Jamz

JAMZ : THE MELODIC TRAILBLAZER MAKING HER MARK IN AFRO-RnB

When I sat down with Jamgbadi Oluwabukola Anita, better known as Jamz, I wasn’t just meeting a rising star in the Nigerian music scene, I was meeting a storyteller, a visionary, and someone who pours her heart into every note she sings. From her unique fusion of Afrobeats and RnB to her deeply personal lyrics, Jamz is an artist who captivates audiences with her authenticity and raw emotion.

Our conversation was a deep dive into her world, her inspirations, her creative process, and how she stays grounded in the whirlwind of the music industry. Here’s what she shared.

THE EARLY DAYS: A SPARK IGNITED IN THE CHURCH CHOIR

Jamz’s journey into music began in a place familiar to many Nigerian artists, the church choir. “The choir was my first stage. It’s where I learned to use my voice not just to sing, but to connect with people.”

That connection has become a cornerstone of her artistry. Inspired by legends like Fela Kuti and Asa, Jamz has crafted a sound that feels both fresh and deeply rooted in tradition. “Fela taught me the power of rhythm, and Asa showed me how to tell stories through music,” she shared. “I wanted to create something that honoured my roots but also felt like me.

THE CREATIVE PROCESS

When I asked Jamz about her creative process, she said, “To be honest, it looks a little different every day.”

Jamz mentioned that inspiration can strike at any moment. “Sometimes a line or melody will show up in my head, and if I like it enough, I’ll expand on it. Other times, it starts with a beat in the studio or a concept that’s been stuck in my head. I could go for a walk, play a beat pack, and try to write while walking. When I get a clear sense of the melody, I start working on the words, and then I move to recording.”

This fluid approach allows Jamz to create music that feels organic and deeply personal. Her songs are a reflection of her journey, her thoughts, and her emotions. Something her listeners can feel in every note.

''COME RAIN, COME SUN, I DON'T WANNA LOSE YA''

Jamz’s latest single, "Lose Ya", released in 2024, is a perfect example of her ability to blend emotion with artistry. The song is a heartfelt Afrobeats track that explores the complexities of love with its infectious rhythm and poignant lyrics, "Lose Ya" showcases Jamz’s talent for creating music that is both deeply personal and universally relatable.

The track is a testament to her growth as an artist, featuring lush production from Nyrp, soulful vocals, and a melody that stays with you long after the song ends. "Lose Ya" is more than just a song, it’s an emotional journey that highlights Jamz’s ability to connect with her audience on a profound level.

STAYING GROUNDED: FAMILY, FRIENDS, AND REMEMBERING THE ‘WHY’

The music industry can be a rollercoaster, but Jamz has found her way to stay rooted through it all.

“It gets crazy,” she admitted. “People always tell me, I have not seen anything yet!’ But honestly, my family and friends keep me grounded. They’ve been there through the toughest moments, and I’m so grateful for that. They remind me of who I am when things feel like they’re too much.”

Another thing that keeps her steady? Remembering her “why.” “No matter how chaotic things get, I always come back to why I started this in the first place. That’s what keeps me focused, even when everything else feels like it’s spinning out of control.”

For Jamz, staying grounded isn’t just about surviving the chaos, it’s about staying true to herself and the passion that started it all.

UNWINDING: MUSIC, PODCASTS, AND GOOD VIBES

When she’s not writing or performing, Jamz enjoys simple pleasures. “I used to be such a beach girl, till the beaches around me had to close. Nowadays, I either have some me time and listen to music or a podcast, or I just chill with my friends. We have interesting conversations and sometimes we try new things, but we always have an amazing time.”

I couldn’t resist asking Jamz about the songs that inspire her. If she were to create a playlist of “Jamz Essentials,” what five songs by other artists would be on it?

Here’s what she shared:

1. Sza: Snooze
2. Wizkid: Frames
3. Tems: Replay
4. Santi: Rapid Fire
5. Jorja Smith: Burn

WHAT’S NEXT FOR JAMZ?

As our conversation came to an end, I had to ask what’s next for Jamz. With "Lose Ya" making waves and her star steadily rising, she’s poised to become one of Nigeria’s most influential artists.

“I’m just getting started,” she said with a smile. “There’s so much more I want to explore, so many stories I want to tell. I want to keep growing, keep connecting, and keep inspiring people through my music.”

And if her journey so far is any indication, there’s no doubt she’ll do just that. Jamz is more than an artist, she’s a force, a voice, and a storyteller who’s here to leave her mark on the world.

So, if you haven’t yet tuned into her music, now’s the time. Start with "Lose Ya", and let yourself be swept away by the heartfelt melodies and raw emotion that define Jamz. Trust me, you won’t regret it.

Credits:
Artiste: Jamgbadi Oluwabukola Anita

Photography: Nsikanabasi Effiong

Styling: MW STUDIOS (Ogungbe Similoluwa & Osuji Ijenna)

Words: Deolu Samuel

Creative Direction: Lemon Vinyl

Location: Lagos, Nigeria