From the pulsating streets of Tamale to the global stage, Jubed isn’t just making music, he’s crafting a movement. A rising force in Ghana’s explosive new wave, this genre-blurring artist stitches together the hypnotic rhythms of Afrobeats, the soul-baring intimacy of R&B, and the unshakable pride of his Northern roots into a sound that’s uniquely, undeniably his.
Fresh off his Apple Music Up Next recognition, a stamp of approval placing him alongside Africa’s brightest, Jubed unleashes his debut EP, “From The Soil” (FTS), a seven-track manifesto that’s as much a love letter to his heritage as it is a battle cry for the future. Tracks like the viral sensation “Ruwa” (a shimmering ode to resilience) and the Kojo Blak-assisted “Abena” (where lust and loyalty collide over molten beats) don’t just borrow from tradition, they reinvent it.
Inspired by the revolutionary fire of Fela Kuti, the genre-defying boldness of Burna Boy, and the wounded poetry of SZA, Jubed’s music is a sonic rebellion. Whether he’s channeling the sweat-drenched energy of Ghanaian street parties (“Jo! (Go Loko)”) or spinning heartbreak into gold over Afropop grooves (“Kilode II”), his artistry pulses with unfiltered authenticity.
But this is just the beginning. With collaborations on his radar, live shows primed to ignite audiences, and a vision that stretches far beyond borders, Jubed isn’t chasing trends, he’s building a legacy.
“I am the future,” he declares. And after one listen to “From The Soil,” you’ll believe him.
In a conversation with iMullar, Jubed talks about his sound, influences, music journey, cultural inspirations in his artistry, new project “From The Soil”, and plans for the future.
This interview has been edited for clarity and length.
Your music blends R&B and Afrobeats with a soulful, emotional edge. How do you balance the vibrant, rhythmic energy of Afrobeats with the introspective depth of R&B, and what personal experiences shape the stories you tell through this fusion?
Well, I just do it honestly. It’s my culture. I was born with it, so it should flow very easily. But I don’t just do it for myself but for others as well, so I do my best to use the knowledge I have to turn it into something edible that the whole world can have a taste of.
Growing up, were there specific moments or memories from your hometown that you consciously weave into songs like “Ruwa” or “Gabaya”?
How beautiful our mothers are, and how cultured every young woman is, and how much we are moved to every rhythm of the drums and strings played by our ancestors, and even to date.
You’ve cited influences like Fela Kuti, Burna Boy, and SZA. How do you take inspiration from such a diverse range of artists and make it your own? Is there a particular song or album from one of these icons that feels like a turning point for your creative identity?
Normally I love how they represent the culture and how much they strive to set higher goals for themselves and keep breaking them, Burna Boy’s “I told them” is one of my best albums yet, SZA’s blend of RnB is crazy as well when paid attention to Fela Kuti’s range of wisdom and longevity also inspire me etc.
You’ve been recognized by Apple Music’s Up Next program, a huge milestone. How does it feel to have this recognition from such a platform, and what’s one dream collaboration or opportunity you’re now aiming for as your sound goes global?
It’s a big big milestone and I’m humbled every step I take on the road. Dream collaborations? Hmmm, I wouldn’t say dream cause I know it will happen and I can’t wait to join forces with the likes of Sarkodie, Burna Boy, Rema, Asake, Drake, Tems, and more.
If you could create a music video for “Ruwa” that captures its essence, what would it look like?
Honestly, it’s gonna be mad. Full of Culture and strength. Very indigenous.
The title “From The Soil” suggests a deep connection to your origins. What specific moments or stories from your life inspired the EP’s themes, and how did you translate those experiences into the tracks?
I would say the name speaks for itself. FTS means from the start. I feel this is the start of something great to be born from Africa and I can’t wait. I am the future.
Which song on the EP feels like the most personal reflection of your journey?
I would say “RUWA” is my favourite cause it paved the way for me to be known and to be paid attention to.
How did you choose the artists you collaborated with to bring your vision to life?
We just contacted them and they delivered! We felt they were the best people to start the journey with since these are people I’ve always loved and cherished their music from a mile away.
Your track “Abena” features Kojo Blak. Can you share the story behind this collaboration?
KOJO Blak is family and we come from way back. I love his music so it was just right to have him hop on so we can create it beautifully.
The EP can be described as a sonic tapestry of heritage and introspection. Are there any specific Ghanaian instruments, proverbs, or cultural references you incorporated to ground the project in your roots?
The cover art has it all: the red signifies the blood of our ancestors, the black for the soil they fought for. The styling was made to pronounce the culture as well.
Tracks like “Kilode II” and “Jo! (Go Loko)” have a dynamic, uplifting vibe. Were there specific challenges or triumphs in your life that you channeled into these songs to create their infectious energy?
Well both of them talk about how deeply a man can fall and feel for a woman of their dreams, which felt real for me so I had to put it in a song
Ghana’s music scene is exploding globally. How do you see yourself carving out a unique space in this crowded, dynamic landscape, and what do you think sets your sound apart?
I aim to be part of the future, the force that sends Africa to the world. It has started happening and I’m so humbled by each step.
With the release of your EP, what are the plans for the rest of the year, and which ones are you most excited for the fans and listeners to experience?
We’ve got some surprises and shows we would be doing just for the fans and the world at large. I just can’t wait.
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