Young Jonn is one of the special ones. He is one of the creatives who delve into music from one trajectory and evolve. Born, John Saviours Udomboso, Young John has been on the scene for a while. Known for his production credits on industry hits in the 2010s, he has paid his dues and has been recognized for his exemplary work in the industry as a producer.
Already a talented singer and songwriter, Young John finally burst out in his new element with the release of Dada, off his first extended play, Love Is Not Enough (Vol. 1), which was released on 1 April 2022. The decision to release music as lead artist, although made on a whim, showed the world a different side of him and it has been magical since then. With more hits under his belt, two critically acclaimed EPs, and his debut album titled Jiggy Forever which he just dropped, Young John can do no wrong. He has successfully conquered the production landscape and enforced himself as a hitmaker on the mic too.
Growing up, did you always know you were “multi-talented”? How did you learn and develop the skills you had growing up?
Music started at a very early age. I started in the church. My dad is a pastor and I grew up in church. I played musical instruments very easily. So yeah, music started for me very early. It was just me learning instruments by myself. I will also go and play drums after church service. I also had the keyboard to myself. It was mostly self-practice
Did your family or background influence who you are today?
Yeah definitely. Cause Like I said, I grew up in the church. My mom used to play the keyboard, violin, and guitar, and she used to sing. I think all that influenced and transcended me.
Looking back, what would be one of your fondest moments as a producer?
As a producer, I have a lot of fond memories. Producing is fun. You know, producing Shakiti Bobo, Wo, Mama. All of those are fond memories to me.
At what point did you decide to switch from just being a producer to putting out records as an artist? Was it something you always knew was going to happen?
Well like I always tell everyone, I never planned it. Life happened and everything works for good so they say. Life happened, and here we are.
How did it feel the first time you saw Dada start climbing the charts and gaining the attention you got?
It’s a good feeling, you know. You put in the work and see your work being accepted generally. It’s a good feeling. That’s not even a doubt.
You dropped the remix for Dada with Davido, gave us Xtra Cool, and Love Is Not Enough, Volume 2. How instrumental was that run to you
I mean, it’s just the same general process, you know. Being in the studio means working, making beats, and receiving beats. I love to record music, and I like to work, so it was just easygoing for me. I loved the positive feedback though.
You continue on your fine form, working with multiple people, one of them being King Promise on his song Terminator. How would you describe your relationship with the Ghanaian industry?
Well, King Promise, in particular, is a cool guy. He has been my friend for a while. We tried to work on something, but we couldn’t finish up, and then Terminator happened. I am so glad I am on that project. Like I always tell him, when I perform that song, everyone goes crazy. It’s a great song.
How long did it take to put this project together, and why the name Jiggy Forever?
Jiggy is my nickname; that’s what my friends and I call ourselves, even more intimately. Jiggy just means being free and active regardless of whatever happens. That is what it means to me.
I am always recording, so I did not have it in mind that I was working on a project at the time. It was after recording all that that we decided to put the elements together for what we wanted to make the project sound like.
What influences who you feature on a song?
It is just the energy and vibes. I don’t like to force anything. However, it plays out how it’s meant to be. That’s my philosophy. If it’s right, we get it; if not, we leave it like that.
What would you tell producers who want to make the switch or vice versa?
All I can say is do whatever rocks your boat. Do whatever is right for you. Whatever is good for one person might not be good for another person. Just figure out what works for you and rock your boat.
As someone instrumental in shaping the sound, what do you feel the future of the genre and space look like for African music?
Where we are today is not where we were yesterday. Whatever happens tomorrow, African music is going to strive at the end of the day.
It’s still early days yet, but should we be expecting tour dates soon? Maybe a show in Accra?
Yes definitely. My tour starts this month. I toured Europe, Canada, and then the US. I am going to be in Ghana later in the year. Ghana is right next to us, and I love to come to Ghana.
What would you like to say to your fans and supporters around the world?
I just want to say it’s all love out here to every supporter who has ever supported me and ridden for me. It’s all love, and I appreciate it. Without you guys, I wouldn’t be here today and I never take you guys for granted.
Stream Jiggy Forever HERE
