I thank God I’m living my dream

Esther Wahome is regarded as a pioneer in the gospel industry. She shares with Lifestyle about her career, family and success.

Q:Tell us about yourself?

A: I am a recording and performing gospel artiste. I have been singing for the last 22 years, produced 11 albums and won several awards. I am a former holder of the Mrs Kenya title.

When did you discover you could sing?

I came from a musical  family. My dad is a preacher and can play any instrument. Being a preacher we could worship every evening. I got used to it and that’s how I got into the gospel industry.

I was very active throughout my school and in church; I was a Christian Union leader at Pangani Girls.

What does being a recording artiste entail?

I do a lot of writing, production, promotion and marketing of songs. I also perform in different countries.

How are your days like?

It depends on my schedule. When I’m not performing, I am always indoors.

But when I’m preparing for a show, I spend a lot of time with my band members doing rehearsals. Like now, I am preparing for an international show next month.

I wake up very early to have time with my God then take breakfast with my children. After everyone leaves, I spend more time cleaning the house and cooking.

Any challenges?

I believe Kenya is the hardest country in the world to break through as an artiste. It is difficult for Kenyans to appreciate their own and some of them will always look for a reason to bring you down.

Another challenge is that you may work so hard to produce music which is very expensive but when you take it to the media, they do not give you priority.

What brings you the greatest satisfaction?

The fact that I have been able to pursue my dream and it has come true. I wanted to go beyond where I have seen gospel music reach in Kenya.

When I came to the industry gospel music was for the church alone. I am proud to tell you that my music was the first to cross to the secular arena.

The gospel music was too religious I wanted something else that would bring revolution to the industry where we would be appreciated anywhere we go. I thank God for that.

I am proud that my dreams have come true. I have always been a person who believes in doing bigger things. I love challenges and with that I have been able to move mountains.

How did you succeed where others have failed?

The industry is not for the faint hearted. I never give up easily. I have worked hard, was very patient and prayerful .

Who are  your role models?

Nicole Munel, there is something in her that I love so much whenever she sings. And Rev Teresia Wairimu, she is a good preacher, I just admire everything about her, her dressing included.

What do you do to unwind?

I listen to music a lot.  I also enjoy travelling a lot.

Favourite holiday destination?

Any place where there are beaches. I grew up in Nyeri. Mombasa is my ideal place.

What are your aspirations?

I want to be an example of a woman who came from a small village and went on to become successful .

I want to inspire women so that they believe that they can be anything they want so long as they trust in God, believe in themselves and work hard.

Are you married?

Yes, I have been married for 18 years. I have three children. I got married when I was pretty young, at 21 and at 22 , I had my first born. I have one girl and two boys.

What is it you love about your husband?

I have an angel for a husband; He is one man who will never be insecure whenever I go for my international shows.

God answered my prayers because I always prayed that I get a man who will understand and respect me.

He is very loving, caring and takes care of the boys and girl when I’m out of the country. Many people do not know my husband but he is the pillar behind my success.

What keeps you going?

The fact that I believe in God. There are times that things turn very difficult and the whole solution lies with God. The fact that I know the person who holds my talents, I have to work hard because I know he is reliable.