Some stories entertain, while some transform. Once known as Seyi Benefit, a name that echoed in the vibrant corridors of secular music, this same voice has now found a new rhythm, one anchored in grace, redemption, and divine purpose. Today, that artist stands reborn as Seyi Psalms, a vessel of worship whose music blends deep spirituality with contemporary melodies. His ministry is centered on hope, restoration, and intimacy with God. Through his songs and testimonies, Seyi Psalms continues to inspire a new generation to trade fame for faith and applause for purpose.
In this heartfelt conversation with Khoemizona Babalola, Seyi Psalms opens up about the beautiful awakening that led to his transition from old lyrics of hustle to new songs of hope. He speaks about finding peace in one’s purpose. Welcome to the story behind the real change.
Q: What inspired the transition from Sheyi Benefit to Sheyi Psalms? 
A: Thank you so much. The name change was a divine instruction. “Benefit” represented the old me chasing gain and applause. But “Psalms” represents my new call to bring healing and praise through songs inspired by the Holy Spirit.
Q: You’ve evolved from a secular sound to a gospel voice. What was the breaking point that led to your total switch to gospel music?
A: It was the emptiness. I had the crowd but not peace. As a Christian, one day, I felt the Holy Spirit prick me, “You’re singing, but not speaking life.” That was my turning point.
Q: Many people know Sheyi Benefit as a vibrant performer. Who is Sheyi Psalms, beyond the microphone and stage lights?
A: I’m just a man who has seen mercy. A worshipper who loves serving God and people. Someone who now lives for purpose, not just fame.
Q: How would you describe your musical rebirth in one word, and why that word?
A: Restoration, because I didn’t just change my sound, God restored my soul.
Q: What was the hardest part of leaving behind your former brand, fans, and identity?
A: Letting go of recognition was tough but I’ve learned that true relevance is not in trends, it’s in God.
Q: In your own words, what does ministry through music mean to you?
A: It means becoming God’s voice in melody; it’s way beyond entertainment. It is an assignment.
Q: How has your walk with God changed your songwriting process?
A: Now I don’t write to impress anymore, I write to impact. My songs are birthed in prayer through Christ.
Q: Some say gospel music doesn’t get as much industry attention. What’s your take, and how do you handle the pressure?
A: That’s true but I’ve learnt not to chase platforms; it is mere shadow. When God breathes on a song, He gives it wings.
Q: Tell us about your first experience ministering as Sheyi Psalms.
A: I cried. I felt naked, spiritually speaking because I could sense the newness Isaiah 62:2 but at that moment, I knew I was finally back to my true purpose.
Q: Every gospel artiste has a message. What’s the core of your ministry?
A: Hope and restoration. I want my music to tell people, “You can begin again, that the pieces remaining can make a kingdom.”
Q: From Benefit to Psalms, what have you “lost” and what have you “gained”?
A: I lost the noise, but I gained a voice. I lost applause somewhat but I gained purpose in Christ.
Q: What role does prayer and the Holy Spirit play in your creative process?
A: Everything. Without prayer, I’m just making sounds. The Holy Spirit gives my songs life. When I need any tune, I consult the Holy Spirit and I get a response.
Q: Your songs carry strong emotion and spirit. Who are your biggest influences?
A: “Baba Ara” remains my greatest influence of all time though I barely sing his pattern. Pastor Nathaniel Bassey is really finding his way into my heart, he carries a lot of weight; and then Minister Dunsin Oyekan, I love his compositions a lot. Generally, musically, I’ve drawn a lot from old hymns and contemporary worship.
Q: If you could collaborate with one gospel artiste, who would it be and why?
A: Unbelievably, Tope Alabi. Her music pricks me spiritually. Their language and woven words are timeless, pure and carry power.
Q: As someone who’s lived in both worlds, what message do you have for artistes struggling between fame and faith?
A: Choose the altar over applause. Fame will fade but calling sustains.
Q: How do you balance ministry, personal life, and expectations of fans?
A: I create boundaries; I stay accountable to some mentors and I prioritize my secret place with God.
Q: Tell us about your upcoming projects.
A: My newest album, MAARITEMISE, is my priority for now. We are trusting God for some tours with it. We pray God gives it some miraculous wings to fly to the uttermost part of the world. Every other project will have to wait till we are convinced that the album has spread over the earth enough.
Q: Where can one get to listen to your songs or the album as a whole?
A: They are available on several online music platforms like Spotify, YouTube Music, Apple Music and so on. All you need to do is search for Sheyi Psalms.
Q: What’s your ultimate vision for Sheyi Psalms in five years?
A: Hmmm, to rise to God’s destined height for me and raise a generation of worshippers who value presence over platform.
Q: Finally, a word for someone reading this who feels too far gone to be used by God.
A: You’re never too lost for grace. In fact, God is best at using thrash to glorify himself; He uses the foolish things of this world to confound the wise. If God can rewrite my story, yours is next in line. Thanks so much for having me.
Below is a link to the album “Maaritemise” by Sheyi Psalms
https://music.youtube.com/watch?v=vldzyje5o5o&si=Kb2cbXcv7W0AxGQi
Every name carries a story, but not every story carries a testimony. Through this conversation, Sheyi Psalms reminds us that no life is too wild for grace and no talent too lost for redemption. His evolution is not just about music, it’s greatly about mission. For every dreamer standing between “yesterday” and “becoming,” this is your gentle reminder that God still rewrites stories. He can use anything.
Stay glued to OpenLetter for super highlights like this and more. Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year in advance.
I’m never too lost for grace!