Nigerian Afrogospel artist Gaise Baba has released the official music video for ‘Smile for Joy’, featuring South African gospel singer Nontokozo Mkhize. Taken from his album God Is Cooking, the song brings together Nigerian and South African sounds, languages and cultures in a celebration of faith, joy and unity.
Inspired by Isaiah 54:1, ‘Smile for Joy’ encourages believers to rejoice even when God’s promises have not yet become a reality. The song speaks to those still waiting for their dreams to come true, reminding them that their present circumstances should not take away their joy. Even when things are not going as planned, there is still a reason to sing, dance and trust God.
One interesting part of the song is the inclusion of a popular Yoruba chorus from the Cherubim and Seraphim Church Movement (Ayo Ni O) in Nigeria. Gaise Baba brings the familiar chorus into the song, encouraging believers to cheer up, put fear aside and rejoice. South African singer Nontokozo Mkhize also joins in singing Yoruba, adding a special touch to the collaboration.
With lines such as “Tujuka, tujuka” (Cheer up) and “Ma se beru, ma se foya” (Fear not, be not afraid), the song keeps returning to the same message of encouragement. The lyrics also remind believers that their names are written in the Book of Life, giving them another reason to rejoice.
Beyond the music, the video opens with a message addressing hatred and division among Africans.
“The enemy wants us divided, hating and killing each other. We should be wiser than that.”
The message continues in a South African language, calling for Africans to unite, love one another, work together and celebrate together. The Nigerian and South African flags appear side by side, a fitting introduction to a song that brings artists from both countries together.
The message is particularly relevant given the tensions that have sometimes existed between Nigerians and South Africans. Rather than focusing on those differences, the video encourages unity and reminds viewers that there is much more to gain from standing together.
The collaboration brings together two artists from different parts of Africa, sharing a message of hope, joy and unity that goes beyond borders.
