Owen Uriah

Owen Uriah's journey began in the vibrant, multicultural "melting pot" of Aston, Birmingham, in the 1970s, where songs like "To Be Young, Gifted and Black" permeated the streets.

His initial foray was with sound systems, but he was truly inspired by watching his brother-in-law and Victor Yusufu play instruments. He learned drums and joined the admired band Mystic Foundation, but soon discovered his singing talent, encouraged by Jabari Andrew and Edwin Rowe. This led to recording the reggae-gospel love song “Flesh of My Flesh,” which achieved success in reggae charts and local radio.

A pivotal moment arrived in 1985 with his commitment to Jesus Christ. Not being from a church background, Owen struggled with traditional gospel music, preferring reggae icons. His attempt to introduce his reggae-gospel song in church was met with resistance, with some even trying to “deliver him from the demon of reggae music.”

Despite this, Owen continued to sing in nightclubs to support himself, developing a unique act combining Motown and soul songs with comedy after an accidental stage fall. This successful mainstream career led to performances at venues like Pontins and a Channel 4 show offer. However, during a performance, an inner voice, which Owen believes was God, urged him to sing to people’s “future” rather than their “past.” He abruptly ended his mainstream career, despite the financial implications, and returned to church to align with God’s will.

Years later, the same individual who had opposed his reggae music lauded his new gospel song, “We Are More Than Conquerors” (released around 2002–2003), marking his return to gospel recording and extensive touring across the UK, Switzerland, America, and Jamaica, a period that brought awards and recognition.

Yet, Owen observed a detrimental focus on album sales and industry competition. A cancelled New York concert became a turning point. Hearing “When the Music Fades” in Connecticut, he realized his ministry had become “all about the music.” This revelation prompted him to settle into local church ministry, undergo Bible College training, and become a full-time minister in 2011.

Owen Uriah now serves as the senior minister at Perry Beeches Baptist Church in Great Barr, a role he has held for ten years. He credits music with opening doors for ministry and support. Beyond music, he is deeply committed to men’s groups, drawing on 25 years of experience, and has authored two books, Keeping It Real and The Trouble With Men.