“Joy”
Niyoki
From the D2G Records CD Rest
Release Date: August 19, 2008
www.niyoki.com

Born in Fort Wayne, Indiana and former backup singer for Prince with one hit gospel CD already under her belt, Niyoki is back with her sophomore disc, Rest.

“Joy,” the album’s advance single, hits the listener like a bracing wind. It dresses its lyrics of praise and gratitude in breezy jazz chords and a beat straight out of the bellbottom disco era, making this the for-sure single of gospel cafes and clubs.

Most importantly, “Joy” showcases Niyoki’s confident command of her craft, which befits her African name, which means “serious minded and responsible.” At the same time, “Joy,” Niyoki’s best work to date, is fun and free-spirited in its praise.

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Written by : Bob Marovich

Bob Marovich is a gospel music historian, author, and radio host. Founder of Journal of Gospel Music blog (formally The Black Gospel Blog) and producer of the Gospel Memories Radio Show.