#IMMusicMondays: 10 Questions With… JERUB
JERUB is an artist who is set to reach new levels in 2023. This Nottingham singer-songwriter has recently signed with Elevate Music, and got his name out there after being featured on Love Island and Your Christmas or Mine?
This year saw him return to the music scene, having not dropped since 2021 with his latest track ‘Cold‘ released on Friday. JERUB in this interview, brought insight into his new music and some of the people he thinks will take his music in a new direction.
1) The track ‘Cold‘ juxtaposes the song’s message of heartbreak with an anthemic, happier production. What made you decide to go in this direction?
I’ve always loved writing songs with anthemic choruses. I want every listener to be able to place themselves within the story. With ‘Cold,’ I think everyone has experienced rejection and loss across different levels of friendship and relationship and I wanted the anthemic chorus to bring people into the fact that we have all experienced this and are experiencing it together. I also wanted the production to feel free and liberating because admitting to ourselves that we’re not okay is sometimes the most freeing thing.
2) Having not released new music since 2021, what have you learnt in that time that you will show on your new EP?
A lot has happened since my last project and a lot of it in a short space of time. I think I’m still just figuring life out and I’ve learned that it’s okay to just be ‘figuring things out.’ We are all figuring it out in some way or the other. The songs on the EP really just show some of my reflections over the past year.
3) If you could go back in time to one concert, who would you go to see and where?
I would love to see Fela Kuti at Glastonbury 1984. Being from Nigeria myself, seeing the most iconic artist to come from Nigeria play at one of the most iconic festivals would be incredible.
4) Did having your music featured on Love Island open you up to a new audience and have you noticed any changes in terms of fan interactions?
Having some of my songs played on Love Island was a pleasant surprise, I remember being so shocked when I found out. It’s been great to reach more people through my music via the show.
5) You’re set to support RHODES on tour. What can people expect you to bring to the table?
I’m really excited because it’s my first ever tour. People can expect me, my voice, my guitar, and some songs that make you feel.
6) Which artist has impacted the way you make music the most in your musical upbringing?
It’s so hard to name just one artist. At many stages of my life, different artists have been influential and inspiring. I grew up listening to a lot of gospel, pop, R’n’B, and rap.
7) Who is an artist you would like to collaborate with, who would take your music in a new direction?
I would love to collaborate with some of my favourite UK rappers like Dave and Stormzy. I’m also a huge fan of Jon Bellion. A duet with Adele would also be a dream.
8) What would you say is the best tool to help an artist get their name out there?
Live music and playing shows are such a great way to build a following and also get comfortable in your own sound and skin. It’s such a big part of the artist’s journey.
9) What would your advice be to up-and-coming artists?
I feel so unqualified to answer this but I would say that authenticity is your greatest weapon. People connect with the real.
10) What are your goals for 2023?
In 2023, I would love to just have a successful release campaign and play some amazing live shows!
JERUB is on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok.