From the streets to the music studio

Gospel artist Guardian Angel aka Phaxad Peter tells his moving story of transformation

The life of street children is one that is normally filled with misery and hopelessness. How did you end up as a street child?

My mother had lost her job and so we had to live in Kibera where life was a bit hard for me. There were so many hardships and challenges to face; hence I felt the streets would be the only option. And so I was forced to flee to the streets. I roamed the streets of Nairobi for about two years before I was arrested and taken to jail.

What was that like?

That must have been the hardest part of my life. It was not easy for me to go through that at the age of nine. But getting born again while in jail was a life changing experience altogether. Life started making sense from that very moment and I do not regret the decision I made. I stayed there for a few months until I was taken to an approved school after which I went back home to my mum in Kibera.

Did your upbringing contribute in any way in the life you led in your early years, both as a child and a teenager?

Being rejected by my father and having to be brought up by a single mother was quite a contributor in the reckless life I led. I lacked a strong family support system. But I believe my mother tried her best to provide what I needed.

How were you able to make it out?

When I left jail, I was taken back home to my mother and our life together started again. I was lucky to get sponsorship for my education by Ahadi Children’s Home and that gave me hopes that my future would be bright. My mother also got job that would sustain us, hence life changed for the better for us.

Was enrolling into school to get an education of any importance to you?

Yes it was. It has helped me advance in my music career and I thank God for that opportunity. While in school, I joined the percussion band as a drummer. I always attended the National Music Festivals and by God’s grace became the first student to ever scoop 10 awards. This gave me the opportunity to record my first single “I Surrender” a reggae song way back when I was in Form Two.

Many know you as ‘Guardian Angel’, but your real names are Phaxad Peter. Do the two names in any way bring out different personalities in you?

Well, they are just names that I love being referred to. Guardian Angel is my career name while Phaxad Peter is my official name. However, they do not change my personality in any way. It remains the same.

When did you realize you could sing?

I have been singing since I was a small kid and I guess I was meant to be a musician right from a young age.

How would you describe your style of music?

I have done songs of many genres, including reggae, dancehall and others. I also use different dialects to be able to reach as many people as possible. I will use any means available to minister the gospel and win souls to the kingdom.

The song “Amazing Grace” is one that particularly captures my heart. Is there anything special about it?

I did Amazing Grace when I was still in high school. The song always reminds me that I live by the grace of God. It is the same grace that selected a wretch and someone who was below standards like me. It’s a special song to me. I have released other songs such as Liwe, Usikonde and Pendo, which have given me multiple nominations in a few awards including Groove Awards, Mwafaka Awards and The Xtreem Awards.

What stands out about Guardian Angel?

I work with a vision and mission. My vision is to go global testifying and ministering of God’s grace especially through my music to encourage, inspire and win souls to the kingdom. My mission is to see people’s lives change through my ministry and accept Christ as their personal savior.

What do you hope to achieve in the near future?

I hope to grow my record label (7heavenmusic) to greater heights and be able to see young talented artists become great people in this society.