World-renowned gospel artist Smokie Norful (Willie Ray Norful Jr.), a two-time Grammy Award winner, recently experienced an unforgettable visit to Rwanda, where he connected with local gospel musicians and shared moments of inspiration and fellowship.
Best known for his hit songs I Need You Now and No Greater Love, the American gospel singer arrived in Rwanda for the first time last week.
On the evening of Tuesday, August 19, 2025, Norful was honored at an exclusive celebration held at Kigali Serena Hotel. The private event was filled with joy as attendees were blessed with an intimate performance from one of the world’s most celebrated gospel voices.
Although his visit mainly focused on ministry and development initiatives, Norful expressed deep gratitude for the warm reception he received from Rwandans. He was particularly moved by the admiration shown by local gospel artists, some of whom revealed that his music had inspired them to begin their own musical journeys.
The singer, pastor, and entrepreneur—who has over one million followers on Facebook—was warmly welcomed by Rwandan gospel artists including Rene Patrick, Tracy Agasaro, Eddie Mico, Kenneth, The Pink, and others. They described his songs as a source of wisdom and strength in both their spiritual and musical paths.
With an estimated net worth of 4 billion Rwandan francs, Norful praised the hospitality of Rwandans and hinted that he looks forward to returning, according to sources close to him.
Who is Smokie Norful?
Smokie Norful, 49, is a gospel singer, songwriter, pianist, pastor, and entrepreneur. He was born on October 31, 1975, in Little Rock, Arkansas, to Rev. W.R. Norful and Teresa Norful. Growing up in the church, he began his musical journey at an early age.
After graduating from the University of Arkansas, he pursued theological studies at Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary in Evanston, Illinois, where he earned a Master of Divinity degree. Before fully dedicating himself to music and pastoral ministry, he worked as a history teacher in various schools.
Ordained in 1997, Norful first served at St. John AME Church in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, as youth pastor and music director. He later founded Victory Cathedral Worship Center in Chicago, where he continues to minister today.
Norful rose to international prominence with his debut album I Need You Now (2002), followed by Nothing Without You (2004), which earned him a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Soul Gospel Album.
He went on to release several acclaimed projects, including Life Changing (2006), Smokie Norful Live (2009), How I Got Over (2011), and Once in a Lifetime (2012). His music catalog includes gospel classics such as I Need You Now—which has garnered over 27 million views on YouTube—Dear God, and I Understand.
In 2015, he won another Grammy Award for his song No Greater Love, which has since reached nearly 4 million views on YouTube. In addition to his Grammy Awards, Norful has received multiple Dove Awards, Stellar Awards, and numerous international honors.
Author: Justinmind HARERIMANA
