Ghanaian-based singer and songwriter Baaba J finally reveals her first single of 2024, Sunshine, a follow-up to her most recent body of work Okay Baby, Letʼs Do This. Working with Grammy-nominated producer, GuiltyBeatz, on the production of the track, the multifaceted emerging star has released her new single as she eases us into a new year ahead filled with fresh new music.
Drawn in with strong guitar licks, Baaba J laces her distinctly addictive voice over melodic tones and irresistible rhythmic peaks, led by drum patterns; Sunshine is a heartwarming track that will truly cement her captivating presence across the Afro indie and alternative scene. Wrapping together a unique blend of Soul sounds, contemporary Pop, and Afro-indie elements, Sunshine is a beautiful example of her Art, effortlessly personifying Baaba Jʼs songwriting skills in just under three minutes.
Speaking on the meaning behind the track, Baaba J says, “Sunshine is a song about acceptance. Accepting that, the only constant in life is change. It is a story about two lovers who have reached a point in their lives where they have to go their separate ways. One to sunshine, one to rain. Rain and sunshine are used as metaphors in this song to describe the different phases of life these two lovers have to face on their own. Nobody wants to let go of a good thing, so the reality of letting go of a lover is a difficult experience. But in sunshine, we let go peacefully. We wish our past lovers the best of luck and the warmest of love. We accept that love lost leaves room for new love and sometimes although the sun looks good on the other side, what we may need is rain.
Baaba J started writing her own music in high school under the alias BBJ. She sought out local producers whose sound matched the production style in her head and started recording demo songs. Initially, she made music for herself as a way to escape the monotonous nature of life until she later released music because it became “too good to keep to myself.” She describes her music as “message heavy Indie/Alter-native Afro”, and wants to show people they “can be unconventional and still achieve your goals”.
Drawing inspiration from the likes of Koffee, Asa, and Imagine Dragons to name a few, Baabaʼs unique artistry effortlessly creates room for her to weave together smooth Soul, Afro-indie, and folk sounds, with an alternative twist. Her take on music allows her to embrace her own unique sonic style, a distinctive sound that sets her apart from her peers.
Not only is Baaba a rising star, but she is a respected voice and artist who has been best described as an “exceptional musical talent who has gradually garnered dedicated listeners for her rich vocals”. Currently honing an impressive 11,000+ monthly listeners on Spotify alone, Baaba J notably continues to authentically grow her fanbase from strength to strength through her plethora of original music.
Jemima Baaba Haywood-Dadzie (professionally known as Baaba J) is a singer, songwriter, and filmmaker from Tema, Ghana. Growing up with aspirations to excel in her passions, Baaba floated between dreams of being in the army and playing football until she finally landed on music and filmmaking in her teens. As a child, she split her time between Teshie Rasta, Santa Maria, and Tema – three distinct Ghanaian suburbs that gave her a unique perspective on society and helped shape the foundations of her worldview.
Baaba J is ready to take her music globally as she prepares us for a season of new music to dive into. Early last year, she was co-signed by streaming giant, Spotify, where she was championed as Spotify EQUAL Africa artist for April 2023, while also being spotlighted in their New Music Friday and Afro Indie playlist selects. Baaba J continues to keep listeners gripped and excited to hear more with every new release, making her one to watch on her road to stardom.
