By Ayo Onikoyi

For Ige Olushoga Jacobs a.k.a Ju’life King, the rhythmic pulse of highlife music isn’t just a genre; it’s a heartbeat that echoes through his soul.

Born in Abeokuta, Nigeria, and now living in the US, this talented artist has managed to fuse his love for highlife with contemporary sounds in a way that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly new.

 His latest track, “My Love,” is a testament to that passion, blending the rich, melodic textures of traditional highlife with modern influences. For Ju’life King, the song is more than just music—it’s a love letter to his heritage and a bridge between two worlds.

 “The inspiration for ‘My Love’ came from a deep appreciation for the rhythms of highlife music,” Ju’life King revealed. “I wanted to merge those traditional elements with contemporary sounds that resonate with today’s listeners. The song captures the essence of love, with uplifting melodies and heartfelt lyrics, making it both relatable and timeless.”

Ju’life King made a conscious decision to sing “My Love” in Yoruba, a choice that highlights his commitment to preserving his cultural heritage. “I chose to sing ‘My Love’ in Yoruba to honor my roots and celebrate my identity.Using my native language allows me to convey authentic emotions and connect with listeners on a deeper level, especially those who share a similar background. I also believe that music transcends language barriers, and through this song, I hope to introduce the beauty of Yoruba to a broader audience.”

Reflecting on his blend of traditional highlife music with his experiences in the US, Ju’life King emphasized the unique fusion that characterizes his sound.

“Blending highlife with my US experiences means incorporating elements of jazz, R&B, and pop to create a fresh sound. It’s about maintaining the core of highlife while reflecting the cultural diversity of my environment. This approach allows me to create a musical expression that celebrates both my Nigerian heritage and my journey in the US.”

 When asked about the personal influences behind “My Love,” Ju’life King shared that the song draws from a mixture of personal experiences and musical inspirations.

“The song was influenced by personal emotions, the love and unity instilled by my family, and the works of iconic highlife musicians like Dr. Victor Olaiya, Orlando Julius, and E.T. Mensah. Their music laid the foundation for highlife, and I want to continue that legacy while bringing my own contemporary touch.”