January 28, 2025 |
One of this generation’s most popular rising stars, Northern Irish rapper Jordan Adetunji – whose versatile style seamlessly incorporates his Nigerian heritage, infusing his music with the vibrant rhythms and energy of Afrobeats – has already got collaborations with Lil Baby, Bryson Tiller and Kehlani under his belt. Not to mention a Best Melodic Rap Performance nomination at the 2025 Grammys, which saw him share the spotlight Beyoncé and The Weeknd. Now he’s releasing his highly anticipated second album, A Jaguar’s Dream, and it’s a sure-fire good’un.
Born in Croydon, Adetunji relocated to Northern Ireland at the age of 10, and those former years spent in Belfast had a profound impact on shaping his sound. Immersed in the city’s rich mix of music and cultures, he drew inspiration from a variety of influences. “It inspired me to think creatively from a young age and gave me a unique perspective on blending sounds and storytelling through music,” he shared in an interview with 10.
First gaining traction in 2023, Adetunji caught the attention of Oli Sykes, frontman of the pop-metal band Bring Me the Horizon. Impressed by Adetunji’s 2020 post-punk track Wokeup!, Sykes scouted the rising star, leading to a deal with RCA Records where he has since joined major record label, Warner Records UK.
Adetunji rose to fame with his viral hit Kehlani, which racked up 1.3 million TikTok posts featuring the sound and over 350 million streams on Spotify. Chartering in 37 countries, it cracked the UK Top 10 where it stayed for over 10 weeks, even making it into the Billboard Top 40. Riding high on his success with fast growing popularity, his collaboration with Lil Baby, Options, has cemented his place in the ever-growing music industry. Options marked a career-defining moment, and its accompanying music video elevated the track’s success to new heights. Set on a luxurious yacht cruising through crystal-clear waters, the video exudes opulence and ambition.
Working with Bryson Tiller was another milestone, with Tiller not only collaborating on song, 305, but also offering guidance and advice throughout the process. “He’s such a talented artist, and collaborating with him was a major moment for me creatively,” Adetunji shared, reflecting on the experience.
Releasing the album this past Friday, Adetunji is already paving the way for success. Showcasing his genre-blending talent, the new album has generated palpable excitement amongst fans and is quickly solidifying his status as a true blue rising star.
1. Tell us about the inspiration behind your recently released mixtape ‘A Jaguar’s Dream’
A Jaguar’s Dream is about stepping into my dream world, a space where I can explore and express the battles between heartbreak, love and lust. I see myself as the jaguar – a creature that fearlessly conquers every new space it enters. That’s exactly how I approach my music and my sound, with the same boldness and determination.
2. What was the inspiration behind your latest single ‘305’ with Bryson Tiller?
305 is a manifestation of what I imagine discovering in Miami – the energy, the vibe, and the stories I’d discover there and the video brought that vision to life by being filmed right in Miami.
3. How was it working with Tiller?
It was an amazing experience. Bryson is a huge inspiration, and he gave me incredible advice throughout the process. He’s such a talented artist, and collaborating with him was a major moment for me creatively.
4. What do you hope listeners will feel when they listen to ‘A Jaguar’s Dream’
I want listeners to feel like they’re stepping into my dream world – to connect with the emotions of heartbreak, love, and lust while also feeling empowered to face whatever battles they might be going through. It’s about creating an immersive experience that resonates on a deeper level.
5. You’re a Belfast native – how does the city inspire you?
Growing up in Belfast exposed me to so many different types of music and cultures. It inspired me to think creatively from a young age and gave me a unique perspective on how to blend sounds and tell stories through music.
6. Best place to go out in Belfast?
The National – it’s got a great vibe and is always a good time.
7. Best place to grab some post-show food in Belfast?
Ivy Belfast – perfect for late-night bites!
8. You’re also inspired by your Nigerian heritage – who’s one Nigerian artist everyone should give a listen?
Rema is my favourite Nigerian artist. His sound is innovative and has influenced so much of what I love about music right now.
9. What is your dream city to perform in?
Tokyo, Japan.
10. What is coming up for you in the future that listeners can get excited about?
My live shows! Performing live is where I really bring my music to life, and I can’t wait to share that energy with everyone.
Photography courtesy of Jordan Adetunji.
