Emmanuel Jal is a South Sudanese-Canadian artist, musician, and former child soldier, whose life story encapsulates a journey of incredible adversity, turned into hope and advocacy through music and activism. Born in the early 1980s in the village of Tonj in what is now South Sudan, Jal was swept into the brutal conflict as a child and trained as a soldier. Miraculously surviving the harrowing experiences of war, Jal was eventually rescued by a British aid worker named Emma McCune and smuggled into Kenya, where he began to use music as a healing tool for himself and others.

As a recording artist, Emmanuel Jal has carved out a distinguished career, interlacing his personal narrative with wider social commentary and calls for peace and reconciliation. His music is an eclectic blend of hip-hop, afrobeat, and traditional Sudanese music, addressing issues of social justice, equality, and human rights. Among his latest works are thought-provoking tracks like "Gorah" and "Budáh," as well as remixes that resonate with a global audience, such as "Hey Mama (Apexape Remix)" and "Kuar." His politically charged "Mr President" showcases his knack for storytelling through music, while his collaborations, such as "Lele (Mandalorian Edit)" and the LevyM Remix of "Hey Mama," have expanded his sonic landscape, placing him as not only a musician but also a prominent voice for social change through artistic expression.

Genres

South Sudanese Pop

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Latest Release

Choose Love

Emmanuel Jal•

STORRY

Single - Released August 2, 2024