Gospel Spotlight: Rhoda Isabella inspires with ‘Kingdom Rhode’

Back in May, gospel singer Rhoda Isabella released her debut album, ‘ Kingdom Rhode’. Pointing out that the album was created to ­encapsulate the journey of life, the singer said that she hoped the project would inspire people to ‘trod on’ despite ­obstacles and stumbling blocks they would no doubt face.

Today, after hearing ­testimonials from ­people the album has motivated, the singer is happy her mission is being accomplished.

“It’s overwhelming how people have been responding to the album. I’ve actually been getting calls from people who were suicidal, who said the music has inspired them to keep going. I remember singing at a concert recently, and a lady came to me and told me that she was ­diagnosed with cancer and it was the song Still Breathing that she would listen to every single day until she basically got a miracle and she didn’t need to do the surgery that they said she needed,” she disclosed. “For me, I really wanted this album to be an inspiration to people, so when I hear stories like that, it makes it all worth it. On the low days, when I really question why I chose music, those are the stories that really keep me going,” she said.

With that said, Rhoda Isabella revealed that there was a time when she felt like giving up on music. She said that she questioned her purpose and allowed doubt to fill her mind but that when she sees her songs having such an impact, all doubts retreat.

“I had somewhat felt like giving up on music before the album was completed, so to see this response is just very encouraging. When I decided I was gonna do music, I told myself I didn’t want to do the clichéd gospel stuff (even though nothing is wrong with that). I wanted to do what I classify as life music, world music, so people can relate to the message from all walks of life in whatever culture, whatever race,” she said.

“I’m happy to see that my music is doing what I set out for it to do. It’s touching lives, and that’s the most important thing.”

Kingdom Rhode was produced by ­record label Barbwiya Music. It has 11 tracks and is available on most digital platforms.