AKAI, the Nigerian-American artist, whose real name is Malakai Jones is one of the rising stars in the Afrobeats scene. Born in the United States to parents whose family comes from Anambra State, Nigeria and Frankfurt, Germany, AKAI has a unique and diverse background that is reflected in his music.
Since he was a child, AKAI loved Afrobeats and Amapiano, and as he grew older, he decided to represent those who dealt with diaspora by venturing into music. In an interview, AKAI said, “I hope people when people listen to my music, they will have sort of a sense of understanding. Being proud even if you aren’t from Nigeria or have heritage that began in Africa. Just being proud of who you are, whatever your DNA consists of. Just be proud.”
“Creation I,” AKAI’s upcoming EP, features five songs telling his own story, and he has already released the first single, “Naija Boy,” on all platforms. AKAI’s music is genuine, and he aims to close the gap between himself and generational diaspora. His lyrics showcase his love for his people and his desire to spread positivity and pride in one’s heritage.
AKAI’s journey in music began when he started learning music theory five years ago. Initially, he wanted to be a music producer, but in 2023, he made a bold decision to hop on the mic. One of his biggest fears was to rap, but he conquered it. He recalls hopping into the studio with his close friend, RJ, and the rest is history.
AKAI’s breakthrough came with his debut single, “NAIJA Boy,” released in June 2023. The song’s catchy hook paired with a fusion of Nigerian and American cultural elements resulted in a unique and compelling sound. AKAI’s authenticity is evident within the first few seconds of the song. One can feel the emotion in his music, proving his passion and dedication to his craft.
The young artist’s music has a purpose beyond entertainment. AKAI wants to use his platform to bridge the gap between himself and his heritage. Being a product of two distinct cultures, he aims to merge them in his music, creating a space where people can connect with each other. He yearns to bring light to the diaspora and have everyone embrace their backgrounds.
AKAI’s talent and unique style have turned heads in the music industry. With just one single, he has managed to make a name for himself and pique the interest of Afrobeats lovers globally. “NAIJA Boy” is a testament to AKAI’s talent, and we can only hope that his upcoming EP, “Creation I,” will give us more of his sound.
AKAI’s social media presence has been growing since his debut single release. His Instagram profile is full of pictures and stories showcasing his daily life and his music journey. Fans can keep up-to-date on what he is up to, including recordings, performances, and other activities.
AKAI’s music is available on many platforms, including Apple Music and Spotify, making it accessible to a broad audience. His music is a medley of different sounds, ranging from Afrobeats to Hip Hop, providing his listeners with a versatile experience. “Naija Boy” is available for listening on Spotify, where fans can get a sneak peek into his unique sound.
In conclusion, AKAI, aka Mr. Naija Boy, is making waves in the Afrobeats scene. His unique cultural background is reflected in his music, making him stand out from other artists. With his upcoming EP, “Creation I,” AKAI is sure to have more hits on the way, and his music will continue to inspire people to bridge the gap between diaspora and heritage.
Make sure to join this rising star’s journey by following him on Instagram. You can find him at Instagram. You can also listen to his music on Apple Music or on Spotify. Don’t miss out on the captivating debut track, “Naija Boy,” which sets the rhythm for AKAI’s exciting music career.
