young age when she joined the Tesano Methodist Church choir at just 14 years old, an experience that laid the foundation for her life in gospel music. She later went on to join the Voices of Faith Choir in the early 1990s, where she began writing her own songs and discovering her unique voice in the gospel genre. Her breakout came with her debut album Gye No Di, released in 2000, which produced several hit tracks and captured the hearts of gospel music lovers across Ghana.
Esther Smith’s peak years were marked by a series of critically acclaimed albums and songs that resonated deeply with listeners. She won major honours at the Ghana Music Awards, including Gospel Album of the Year, Gospel Artiste of the Year, and Best Female Vocal Performance in 2003 achievements that underscored her influence in shaping gospel music in the country.
When asked about what made her songs stand out during that period, Esther emphasised the spiritual nature of her work and the intentionality behind her songwriting process. She explained that gospel music, unlike other genres, demands a deeper connection with faith and scripture a foundation she insists is essential for songs that move people’s hearts. She said many of her songs emerged from prayer, reflection and encounters with God’s Word, which she believed infused her music with authenticity and spiritual depth.
One of the defining characteristics of Esther’s music is the emotional and spiritual testimony embedded in her lyrics. Songs like “Som No Yie,” “Nyame Wo Ho,” “Teamu Fre Jesus” and “Ma Wonsa” are cited by fans not just for their melodies but for their ability to speak directly to issues of faith, healing, deliverance and God’s protection. Esther recalls real-life testimonies of how her songs have intersected with listeners’ lives including stories of families reconciled and individuals uplifted in times of despair affirming her conviction that her music was never merely entertainment, but ministry.
Esther’s reflections also highlight her conviction that gospel songs must carry meaningful messages rooted in scripture. She spoke about how many of her songs were inspired by sermons, personal Bible study and spiritual encounters. Her classic works often connected the theme of God’s faithfulness with scriptural foundations, which she believed gave her music timeless appeal and helped it transcend generational boundaries.
A crucial part of her narrative is the belief that gospel music is not just artistic expression but spiritual work a calling that requires prayer, fasting and a sincere relationship with God. She emphasised that the spiritual discipline behind her creative process contributed significantly to her ability to craft songs that resonate with believers on a deep level. This perspective has influenced how she writes and performs, setting her apart from artists who treat music primarily as a career rather than a calling.
Esther’s return to Ghana after years abroad including extended stays in Europe and travel between continents has sparked renewed interest in her music and legacy. Her recent concerts in Kumasi and Accra, which celebrated her life’s work, reminded many Ghanaian music lovers why her songs continue to be cherished long after their initial release. Fans and fellow artists alike have praised her for the enduring spiritual strength and emotional resonance of her body of work.
Despite her success, Esther remains humble about her influence. In media engagements, she has expressed reluctance to take personal credit for titles often bestowed on her, preferring instead to let her music speak for itself and emphasising that her priority has always been to honour God and bless lives rather than chase accolades.
As Esther Smith continues to engage with audiences through live performances and new music releases, her reflections on what made her songs stand out serve as a testament to the power of spiritually rooted music. For many believers and gospel music lovers, her legacy is not just her catalogue of hits, but the ways in which her songs have offered comfort, encouragement and a reminder of God’s presence through life’s challenges.