Kumama Yesu

When a song captures the joy of the whole continent, it doesn't take long to find its way into the choir loft. Originally a massive worship hit by Grace Lokwa and Prinx Emmanuel, "Kumama Yesu" has been arranged here for four-part harmony by Charles Onwubuya and Alex Ugwu. It blends the infectious Lingala praise of the original with vibrant Igbo thanksgiving, creating an anthem of pure, uncontained gratitude.

Choirs typically bring this out during the Offertory procession or as a rousing Recessional hymn. The arrangement builds beautifully, starting with the familiar "Azua nga bo mwana" chorus before moving into layered verses. By the time the sopranos soar into "Ọlụ ọma gị juru m'ọnụ eh" (Your good works fill my mouth), the entire congregation is usually on their feet, swaying and singing along.

What makes this score so much fun to sing is how it handles the rhythm and the overlapping voice parts. The ostinato in the lower voices during the second verse creates a driving, rhythmic bed for the sopranos to float over, leading right into the explosive "Omenụkọ Ebube dike" in the coda. It is a perfect choice for harvest thanksgivings, feast days, or any Sunday when the parish needs to lift the roof with praise.