Gospel singer Nathaniel Bassey has reacted to a viral video of English footballer Daniel Crowley performing his song ‘Jesus Iye’ during a faith-based retreat.
Crowley, who plays as a midfielder for Milton Keynes Dons, sang the worship song as part of his initiation at the Ballers in God retreat — a five-day annual gathering where professional footballers from across Europe come together to deepen their faith and recharge spiritually before returning to their clubs and families.
In the video, the 27-year-old was seen holding a microphone while passionately singing the song word for word. His fellow footballers cheered him on, clapping and drumming on tables in support. The heartwarming moment has since gone viral on social media.
Reacting on Instagram on Wednesday, Bassey reposted the video and praised the footballer’s energy and enthusiasm. He also made a lighthearted joke about Crowley’s attempt to pronounce a Yoruba word in the song.
He wrote, “Many tags on this.
Yes ooo… sing my people. Jesus all the way..
By the way, did He say ‘baba’ or ‘paba’? 😂
“Dan Crowley at the Ballers in God retreat sang ‘Jesus He is’ by Nathan Bassey for his Ballers in God initiation song.
“The Ballers in God retreat is an annual five-day gathering where professional footballers from across Europe come together to deepen their faith, build community and recharge spiritually and mentally before returning to clubs and families.”
The video drew reactions from fans and celebrities who celebrated the powerful expression of faith.
Actress Juliana Olayode wrote, “Is he standing on his chair? 😂😂😂😂😂 OMG I love et!!!! It’s his excitement for me 😂😂😂😂 the ‘baba’ and tidididididi 😂😂😂😂”
Financial coach Sola Adesakin added, “His excitement about ‘Baba’. Like he couldn’t wait. May Jesus continue to be glorified 🩷”
Another Instagram user, Titilope Ibilola, commented, “Shifting the culture 🙌🏽 We can never go back o! It’s already too late o 🔥🔥🔥”
‘Jesus Iye’ was released by Nathaniel Bassey on November 3, 2023, under Bethel Encounter Studios. The song features on his 2024 album The River, which also includes tracks like ‘Yahweh Sabaoth Overflow’ and ‘Jehovah Shammah.’
Dan Crowley, who was born in Coventry to Irish parents, has represented both England and the Republic of Ireland at youth level.
Known for his creativity and flair on the pitch, Crowley has previously played for clubs in England and the Netherlands before joining MK Dons in January 2025.
