Raheim Betty: The Resilient Story Behind Jamaica’s 2025 Gospel Star

Raheim Betty’s journey to becoming Jamaica’s 2025 Gospel Star is one of resilience and a story we can all learn from. Facing setbacks and challenges head-on, Raheim shows what it really takes to succeed; faith, purpose, and grit. After two previous attempts at the competition, he decided to try again. His persistence and trust in God are a clear reminder to never give up on your dreams. We sat down with Raheim to hear more about his inspiring victory.

Raheim, congratulations on becoming Jamaica’s 5th Gospel Star! Before we talk about the big win, we’d like to rewind a bit. Tell us, what sparked your love for music?

RAHEIM: My love for music comes from a place of fight, courage and rejection. Music was the one thing I found easy to do. It’s what I called my place of solace because on the days I had to constantly defend myself and move forward from the many rejections, Music made me feel safe and powerful.

Your mother said she noticed your gift at age 11 while you were at Knox College. Talk to us about your early journey with music.

RAHEIM: My musical journey started at Knox College. A friend of mine, Khaleem James, heard me singing to myself in the bathroom and told me to audition for the choir. At the time, I never knew the basics of being on a choir. Never knew harmony and had no real choir technique and experience.

I took up the challenge with the help of Mr Joseph, Mr James and some senior members like Hilary Rattery, Michael Champagnie, Jamie Palmer and Sutanya Johnson. As time went on, I became independent with my harmonies and represented the school at various events and competitions. I later transferred to Iona high school where I continued using my gift.

You’ve entered other singing competitions, including Digicel Rising Stars. How did those past experiences help prepare you for where you are now?

RAHEIM: Those competitions prepared for possible rejections and accepting them as redirections. I became emotionally aware of who I am and what I have to offer. The experiences garnered from the other competitions made me a better competitor and stronger performer.

This was your third time entering Jamaica Gospel Star. Honestly, most people would give up and so your story is incredibly inspiring. What fueled your determination and what made this year feel different?

RAHEIM: My hunger for success fueled my determination, especially this year when I was made to feel I can’t accomplish anything or survive anything. This year, I faced a lot of trials but instead of it starving my hopes and dreams, it made me believe in Jesus even more and that is what carried me to the top.

You didn’t tell your family you had entered until you were named a finalist. Why keep it quiet, and how did they respond when they found out?

RAHEIM: We have a saying that says “we must keep our moves private until it is confirmed. ”I never got the unction to say anything until the time was right. My mom was happy and we continued to keep it wrapped and social media-free until JCDC was ready to reveal the top 10.

As a finalist, you were one of the opening acts for CeCe Winans during her ‘More Than This’ tour stop in Jamaica on Emancipation Day. How did it feel to share the stage with such a gospel legend?

RAHEIM: It was awesome feeling and opportunity. It reminded me of the time I got the chance to sing for Shirley Caeser and Jonathan Nelson on stage. The difference this time around was that I never got the opportunity to talk to the legendary Cece Winans but I must say she is a world class singer/worshipper. It was just awesome just to be there.

Your winning performance was “I Must Tell Jesus.” Why that song, and what message were you hoping to deliver through it?

RAHEIM:  “I must tell Jesus” ministered to me first before I could relate it to those who are watching me. I wanted my audience, fans or supporters to understand that Jesus should be the person you run to with all your problems. 

You were visibly emotional when you won. Can you share what was going through your mind the moment your name was called as the winner? 

RAHEIM: Finally! All the “Nos” became a “Yes.”

Your mom said she knew it was your time and even rushed to the stage to celebrate. How important is it to have the support of family and friends when pursuing your goals?

RAHEIM: You can’t do much without people! God uses people to help go through the valleys and mountains of life’s lofty terrain. It is important that we have a support system to lean on. My mom has been so supportive especially in my times of difficulty and trauma. My mom is a super woman and I thank God for her. Family is everything!

Now that you’ve won, what’s next for Raheim Betty? What can Jamaica expect from its 2025 Gospel Star?

RAHEIM: What’s Next for me? A new start to my life; a redemption story for the history books. I will be doing my first album and travel to several parts of the world sharing the gospel of Jesus.