Jelani the Babe

Photo Credit: @arualfromars

Jelani the Babe is defying the music industry norm; through her unique musical style, the singer, songwriter, and visual artist based in LA has gotten her career off to a smashing start. She uses her worldwide childhood — growing up in both Nicaragua and California - to produce seamlessly crafted dance music backed by sultry vocals. Getting involved in the LA underground hip-hop scene as a teen, the artist has been able to incorporate elements of it into her work as well. Between her debut single “Radiant” and her sophomore single “LSD,” both of which were dropped this year, Jelani’s earned her place on two Spotify-curated playlists, including one of the largest: “Fresh Finds”. We recently spoke with the up and comer about her creative process, secret talents, and more!

How did you start making music?

I've been singing all my life. I first started making music when I dropped out of college; I was more motivated to go to the studio till 3 am than going to class. At some point, I stopped showing up to be honest. I ended up leaving the university to go to a digital arts school, where I learned the technical side of music. 

What's something you love to do in your free time? 

I love songwriting, painting, getting out in nature, taking psychedelics, DANCING.

What do you think is the hardest part about creating a song? 

Honestly, creativity flows naturally, so creating a song isn't difficult. I'd say working with the right producers was the hardest at first. I LOVE house music, dance music. My voice fits perfectly. However, when I first started, everyone would send me 90s R&B type sounds, which is cool but not ME. So I made my own experimental EP. I made a few beats on that project and collaborated with open minded producers, and that opened the door to the sound I have now.

What was the inspiration behind "LSD"?

Last summer, I took LSD. It still affects your brain even after you've come down. I ended up in an entanglement with an adventurous person and wrote a song about it. 

What's a secret talent that you have? 

MY SECRET TALENT IS I have psychic abilities. 

What's a venue that you'd love to play in the future?

SxSW, Afropunk, Coachella, Grammys. The big stages dawg. 

If you could pick one person to collab with, who would it be? 

Young Thug, Future, or Travis Scott. We could make some legendary shit that's never been done before.

What are you planning for the future?

I'm currently working on an album with my producer. It will have some house, pop, hip hop elements but it will be 1000% BABE.