Emmanuel Benjamin, widely recognized by his stage name Eben, is a prominent Nigerian gospel singer, vocal powerhouse, and prolific songwriter. Born on September 9, 1979, Eben has made an indelible mark in the world of gospel music with his soul-stirring melodies and inspirational lyrics.
Early Life and Education
Eben’s journey in the world of gospel music traces back to his formative years in Lagos, Nigeria. He grew up as the fifth child in a close-knit Christian family, imbibing the values of faith and devotion from a young age. His educational journey began at Orile Primary School, and later, he attended Community Grammar School in Orile, Lagos, where his passion for music began to take shape.
Career Beginnings
In 1997, Eben embarked on his musical odyssey, initially mentored by his elder brother as a rapper. However, destiny had other plans for him as he discovered his innate gift for singing. This pivotal moment marked the transformation of Eben from a budding rapper to a gospel sensation. His musical prowess began to flourish, and in 2005, he experienced a breakthrough that catapulted him into the spotlight. Eben’s first significant public appearance took place at a youth conference organized by Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, where the melodious strains of “Imarama” first resonated with the audience.
Christ Embassy Membership
In 2006, Eben became an integral member of Christ Embassy, a renowned Christian denomination founded by Pastor Chris Oyakhilome. His association with this influential ministry further fueled his passion for gospel music and provided a platform for his musical aspirations.
Musical Milestones
In 2007, Eben released his debut album, “On the Rock,” which featured timeless tracks such as “Imaranma,” “God Dey,” “Iwo Nikan,” “I Don Hammer,” and many others. This album not only showcased his musical prowess but also solidified his position as a rising star in the gospel music scene.
Eben’s musical journey continued to flourish with the release of subsequent albums, including “Phenomenon” in 2010, featuring hits like “Super Man,” “Imele Papa,” and “Siya Nma.” In 2013, he unveiled yet another captivating album, “Justified,” which resonated with fans through tracks like “You Alone Are Worthy,” “Onye Nwem,” “How I Love You,” “Forever,” and “All The Way.”
Entrepreneurial Ventures
Beyond his musical career, Eben ventured into the business realm, establishing the esteemed Hammer House of Rock record label. Complementing this, the Hammer House Ventures arm specializes in video and music production, event management, and interior decoration, showcasing Eben’s multifaceted talents and entrepreneurial spirit.
A Symphony of Worship
Eben’s musical repertoire also includes the transcendent album “Magnified,” featuring worship anthems such as “Stayed On You,” “Everything,” “Idi Nma,” “Lifted Hands,” and other stirring compositions. Among his many hits, Eben’s song “Victory” resonated deeply with a vast audience, propelling him even further into the gospel music limelight.
Joyful Noise 2019
On September 15, 2019, Eben orchestrated a momentous event in the gospel music sphere. He hosted the Joyful Noise 2019 live concert, which brought together top gospel musicians and even featured renowned American artists, Bob Fitts and Phil Thompson. This concert became a testament to Eben’s commitment to spreading joy and inspiration through his music.