The Heart Behind The JIGGY’s Heart
Some artists make music you hear; others make music you feel. Apelete is firmly in the second category. Since his first record in 2019, the Nigerian artist has been carving out his own lane, defined by pure emotion, solid delivery, and authentic street pop sound. His debut single “Kashamadupe” in 2022 sparked his journey — but now, with the release of his latest EP The JIGGY’s Heart, he’s ready to let the world in on his story, his vision and the spirit that drives him.
Q: Tell us about your journey into music.
I’ve always been about the music since childhood. But then I had my first ever recording in 2019. I dropped my first single in 2022 though called “Kashamadupe” which actually began my journey. Then I took a lot of time off to grow as an artist and understand myself as a person. And at this point, I feel ready to show and share my sound.
Q: When did you start taking music seriously, and why?
After my first release, there was a lot of speculation and feedback — both positive and negative. I took all of it in, and the positive feedback made me realize people actually want to hear more from me. The negative feedback made me realize I had to put in more work. It’s been an enjoyable process and experience so far, to be honest.
Q: What inspired your latest project, The JIGGY’s Heart EP?
The creation of this project started off with a motive to express and showcase myself, my perspective of my own life, and how I feel as a person, a human being — differently, in a very masculine way that feels so attractive that I can see and make out beauty in everything and every situation.
Q: Describe your new EP track by track.
The JIGGY’s Heart opens with Young G — a track that reflects on maintaining sanity and pursuing prosperity amidst life’s challenges.
Next is Jiggy Bop, a very energetic, mood-lifting hustler anthem driven by lush 808s and a heavy hip hop bounce.
Then comes Super Starlife, which explores hedonism and pleasure over a vibrant bounce.
The fourth track, BAD featuring DaveTheOracle, is a sing-rap song capturing the female’s captivating sensual energy.
Closing the project is JIGGY BOYZ 4L, a track that affirms my jiggy boy identity, radiating heartfelt devotion over guitar riffs.
Q: Who are your musical influences?
I would say Wizkid, J Hus, and Burna Boy. Legends!
Q: How do you typically generate your ideas for music?
Personally, I often find inspiration from personal experiences, emotions, and observations based on myself. Sometimes I like to just let my imagination do the work, and I try to put words to express it right. And sometimes it’s based on other creatives — not in the sense of emulating, but in the action of being inspired.
Q: How would you describe your sound?
I would like to classify my sound as basically street pop — very raw, original, and energetic.
Q: Who do you hope to collaborate with?
In recent times, I’ve had the thought and idea of being on a song with Bella Shmurda, Runtown, and also Olamide. I resonate so well with how these people sound and their style of creativity. Internationally, I’d say J Hus. That’s a genius right there. Hopefully one day!
Q: What’s the bigger vision for your career?
My vision as a mission is to connect with listeners through my music — to connect in a way they feel the exact intentions of my creation. That’s the only way I could probably say I’ve won!
Apelete’s The JIGGY’s Heart is a collection of five solid tracks, each bearing a distinct approach and seamed together by his cool delivery. If you were at the Greencamp Festival last year, you might remember him performing the opening track, “Young G” — a moment that now feels like the EP’s perfect prologue. It’s the sound of an artist settling into his identity and daring you to step into his world. The project is out now — listen, feel it and share your thoughts in the comments. Click here to listen.
