Tosin Alao’s “Count Your Blessings” continues to highlight his mastery of using music to evoke powerful emotions and memories.
By Emmanuel ‘Waziri’ Okoro
Music reminds us of a lot of moments, and it is particularly fascinating how every lyric, every chord, and every sonic progression one hears can unlock a truckload of memories that have long been tucked away. It’s the innate power of music, and very limited artistes understand this sensibility and channel it into their work like the Nigerian singer, songwriter, and composer, Tosin Alao, has done with his new single, “Count Your Blessings”.
Born Oluwatosin Adewale Mike Alao, the Oyo State-born musician has been making music since the early ‘80s. His Afrocentric style, which fuses Afrobeat, Jazz, and Highlife, sets him apart as a gifted artiste. Growing up in the ancient city of Ibadan, his early passion for music led him to study it at the prestigious Obafemi Awolowo University.
As a multi-instrumentalist, Alao plays the bass guitar, piano, and drums expertly, but his musical influence doesn’t stop at performing. He is also a music missionary, having established choirs across Africa, Europe, and America.
Since his professional debut in 1986, he has remained a respected figure in the gospel music industry. Currently, he serves as a music minister at Trinity House under the mentorship of Pastor Itua Ighodalo. Alongside his roles as a songwriter, producer, and music director, he has received numerous awards and has performed alongside both local and international music legends. His latest release continues to highlight his mastery of using music to evoke powerful emotions and memories.
“Count Your Blessings”, a medley of different songs, opens to mid-tempo drum rolls, which is further assisted with trumpets, piano, and bass guitar riffs, and instantly creates a laid back, orchestra-esque vibe. The lyrics, albeit delivered in native Yoruba, is a direct reiteration of Johnson Oatman’s 1897 classic hymn of the same name.
While many classics sampled or interpolated today lack the careful handling they deserve, Tosin Alao approaches “Count Your Blessings” with reverence and precision. Every line and melody is delivered with care, accompanied by a powerful backup choir on each chorus, giving the hymn the timeless treatment it warrants. Throughout the ministration, the track evokes a deep sense of nostalgia, often transporting listeners — including this writer — back to formative years spent on school assembly grounds and/or in church services.
Much more than a nostalgic piece, “Count Your Blessings” inspires sober reflection, urging listeners to pause and recognize the remarkable blessings in their lives. In today’s fast-paced world, Christians often overlook these moments of gratitude. Yet, songs like this serve as sonic reminders, pulling us back to a place of thanksgiving.
Tosin Alao seamlessly transitions through different nostalgic numbers, filled with thanksgiving and gratitude, while maintaining a consistent, soothing tempo. One of the beauties of the “Count Your Blessings” is the brilliant arrangement.
There seems to be a fine balance between the vocals and the composition of the band, ensuring that every sonic element complements the other. This obvious synergy results in a delicately crafted, wholesome sound that elevates the listening experience.
Alao’s knack for creating music that resonates with audiences isn’t in short supply, as “Count Your Blessings” demonstrates once again his ability to tap into different sonic pockets and solidifies his position as an act who understands the emotional connection music can foster.
Listen to “Count Your Blessings” here.
