Artist: Cornelius Benjamin
Song: ODUM NKE EBOH JUDAH
Album: JESUS BE OGA 2
Track: 10
Genre: Gospel
Language: Igbo
Released: June 11, 2001
Duration: 3:16
Label: 5737480 Records DK
If you’re going through Cornelius Benjamin’s JESUS BE OGA 2, “ODUM NKE EBOH JUDAH” is another song that deserves attention.
Released on June 11, 2001, the song is the 10th track on the 14 track album and runs for just over three minutes. It is one of the songs that helped make the project a memorable part of Cornelius Benjamin’s gospel catalogue.
The title is an Igbo expression referring to “the Lion of the tribe of Judah.” It is a name Christians use in reference to Jesus, pointing to His strength, authority and victory.
That message fits very well with the direction of the album. By this point in JESUS BE OGA 2, Cornelius Benjamin had already taken listeners through songs like “Heavenly Race” and “God Is Greater.” Then comes “ODUM NKE EBOH JUDAH,” before the album moves into “You Are the Lord,” “There Is Nothing,” “M’ga Eso Gi (Onye Nzoputam)” and finally “Imara Nma.”
One thing I like about these older songs is how straightforward they are. Cornelius Benjamin wasn’t trying to make the message difficult to understand. The focus is on praising God and reminding listeners of who He is.
And this song is still getting attention today. Cornelius Benjamin’s official Audiomack upload has recorded more than 47,000 plays, while his official YouTube channel also has the song available as part of JESUS BE OGA 2.
There is also an interesting bit of history around the album. JESUS BE OGA 2 was originally released in 2001, but the music has continued to find new listeners through streaming platforms. Today, the full 14 track album is available on services including Audiomack, Apple Music and Amazon Music.
So if you’re discovering “ODUM NKE EBOH JUDAH” for the first time, you’re not just listening to another old gospel song. You’re getting a taste of the Nigerian gospel sound of the early 2000s, when indigenous languages were a big part of how gospel artists shared their message.
Listen to Cornelius Benjamin – ODUM NKE EBOH JUDAH using the audio player below and enjoy another classic from JESUS BE OGA 2.
