Gospel music star and ordained pastor of The Redeemed Christian Church of God, Bolaji Olanrewaju, popularly known as Big Bolaji, has passed on
[dropcap]A[/dropcap] close source confirmed to Freelanews that the celebrated music minister died after a brief illness on Easter Saturday.
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His family has released an official statement announcing his passing, requesting prayers and privacy as they navigate this difficult time.
Gospel singer and RCCG pastor, Big Bolaji, dies on Easter Saturday after a brief illness. He was a beloved praise leader and mentor.
Big Bolaji, a vibrant praise leader known for his deep Yoruba intonations and magnetic stage presence, was a certified Estate Surveyor turned full-time music minister.
He was raised in Ibadan under the mentorship of Bishop Francis Wale Oke at The Sword of the Spirit Ministries.
He hailed from Gbongan in Osun State but spent most of his early years in Ibadan, Oyo State.
“Music has always been a part of me right from my primary school days.”
His educational journey took him from Subuola Nursery and Primary School in Ibadan to Archbishop Tension’s High School, London, and later to Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin, where he studied Estate Management.
He had professional certifications and was pursuing a PhD at the time of his passing.
According to Bolaji, “Music has always been a part of me right from my primary school days.” Inspired by his late mother, Rev. Mrs. Sola Olanrewaju, he embraced gospel music early and never looked back.
He began with modest platforms and gradually grew a loyal following. While he did not claim to have a single breakout moment, Bolaji credited his consistent rise to divine connections with Bishop Francis Wale Oke, Rev. Sam Rotimi Ore, and later, the Redeemed Christian Church of God under Pastor E. A. Adeboye.
Big Bolaji was known for his electrifying stage craft, blending traditional praise, Yoruba-rich intonations, comedy, and trending lingo with spiritual depth.
His unique style earned him the affectionate titles “Baba Awon Boyz” and “Area Fada”, in recognition of his commitment to mentoring and uplifting youth.
Legacy Beyond Music
Aside from his musical pursuits, Bolaji was a concert producer and radio host. His Sunday morning radio show, Turn It Up, inspired an annual praise concert in Ibadan bearing the same name.
Though he never released a full album, his single “Real To Me” captured the hearts of many. His legacy remains in his energetic live performances and the countless lives he touched through praise, mentoring, and ministry.
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Big Bolaji was married for over eight years and is survived by his wife and children. His family described him as a loving husband, doting father, and a humble servant of God who lived purposefully.
Further details about funeral arrangements will be announced by the family in due course.
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