Five years ago, we tipped Jordan Adetunji as one of our 19 for ’19 acts “destined for the bright lights,” and he’s more than lived up to that promise. Now, with his Grammy nomination for Best Melodic Rap Performance, the Belfast trailblazer’s career has reached new heights, putting him in the ranks of Beyoncé and The Weeknd.
His single ‘Kehlani’ has racked up over 300 million streams, showcasing a sound that blends his trap-influenced beginnings with influences from neo-soul, afrobeat, and rock, as we noted back in 2019: “a hook-laden, ambitious vision whose grasp matches its reach.”
From the moment he began releasing self-produced videos and experimenting with his genre-blurring style, Jordan’s trajectory has been singular, shaped by self-determination and an instinct for reinvention. Reflecting on his journey – which has also seen him signed to 300 Entertainment and Warner Music – Jordan posted on Instagram, “This is for anyone that believes they aren’t good enough or can’t. YOU CAN. No matter where you’re from. Did this from my bedroom in Belfast with a 100 pound interface.”
As he heads to the Grammys in Los Angeles on 2nd February 2025, it’s clear Jordan has more than lived up to his potential – and then some. Long may that continue.
Photo by Joe Laverty
