Gospel singer Piesie Esther recently revealed the inspiration behind her popular 2017 track “Okuraseni,” which translates to “Villager.” In an emotional interview with Roselyn Felli on Joy Prime’s Changes show, Piesie shared the poignant story of a woman from her community who experienced severe hardship and poverty. This woman’s life took an unexpected turn due to the actions of her son, who had long been missing. The singer painted a vivid picture of the struggles the woman faced, emphasizing that her situation was dire—none of her children succeeded, and she lived in constant despair, wearing the same clothes for days. Piesie’s recounting of the mother’s plight underscores the devastating impact of poverty on families and the hope that can arise from the most desperate circumstances.
According to Piesie Esther, the turning point in this mother’s life came when her son, who had seemingly vanished, unexpectedly returned. While the village had assumed he was dead, he had actually found a way to travel abroad with the help of someone he met along the way. His return to the village in a car was nothing short of miraculous. Not only did this moment restore hope to his mother, who believed her life would never change, but it also transformed their lives significantly as he relocated her abroad. This powerful narrative highlights the themes of resilience and divine intervention, suggesting that sometimes help comes from the most unexpected places, a recurring motif in Piesie’s music that resonates deeply with her listeners.
The singer connected the themes in her song “Okuraseni” to her own life experiences, drawing parallels between the struggles of the impoverished mother and her journey from humble beginnings in Nsuta Atonsu. Piesie Esther elaborated that she, too, faced hardships in life, which make her deeply empathetic to those who suffer. Her belief in the transformative power of faith and perseverance has been pivotal in her own life and career. According to her, the stories of struggle and hope, like the one she shared, not only serve as motivation for herself but also for others who may feel trapped in their circumstances.
Piesie explained that “Okuraseni” holds a special place in her heart, not just because of its personal significance but also due to the universal message of hope it conveys. The song encapsulates the belief that no situation is too grave for God to alter and emphasizes the importance of faith during tough times. It serves as a reminder to listeners that transformation is possible, no matter the current struggles they may face. In sharing the woman’s story through her music, Piesie brings light to the exhaustive journey from despair to hope, inspiring audiences to trust in a higher power capable of changing lives.
Reflecting on her own journey in music, Piesie Esther noted that her breakthrough moment came during a divine calling that led her to Rev. Seer Tony Asamoah Boateng in Accra. It was there that she wrote her first song, “Apae” (meaning “Broken”), which marked the beginning of her successful career. Her experience showcases not only her talent but also her willingness to embrace her faith as a driving force in her life. The connection between personal hardship and artistic creation underscores how challenges can foster meaningful contributions to society, especially through music.
Ultimately, Piesie Esther’s story and the inspiration behind “Okuraseni” highlight the power of community, faith, and personal resilience. By sharing the journey of a woman who overcame heartbreaking circumstances, she resonates with many who have faced their struggles, encouraging them to believe in the possibility of change. Her own life serves as a testament to the idea that perseverance, combined with faith, can lead to miraculous transformations. Piesie continues to inspire through her music, spreading messages of hope and faith to her fans, reminding them that help can indeed come from the most unexpected places.
