Meet Jussoul, new face of pop, soul, and afropop — Guardian Life — The Guardian Nigeria News – Nigeria and World News

Dr Soul is now Jussoul, a reputation change that mirrors his journey of inventive reinvention and his distinctive potential to convey pop, soul, and Afropop collectively in good concord.

Jussoul, born Chukwuka John Okafo, grew up in Nigeria the place his musical journey started on the age of 14 when he defied his father’s needs by sneaking out to recording studios, nurturing his ardour for music.

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Regardless of familial expectations to pursue a medical profession, Jussoul balanced his tutorial endeavors together with his musical aspirations. He attended Ogba Main College and Command Day Secondary College, finishing his secondary schooling in 2011. He later enrolled at Avalon College College of Medication in Curaçao earlier than transferring to Caribbean Medical College, the place he graduated in 2020.

In 2021, Jussoul gained recognition as a high 40 contestant on American Idol, fascinating audiences together with his soulful performances. That very same yr, he launched his debut single, “Lucid Desires,” adopted by tracks like “Soul Fireplace” and “Beneath The Mistletoe” in 2022, and “Arduous Love” in 2023.

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February 2024 noticed the discharge of “Love within the 90s,” a nostalgic monitor impressed by a pair’s love story from the early ’90s. The track charted on Deezer Nigeria, the place it reached 1, and has garnered over 200,000 streams on music streaming providers.

In August 2024, Jussoul unveiled his debut EP, The Youthful Me, a seven-track venture exploring themes of ache, therapeutic, and triumph. The EP acquired essential popularity of its relatable themes and common enchantment.

All through his profession, Jussoul has opened for outstanding artists akin to P-Sq., 9ice, Omah Lay, and Bella Shmurda, showcasing his versatility and dedication to his craft. He cites Tiwa Savage, Sam Smith, The Weeknd, Bruno Mars, and Giveon as his musical inspirations, seamlessly mixing parts of soul, Afropop, and R&B in his work.

In December 2024, Jussoul introduced his rebranding from Dr Soul, signifying a brand new chapter in his inventive evolution. He expressed that the change displays a deeper connection to his music and a dedication to authenticity.

Jussoul’s discography contains the EP The Youthful Me (2024) and singles akin to “Lucid Desires,” “Soul Fireplace,” “Beneath The Mistletoe,” “Arduous Love,” and “Love within the 90s.”

Jussoul’s distinctive mixture of genres and real storytelling has made him a standout within the music scene. His music resonates with listeners, constructing a powerful reference to audiences round the world.