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By Christian Agadibe
They are two identical twins who are like each other’s mirror images. Both are passionate about making fantastic, soul-stirring music with their saxophones. But somehow, for higher education, and for a good reason, they majored in two different disciplines. While Innocent studied cybersecurity, his twin brother, Marvelous, went for pharmaceutical chemistry. They are now able to jointly benefit from what their different fields taught them. In this interview, Innocent and Marvelous part the curtain a bit, to give us a glimpse into their lives and career journey in musical entertainment and worship ministration.
Can you tell us your names and a little bit about where you’re from?
We’re Marvelous Taye Ayodele and Innocent Kehinde Ayodele -twin brothers, together known as Twinsax Ayodele. We were born in Ilorin, Kwara State, and originally hail from AiyetoroGbedde, Kogi State. Our journey in musical entertainment officially began in Ilorin, where we held our first event as Twinsax back in 2013. From there, it grew in Bauchi and matured in IleIfe, Osun State. These days, we live between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.
How did you both get into music, and when did you decide to collaborate as Twinsax?
Music found us early. We were introduced to the trumpet by Mrs. Martha Ogbonna, and the saxophone just felt like the next step. It was like God was already writing the script — we were just walking into it. The name Twinsax came later, but the harmony started long before.
Your sound is different. How do you mix gospel, jazz, and African vibes so well?
We grew up immersed in deep gospel worship and traditional African rhythms. Add to that the freedom of jazz, and what you hear is a sound that reflects both our spiritual walk and our cultural identity. It’s not a formula, it’s a flow.
Growing up in Nigeria, how did your environment and culture shape the kind of music you create today?
Nigeria taught us how to feel music. From church choirs to family devotionals, we were raised in an atmosphere where music wasn’t just sound, it was expression. Our culture taught us reverence, community, and the power of heartfelt worship.
What’s your creative process like when crafting a new piece? Do you write separately or together? Who usually starts the melody?
It’s a natural exchange. Sometimes Marvelous is humming something randomly, other times Innocent is playing around with an idea during rehearsal. We bounce off each other until it feels right. There are no set rules – just shared sensitivity.
Can you describe a time when God ministered to you through your music?
There was a moment at one of our early Gratitude Concerts, we had rehearsed, but when it was time, we let the Holy Spirit take charge. The music shifted. People were healed. Miracles happened. That day reminded us that while we prepare, God is the One who moves. We’re just the vessels.
You both studied science and tech. How have your academic backgrounds influenced your music or gospel ministry approach?
Innocent studied cybersecurity and Marvelous studied pharmaceutical chemistry. Those fields taught us discipline, structure, and analytical thinking, which now help in how we plan concerts, manage technical setups, and connect with people across platforms.
What made you start Gratitude Concert? And how did it grow so big?
We started it in 2017 at Oduduwa University. It came from a deep need to just say “Thank You” to God. We didn’t expect it to become what it is now, but people connected to the spirit behind it. It wasn’t about us, grace carried it.
What were some of the early challenges you faced building this concert, and how did you overcome them?
We faced it all: financial limits, logistical gaps, doubt from people around. But God always sent the right support: mentors, fellow musicians, volunteers. The vision attracted the help we needed, one step at a time.
What makes Gratitude Concert different from other gospel events?
The vision is the main difference. Gratitude Concert isn’t just about music; it’s a worship experience centred on pure thanksgiving. It’s not performance-driven. Rather, it is presence driven. In a nutshell that is the difference.
What’s it like being twins in a music duo? Do you ever disagree on things?
Absolutely, we’re still human (laughs). But being twins comes with a kind of built-in understanding. Even when we disagree, we align quickly. There’s trust, and there’s grace.
You’ve played in different countries. How has that changed your music or helped you grow?
Performing in places like Ghana and the United Kingdom has expanded our perspective. We’ve seen how music truly transcends language. Every new location deepens our purpose and sharpens how we minister to different audiences.
In today’s music world, especially for young creatives, distractions abound. How do you stay grounded in your calling?
We constantly go back to our “Why?” We weren’t called to trend, we were called to serve. Staying prayerful, being accountable, and surrounding ourselves with people who care more about our purpose than our popularity has helped us stay grounded.
Have there been seasons when you questioned this path? How did God redirect or reaffirm your purpose?
Yes, we have had such moments, especially when resources were low or things felt slow. But then we’d meet someone who shares how a song or a concert changed the person’s life. Those are the moments God uses to remind us why we started.
What do you believe is missing in today’s gospel music scene that you hope to help restore?
In one word: sincerity. There’s often more focus on performance than presence. We want to help bring back that space where gospel music leads people into an encounter with God, not just a show.
If a young saxophonist came to you today, what’s the one lesson you’d want them to learn early?
Let your saxophone carry worship, not ego. Learn your scales, but more importantly, know your source. Skill will open doors, but humility will keep them open.
What’s coming next for Twinsax? Are there any new songs, concerts, or surprises?
Yes! We’re hosting UK editions of Gratitude Concert in Cardiff and Manchester, and working on live studio sessions, new collaborations, and maybe even a single this year. Stay close — it’s about to get louder.
Where do you see Gratitude Concert in five years? What’s your dream for it?
We want to see it become a global movement. Not just a concert series, but a culture. We dream of Gratitude Concerts happening in different countries, in different languages — all echoing one message: thank You, Lord.
How can people support your ministry and stay connected with what you’re doing?
Follow us on Instagram @Twinsax1. Pray with us. Show up. Worship with us. Provide financial support and sponsorship for our events and projects, and purchase our merchandise. Share the music with someone who needs it. Gratitude grows when it’s shared, and we’d love for you to be part of that journey.
