Joshua Fashina (Agbojoshu): The Quiet Groove That Moves Nigeria’s Soulful Sound

You may not know his face, but if you’ve ever been swept away by a deep, groovy bassline in a Nigerian gospel song or found yourself nodding to a rich, soul-soaked jazz rhythm—you’ve probably met the sound of Joshua Fashina, better known as Agbajoshu.

He doesn’t shout. He doesn’t crave the spotlight. But give him a bass guitar, and suddenly, everything comes alive.

A CALLING, NOT JUST A CAREER

Born and bred in Lagos, Joshua’s journey into music didn’t start with ambition—it started with love. The kind of love that grows quietly in church pews, between worship songs and Wednesday rehearsals. While others ran to the mic or the drums, young Joshua found himself drawn to the bass guitar. “I found my voice in the bass,” he says with a quiet smile. “It’s not the loudest, but it holds everything together. That’s me. In music… and in life.”

And that’s really who he is, a grounding presence, both on and off the stage. His stage name, Agbajoshu, is a reflection of his spirit. Loosely translated as “Elder Joshua” it depicts a man who’s amongst his peers is respected for his leadership, collaboration, humility, and purpose.

MUSIC THAT MINISTERS

For more than 30 years, Agbajoshu has been doing the work, faithfully, quietly, and brilliantly. He’s played with the giants: Ebenezer Obey, Tope Alabi, Tim Godfrey, Mike Aremu, Bright Gain, Agboola Shadare, Tosin Martins, Nosa, Yetunde Are, Olumide Iyun… and many more. But you’ll rarely hear him brag. From the monumental stage of The Experience Lagos to soulful jazz sets at Muson Centre, from Lagos International Jazz Festival to Beyond Music, he brings the same thing every time: depth, joy, and soul. “He doesn’t just play,” one fellow artist said.“He feels. And when you listen, you feel it too.”

THE MAN BEHIND THE MUSIC

Agbajoshu the walking bass maestro is a also a builder of people. As Music Director at several churches over the years—Holy Hill Lagos, Triumphant Christian Centre, and now at Mount Zion Church, Osapa London, Lekki, he’s been more than a leader. He’s been a mentor, a big brother, a quiet coach who sees the gold in others and helps bring it out. “He doesn’t just train your voice or fingers,” a young worship leader shared. “He builds your confidence. He lifts your spirit.”

THE SOUND OF IMOLE

One of the chapters he’s most proud of is Imole Afrika Band, which he co-founded with gifted saxophonist Segun Atoyebi. Imole means light in Yoruba, and that’s what the band is about: shining African-rooted, faith-inspired music into dark places. Their sound is rich, spiritual, earthy and full of message. A few of their songs are already online and reaching hearts far and wide.

It’s not mainstream. It’s not manufactured. But it’s real—and that’s what makes it powerful.

TWO ALBUMS, ONE HEARTBEAT

Agbajoshu has released two deeply personal albums: “Ranti” (Remember) in 2013—a soft, nostalgic reminder of God’s faithfulness and “L’oruko Jesu” (In the Name of Jesus) in 2020—a bold celebration of praise, rhythm, and hope. Both eeflections of his journey. His faith. His walk. His groove with God.

NOT AFTER FAME—AFTER PURPOSE

In today’s fast-moving, trend-chasing music world, Agbajoshu is something rare: a man who knows exactly why he plays—and Who he plays for. “I just want to serve,” he says. “If one bassline I play can help someone feel joy again, or remember God’s love… then I’ve done my job.”

He’s not done yet not even close. The groove is still growing, the faith is still deepening, and the message? It’s still loud and clear coming through a quietly powerful bassline.

Agbajoshu reminds us that not every star shines with noise. Some shine with consistency, grace, and groove.

And Nigeria’s music scene is better, deeper, richer, truer,because he’s in it.