Draft:Thomas Yawson

Nationality: Ghanaian

Occupation: Pastor, Gospel Musician, Songwriter, Worship Leader, Lecturer in Church Music and Worship, Conference Speaker

Years Active: 1979 – Present

Spouse: Lydia Yawson (Eldest of the Tagoe Sisters)

Church Affiliation: Christ Apostolic Church – Sunyani, Harvesters Bible Church – Kumasi, International Central Gospel Church (ICGC) – Accra

Music Genre: Gospel, Contemporary Christian, Choral Music, African Worship

Notable Albums: The Great Provider, Fa Woho Bo Nyame, Happy Day, Wadom Doo So, and more.

Early Life and Education Rev. Dr. Thomas Harry Yawson, popularly known as known as Rev. Yawson was born in Accra, Ghana, into a family with strong musical and Christian values. He grew up in a devout household where gospel music played a significant role in shaping his faith and passion for music.

Yawson pursued his secondary education at Sunyani Secondary School, where he was actively involved in the school choir and held leadership roles in Christian fellowships. He later furthered his education at the University of Ghana, School of the Word and Faith School in Kumasi, Philippines Baptist Seminary, and took modular courses with ICGC in Ghana.

During his youth, he became the National President of the Christ Apostolic Church Choir and led Heavenly Royals, a Christian music group.

Music Career Rev. Yawson's music journey began in the 1980s when he started writing and arranging songs for Ghanaian musical groups. While with Christ Apostolic Church, he formed his own group called Living Waters in Sunyani. He later joined the B'SOYAYA Band and Sweet Melodies, which allowed him to refine his musical talent. His transition into gospel music became his life’s calling, leading to collaborations with some of Ghana’s most celebrated gospel artists.

Musical Collaborations and Impact Rev. Yawson has worked with several prominent gospel musicians, including; Ola Williams, The Tagoe Sisters, Harvesters Band, Soul Winners, and Many others. His ability to compose, arrange, and produce spiritually uplifting and culturally resonant gospel music has made him a household name in Ghanaian gospel music.

Notable Albums and Songs Rev. Thomas Yawson has released several well-received gospel albums, including: The Great Provider (1990) Happy Day (1994) Fa Woho Bo Nyame (1996) Wala O Wala (2000) Great Provider Remix (2003) Barak and Shabak It’s My Turn Signature Songs: "Fa Woho Bo Nyame" "Wadom Dooso So" "Oye Jesus" "Never Give Up" "Wo Gye Me So" "Adamfo Bi" "Jesus Is Faithful" As of 2025, he has written over 175 hit songs for himself and others.

Ministry and Pastoral Work Beyond his music career, Rev. Yawson serves as the Resident Pastor of the International Central Gospel Church (ICGC) – House of Refuge in Ashongman Estate, Accra, Ghana. His ministry focuses on worship, evangelism, and mentoring musicians to use their talents for the Kingdom of God. He is a renowned preacher and speaker at Christian conferences and worship seminars, where he teaches on the power of worship and the role of music in Christian ministry.

Leadership and Teaching Rev. Yawson is a key figure in Ghana’s music industry. Since 1989, he has trained over 9,500 musicians and worship leaders through workshops. He has held various leadership roles, including:

Director of Gospel Music – Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) 2nd Vice President – Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) Vice President – Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) Lecturer – MUSIGA Academy, specializing in music composition and worship leading His teachings focus on developing theological depth and musical excellence in gospel artists, ensuring that their craft aligns with Christian principles.

Awards and Recognitions Rev. Yawson has received multiple awards for his contribution to gospel music in Ghana, including: King David’s Award for Best Video Clip (1998) Best Songwriter, Best Performer, and Overall Award Winner (1998) National Gospel Award – Male Performer of the Year (1999) Songwriter of the Year (1999) Various awards from the U.S. and Ghana for his songwriting contributions. He has also served as a judge on many reality shows, including the Vodafone Ghana Music Awards (VGMA).

Legacy and Influence Rev. Yawson’s legacy as a gospel artist, composer, and worship leader continues to inspire many in Ghana and beyond. His ministry and music have taken him to several countries, including: United States of America Canada United Kingdom France Germany Australia New Zealand Other parts of Europe and Africa His compositions have become staples in churches across Ghana, and his teachings continue to shape the next generation of gospel musicians.

Personal Life Rev. Thomas Yawson is married to Lydia Yawson, the eldest of The Tagoe Sisters, one of Ghana’s most famous gospel duos. Together, they have two children, Steve and Rachel. His family remains an integral part of his ministry and music career.

Current Work Rev. Yawson is currently working on new songs for himself and other artists. His influence in the gospel music industry remains strong as he continues to mentor, teach, and inspire musicians and worship leaders globally.