Jonathan C. Gambela
Jonathan C. Gambela | |
|---|---|
 Jonathan C. Gambela performing live (2024) | |
| Background information | |
| Born | Jonathan Christopher Gambela Montfermeil, France |
| Genres | Gospel, Contemporary Christian music |
| Occupations | Singer, musician, pastor |
| Instruments | Vocals, keyboard, drums |
| Years active | 2010–present |
| Label | Independent |
| Website | https://eglisenouveausouffle.com |
Jonathan Christopher Gambela is a French gospel singer, multi-instrumentalist, pastor and Christian minister. He is known for his contemporary gospel music blending African musical influences with modern worship styles.
Early life and background
Jonathan C. Gambela was born in Montfermeil, France, to DR Congolese parents.[1] He grew up in a Christian household and became involved in church activities at a very young age, notably within the Mission Évangélique Grâce Abondante (MEGA), where he learned to play drums and keyboards as a child.[2]
Alongside music, he practiced judo at a competitive level before pursuing higher education in finance, communication and law in the Paris region.[3]
Music career
Beginnings
Jonathan C. Gambela began his musical career with the group Mekaddishkem, founded alongside his brother Esdras Bantsimba. The group released the EP Ambiance céleste and the album Paradisio in 2015.[4]
Solo career
In 2020, he launched his solo career with the single Holy Spirit (Esprit de Dieu), followed by Onction, whose music video reached several million views online.[5]
His debut solo album, My Heart Bows (Mon cœur fléchit), was released in March 2021. The album blends gospel with alternative rock, Congolese rumba, sebene and pop-rock influences.
In 2024, he released his second studio album, A New Day (Un jour nouveau), featuring collaborations with gospel artists such as Dena Mwana, Esdras B and B-right.[6]
In 2025, he released a live EP titled Add (Loved by God).
Live performances
- March 2024 – Performance at the Palais de la Culture d'Abidjan before an audience of approximately 4,500 people.[7]
- May 2025 – Sold-out concert at the Zénith de Paris.[8]
Collaborations
In 2024, Jonathan C. Gambela collaborated with Congolese artist Fiston Mbuyi on the song Ami Éternel.[9]
Ministry
Jonathan C. Gambela is the lead pastor of Nouveau Souffle Church, based in the Paris region. He was ordained as a prophet in 2017 and is involved in Christian teaching and worship ministry.[10]
He is married to Elisa Harmony Gambela and is the father of four children.
Discography
Studio albums
- Paradisio (2015, with Mekaddishkem)
- My Heart Bows (2021)
- A New Day (2024)
EPs
- Ambiance céleste (2015, with Mekaddishkem)
- Add (Loved by God) (2025, live)
Selected singles
- Holy Spirit (2020)
- Onction (2020)
- Chosen by God (2021)
References
- ↑ Godson, Asiama (February 3, 2022). "Jonathan C. Gambela Biography, Videos, Booking".
- ↑ "African culture highlighted in Jonathan Gambela's Christian music video" (in French). ACP. 2021. Retrieved 9 September 2025.
- ↑ "Jonathan C. Gambela: a journey shaped by faith" (in French). Strong2KinMoov. 2021. Retrieved 9 September 2025.
- ↑ "Jonathan C. Gambela drops debut album". Gospel Centric. 2021. Retrieved 9 September 2025.
- ↑ "Jonathan C. Gambela: ministry and music". JNC Blog. 2024. Retrieved 9 September 2025.
- ↑ "Jonathan C. Gambela – A New Day". Gospel Fountain. 2024. Retrieved 9 September 2025.
- ↑ "Jonathan C. Gambela performs in Abidjan". Chrétien People. 2024. Retrieved 9 September 2025.
- ↑ "Jonathan Gambela sells out Paris Zénith". Mbote.cd. 2025. Retrieved 9 September 2025.
- ↑ "Fiston Mbuyi and Jonathan Gambela collaboration". Music in Africa. 2024. Retrieved 9 September 2025.
- ↑ "Nouveau Souffle Church – About". eglisenouveausouffle.com. Retrieved 9 September 2025.