Full Name: Moffat Omari
Stage Name: Mr. Googz
Profession: Musician, Preacher, Author
Genres: Reggae, Gospel
Notable Hits: “Wasee (Githurai)” (1998)
Church: Wisdom Center Church, Kiambu
Notable Awards: Kisima Awards, Kora Awards
Early Life and Education
Moffat Omari, popularly known as Mr. Googz, is a renowned Kenyan musician, preacher, and author. He grew up in Zimmermann, a bustling suburb of Nairobi, where his musical journey began. Mr. Googz attended Ainsworth Primary School in Eastleigh, Nairobi, and later proceeded to Highway Secondary School. His early exposure to Nairobi’s diverse cultural environment laid the foundation for his future in music.
Rise to Fame: Secular Music and the Duo with Vinnie Banton
Mr. Googz’s musical career took off when he teamed up with fellow artist Vinnie Banton, forming a successful musical duo in the late 1990s. Together, they joined the renowned Ogopa DJs record label, which was instrumental in shaping Kenya’s music scene at the time. In 1998, the duo released their breakout hit “Wasee (Githurai)”, a song that became a national sensation in Kenya. The track, featuring Mr. Lenny, was a tribute to Githurai, a suburb on the northeastern outskirts of Nairobi, and it resonated deeply with urban youth across the country.
“Wasee (Githurai)” catapulted Mr. Googz and Vinnie Banton to stardom, making them household names in the Kenyan music industry. Their success earned them recognition, and Mr. Googz was nominated for several prestigious awards, including:
- 2001: Nominated as Reggae Artist of the Year at the Kisima Music Awards
- 2002: Won Most Promising Male Artiste of the Year at the Kora Awards
In 2003, Mr. Googz, along with Vinnie Banton, the Longombas, and Deux Vultures, left Ogopa DJs to form their own label, Bad Man Camp, where they continued to make music. However, the duo eventually parted ways in 2004, with both artists deciding to pursue solo careers.
Conversion to Gospel Music
Mr. Googz’s life took a dramatic turn in 2005 when he experienced what he describes as his “Damascus moment,” referring to the biblical story of Apostle Paul’s conversion. This year marked the beginning of his spiritual transformation, and Mr. Googz made the bold decision to leave secular music and commit his life to gospel music and ministry.
He released his first gospel album, ‘His Love’, in 2006, marking his transition from the reggae and dancehall beats of his earlier career to spreading the message of faith through gospel music. His conversion story struck a chord with many Kenyans, and he retained much of his popularity even after his switch to gospel. In 2007, he was recognized at the Kisima Awards, winning Contemporary Gospel Artist of the Year.
Preaching and Ministry
Beyond music, Mr. Googz has embraced his calling as a preacher. Over the years, he has dedicated himself to spreading the gospel across Kenya. He regularly holds crusades and evangelical events in neighborhoods like Zimmermann, Juja, Githurai, Ngong, Kitengela, and other parts of Nairobi. His ability to connect with the masses through both his music and his preaching has made him a respected figure in Kenya’s gospel community.
Mr. Googz is the founder and leader of Wisdom Center Church, based in Kiambu Central, where he ministers to his congregation. His teachings and sermons focus on transformation, redemption, and the power of faith, themes that are also reflected in his gospel music.
Personal Life and Legacy
Mr. Googz’s journey from secular stardom to gospel ministry is a powerful testament to his dedication and faith. He often likens his story to that of Apostle Paul, who experienced a profound transformation and dedicated his life to spreading the message of God. Today, Mr. Googz is regarded as a Man of God, balancing his roles as a preacher, musician, and author.
As a legend in the Kenyan music industry, Mr. Googz has left an indelible mark on both the secular and gospel music scenes. His ability to seamlessly transition from one genre to another while maintaining his authenticity has earned him the respect and admiration of fans across the country.
Awards and Accomplishments
Over the course of his career, Mr. Googz has earned several notable awards and nominations:
- 2001: Nominated for Reggae Artist of the Year – Kisima Music Awards
- 2002: Won Most Promising Male Artiste of the Year – Kora Awards
- 2007: Won Contemporary Gospel Artist of the Year – Kisima Awards
Conclusion
Mr. Googz, also known as The Chosen One, has had a transformative career that has seen him evolve from a reggae star to a respected gospel artist and preacher. His dedication to faith, music, and ministry has made him a beloved figure in Kenya, and his influence extends far beyond the music industry. Through his teachings, music, and community outreach, Mr. Googz continues to inspire countless people, leaving a lasting legacy in both the secular and gospel spheres of Kenyan culture.
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