Kefee: Biography, Net Worth, Ministry And Career Highlights

In the Nigerian gospel music industry, certain names remain unforgettable because of their unique voices, creative artistry, and lasting impact. One of such names is Kefee Obareki Don-Momoh, popularly known simply as Kefee. Until her untimely death in 2014, she was one of the most influential gospel musicians in Nigeria, renowned for blending traditional African rhythms with contemporary gospel sounds. From her breakout hit Branama to her later works that cemented her as a household name, Kefee’s journey was marked by resilience, faith, and passion.

This article takes a deep dive into Kefee’s biography, net worth, ministry, and career highlights, celebrating the life of the talented singer whose voice continues to resonate in the hearts of millions.

Early Life and Background

Kefee Obareki was born on February 5, 1980, in Sapele, Delta State, Nigeria, into a devout Christian family. Growing up, she was deeply immersed in church activities, which exposed her to music at an early age. Her parents, who were pastors, nurtured her love for God and music, instilling values of faith, discipline, and service.

As a teenager, Kefee joined the church choir, where she discovered her gift and developed her singing skills. Her passion for music grew beyond the church walls, and she started writing songs and experimenting with blending traditional African melodies with contemporary gospel beats.

She studied at the University of Benin (UNIBEN), where she earned a degree in Public Administration. Despite her academic pursuit, music remained her first love, and by the time she graduated, she was already fully immersed in her musical journey.

Musical Journey and Career Highlights

Breakthrough with Branama

Kefee rose to fame in 2003 with the release of her hit single Branama. The song, which means "show off" in her native Urhobo language, was an anthem of celebration and gratitude to God. It was a unique blend of traditional Delta rhythms, Afrobeat, and gospel lyrics that immediately captured the hearts of Nigerians.

The success of Branama was phenomenal. It quickly spread across the country, becoming a staple in churches, social events, and on radio stations. The song not only brought her fame but also redefined contemporary gospel music in Nigeria.

Albums and Songs

Following the success of her debut, Kefee went on to release several albums that further solidified her place in the gospel music scene:

1. Branama (2003) – Her debut album that included the hit title track and established her as a rising star.
2. Branama 2 (2004) – A continuation of her debut success with more powerful tracks.
3. A Piece of Me (2009) – An album that featured collaborations with notable artists like Timaya and Skales, showing her versatility.
4. Kokoroko (2010) – A major hit track featuring Timaya, which won her several awards and became another gospel anthem.
5. Beautiful (2012) – A project that showcased her maturity as an artist and minister of the gospel.

Through these works, Kefee gained a reputation for fusing African beats with soulful gospel messages, making her music relatable to both the young and old.

Awards and Recognition

Kefee’s career was decorated with numerous awards and recognitions. Some of her notable achievements include:

• Best Female Gospel Artist at the African Gospel Music Awards.
• Multiple Nigeria Music Awards for her hit tracks.
• Recognition as one of Nigeria’s most innovative gospel artists.
• Her music also traveled beyond Nigeria, earning her international recognition and opportunities to minister across Europe and the United States.

Ministry and Impact

Kefee was not just a singer; she saw her music as a ministry. Through her songs, she spread messages of hope, gratitude, and faith in God. Many of her tracks were drawn from personal experiences, making them heartfelt and relatable.

Beyond music, Kefee was also passionate about humanitarian work. She founded the Kefee Peace Foundation (KPF), which focused on youth empowerment, promoting peace, and using creative arts to inspire young people.

Her foundation became a platform for reaching out to communities, encouraging young Nigerians to embrace their talents and pursue positive change.

Kefee was also a mentor to upcoming gospel musicians, helping them navigate the challenges of the music industry while staying true to their faith.

Personal Life

Kefee’s personal life was also widely followed in the media. She was first married to fellow gospel singer Alec Godwin, but the marriage ended in divorce. In 2013, she got married again to popular radio personality Teddy Esosa Don-Momoh, popularly known as Teddy Don-Momoh.

Their marriage was described as loving and supportive, and Teddy played a significant role in supporting Kefee’s career. Sadly, their union was cut short by her sudden death in 2014.

Untimely Death

In June 2014, tragedy struck when Kefee collapsed during a flight to the United States. She was diagnosed with lung failure, and after being in a coma for about two weeks, she passed away on June 12, 2014, at the age of 34.

Her death shocked the Nigerian music industry and her fans around the world. Tributes poured in from fellow musicians, fans, and church leaders, all of whom celebrated her impactful life and legacy.

Net Worth

At the time of her passing, Kefee had achieved significant financial success from her music, performances, and endorsements. Her net worth was estimated to be around $200,000 – $500,000.

Her wealth came from:

1. Album sales and royalties.
2. Concerts and international tours.
3. Endorsement deals and brand collaborations.
4. Business ventures, including her restaurant in Lagos called Branama Kitchen.

Though she left the world at a young age, Kefee had built a comfortable life and invested in ventures that reflected her creativity and entrepreneurial spirit.

Legacy

Kefee’s legacy is undeniable. She is remembered as:

• The Branama Queen, who brought a new wave of creativity into Nigerian gospel music.
• A passionate minister whose songs still inspire worshippers today.
• A role model for women in the gospel music industry.
• An advocate for youth empowerment through her foundation.
• Her songs continue to be sung in churches and events, ensuring that her voice and message live on.

FAQs about Kefee

1. Who was Kefee?

Kefee Obareki Don-Momoh was a Nigerian gospel singer, songwriter, and philanthropist, best known for her hit song Branama.

2. What was Kefee’s biggest hit song?

Her breakout song Branama remains her most popular, though she also had hits like Kokoroko featuring Timaya.

3. How did Kefee die?

She passed away in June 2014 due to lung failure after collapsing on a flight to the United States.

4. Was Kefee married?

Yes, she was married to radio personality Teddy Don-Momoh at the time of her death.

5. What was Kefee’s net worth?

Her estimated net worth was between $200,000 – $500,000, earned from her music, tours, and business ventures.

Conclusion

Kefee’s life may have been cut short, but her influence in the gospel music industry remains strong. From her humble beginnings in Delta State to becoming an internationally recognized gospel artist, she lived a life full of passion, creativity, and service to God. Her songs continue to inspire hope and joy, while her legacy as the Branama Queen endures in the hearts of many Nigerians.

Kefee is proof that a life lived with purpose can outlast one’s physical presence. Though gone, she is not forgotten.