Gospel Star Big Bolaji Dies at 50 After Brief Illness
The Nigerian gospel music community and beyond are mourning the sudden passing of renowned gospel singer and ordained pastor Bolaji Adedotun Olanrewaju, popularly known as Big Bolaji or Big B.
The beloved artist, who had celebrated his 50th birthday in November 2024, died on Easter Saturday, April 19, 2025, following a brief illness. His death has left a deep void in the hearts of fans, family, and colleagues.
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Born in Gbongan, Osun State, and raised in Ibadan, Oyo State, Big Bolaji became a towering figure in Nigerian gospel music. He was celebrated for his energetic worship style, contagious joy, and his unique fusion of Yoruba rhythms with contemporary gospel music.
With powerful vocals and a vibrant stage presence, he won over audiences across churches, crusades, and concert stages both within Nigeria and internationally. Some of his best-known songs include “Real to Me,” “God Father,” and “Baba Lo Soun Gbogbo,” all of which resonated deeply with listeners.
More than a musician, Big Bolaji was also an ordained pastor in the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) and a spiritual mentor to many. His journey of faith began under Bishop Francis Wale Oke at The Sword of the Spirit Ministries, where he was converted and mentored.
He later emerged as a key figure within the RCCG, seamlessly blending ministry with music. He was also a member of the board of directors for the Living Spring Music Festival, one of the longest-standing gospel music events in Nigeria.
In addition to his spiritual and musical pursuits, Big Bolaji was a certified estate surveyor. He studied Estate Management at Kwara State Polytechnic and was pursuing a PhD at the time of his passing.
His academic path took him from Subuola Nursery and Primary School in Ibadan to Loyola College, and later to Archbishop Tenison’s High School in London for his secondary education.
He was the founder and host of Turn It Up with Big Bolaji, an annual praise concert in Ibadan that grew out of his long-running gospel radio show. The event became a significant part of the gospel music calendar, attracting thousands of worshippers. He also served as a judge on the Gospel Icons Africa reality show, where he mentored emerging gospel talents and left an enduring mark on the next generation of artists.
Big Bolaji’s music career began with the gospel group J’apha, and his charisma and humor made him a beloved radio talk show personality. His ability to connect with people through song, sermons, or casual conversation earned him the reputation of being a “vessel of joy” and a “light in the world,” as described by fellow gospel singer Chioma Jesus.
According to a statement released by his family, Big Bolaji passed away after a brief illness. One report indicates that he collapsed while performing at a musical event on the night of April 18 and, despite receiving medical attention, passed away the following day. The family has not disclosed the specific nature of the illness and has asked for privacy during this period of mourning.
He is survived by his wife, Tolulope Olanrewaju, whom he married in August 2005 after they met during his academic journey. Their union was blessed with children, though the family has not publicly shared specific details about them.
He is also survived by his extended family, including his brother, gospel artist Muyiwa Olanrewaju, who expressed his grief on social media, writing, “My baby brother is gone. Please pray for his wife and children.”
