Kenyan musician Fidel Shammah, popularly known as Charisma, has opened up about growing up in a strict Christian home with his father serving as a pastor.
He shared the reflection on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, while speaking about the death of American gospel singer Ron Kenoly, who died at the age of 81. The singer used the moment to explain how deeply gospel music shaped his childhood and personal journey.
“As many of y’all know, I grew up in a staunch Christian home with my dad being a pastor,” Charisma said.
He explained that gospel music was a constant presence in their household, forming part of their everyday life from an early age.
Charisma said one of the most common fixtures in their home was Ron Kenoly’s music.
“One of the most common fixtures in our house was Rin Kenoly’s music,” he said. He added that the music was always playing and became part of who they were growing up.
Role of gospel music in his upbringing
He explained that the music was not only played by their parents.
“His albums were always on replay, and it was not even our dad or mum playing them but my bro and I,” Charisma said.
He noted that the songs stayed with him over the years and still remain familiar.
“Even today I know all his songs by heart,” he added.
Charisma said the impact of the music never faded, even as he grew older and built his own career. He described Kenoly as a legend whose work left a lasting mark on his life.
Charisma also recalled watching Ron Kenoly perform live many years later.
“What a legend. I had the chance many years later to watch him live, and what a show,” he said. He mentioned that Kenoly was already advanced in age at the time, but still delivered a powerful performance.
He said the experience left a strong impression on him as a musician.
Reflecting on Kenoly’s long journey, Charisma said, “Hopefully I can have a long, fulfilling career, something close to his.”
He ended his tribute with the words, “Rest in peace RON KENOLY.”
Born in 1944, Kenoly gained recognition through albums such as Lift Him Up, God Is Able, and Sing Out. His music helped introduce energetic, multicultural praise styles to churches and influenced worship in Africa and other regions.
