Veteran Nigerian gospel singer and songwriter, Toun Soetan, popularly known as Evangelist Shouet, has passed away at the age of 73.
The respected gospel minister was widely recognised as the original composer of the popular Christian chorus Darling Jesus, a song that has remained a staple in church worship across Nigeria for decades.
Reacting to the news of her passing, Kunle Bakare, former Secretary of the Oyo State chapter of the Entertainment Writers Association of Nigeria, described the late singer as a divinely gifted minister whose music carried deep spiritual messages.
According to Bakare, the gospel icon will also be remembered for establishing a music college where she trained many gospel musicians who are now prominent in the industry.
“The late gospel music player will also be remembered for her music college, where she trained so many gospel music players, most of whom are reigning today,” he said.
The death of the gospel legend was also confirmed by gospel musician Peters Olaniyi Olusegun in a Facebook post.
“We just lost another legend this morning, Mummy Toun Soetan. May the Lord be with the family and Daddy Titus Soetan,” he wrote.
Beyond the widely loved Darling Jesus, Evangelist Soetan was known for several other inspiring gospel songs, including Ke Pe Jesu and Cast Your Burdens, which became popular during Christian worship services and revival gatherings.
Her music ministry and mentorship have left a lasting impact on Nigeria’s gospel music scene and on generations of worship leaders.
