Namibian music is constantly changing and evolving, with new names entering the scene every day – bringing their own unique spin to the game.
One such creative is the young and talented rapper Jean Jacques, who’s all about the type of hip-hop and trap sounds you can bop your head to, but which also have a soft and elegant side.
Since beginning a solo endeavour in 2017 under the record label LoudPack, the artist has released five projects, starting with ‘Wambo Makaveli’, work which was heavily inspired by America’s Tupac Shakur, with whom he says he shares a birthday and personal philosophy.
In the last three years, Jean Jacques has spent his time curating and perfecting his own sound, while trying to stay true to Namibian music.
His latest offering, ‘If Angels Listened To Trap’, released in early January, is a chance for him to flex his diverse musical abilities.
He says the project is an embodiment of the modern-day Namibian and the conflicts in their lives – a story he can tell having gone through and conquered his own mental health demons.
It has an edgy feel to it with its trap beats, but the remnants of poetic influence and a conscious mind can be felt throughout.
“The plan was to find the perfect mix between African acoustic sounds and modern-day trap, then top it off with relatable lyrics that bring both worlds together.”
The first song, ‘Onghaku’, featuring Slungz, is pretty mellow with a catchy hook which beckons you to “put your stress” on him. Jean Jacques says the song plays around with a late 90s soul vibe, while the lyrics carry the message of being positive through tricky situations and not judging people at first sight, but rather trying to understand their situation. The track is able to seamlessly transition between English and Oshiwambo, giving you a unique look at the way many Namibians communicate. It is an emotional song with a lot to say.
The next track, ‘Sorry’, is a more upbeat jam that serves as a sort of apology from the artist to all women.
“I expressed the plight of women in general using my little sister as a muse and basically apologised on behalf of my gender. The second verse I specifically wrote for mothers, why it is different for them and why they deserve a separate apology.”
‘Maak Kak’, a track featuring Direfox, has a more deep house influence to it, with Afrikaans lyrics and a beat that beckons you to the dance floor. It strays a bit from the sound of the other tracks, while ‘Case Closed’ and ‘Focused’ give us that typical trap sound with lyrics about cars, girls and late nights. They are fun and catchy and offer some diversity.
The production on ‘Christian Interlude’ is out of this world. The beat stands out as possibly the best on the tape, with an early 2000s nostalgic feel to it, and emotive lyrics.
The seventh and last song on ‘If Angels Listened To Trap’ is ‘Nyctophilia’, the perfect way to end this story, as a sort of sad and ironic anti-love song.
The tape touches so many topics, but the central message seems to be that being a young Namibian is complicated, and every day is different.
It isn’t your typical mainstream project, but it delivers a punch and is a treat for the ear.
“An achievement for me would be for other young Namibians to listen to this and love themselves more. I want Namibians to have more honour and respect for themselves. I want us to put ourselves on the same pedestal we put people from the west on and I want growth for Namibia and its children.”
As an upcoming artist Jean Jacques undoubtedly has quite the journey ahead of him, and with this type of quality and consistency, his is a name that won’t be easily forgotten.
Follow @JeanJacquesNA on Twitter, @JeanWhatItDo Instagram and Jean Jacques Official on SoundCloud. Download his music from the ITunes Store.
– @anne_hambuda on social media.
In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.
The Namibian uses AI tools to assist with improved quality, accuracy and efficiency, while maintaining editorial oversight and journalistic integrity.
Stay informed with The Namibian – your source for credible journalism. Get in-depth reporting and opinions for
only N$85 a month. Invest in journalism, invest in democracy –
Subscribe Now!
