In this issue of HWING’s Breaking Boundaries, we turn the spotlight on East London’s rising artist, JADA, who is rapidly becoming one of the most talked-about names in the modern R&B scene. With a voice that blends soulful depth and futuristic flair, she’s not just following trends—she’s setting them. Her latest single, “KO,” co-produced by the acclaimed Perry and Grammy-winner Venna, is a testament to her genre-defying artistry, combining elements of New Wave R&B, Hip Hop, and Alt-R&B to create a sound that feels daringly fresh yet unmistakably JADA.
“KO” her second single of the year, follows the success of her previous track, “Magic,” which quickly caught the attention of key tastemakers such as Victoria Jane, DJ Ace, COLORS, and Notion. The track pulses with a rich blend of playfulness and introspection, a signature of JADA’s unique ability to navigate the complexities of love and relationships with both depth and light-heartedness. Co-written with her longtime collaborator, JVCK James, “KO” is not just another R&B track—it’s a bold exploration of rhythmic innovation, where unconventional drum patterns meet intricate vocal arrangements, setting JADA apart as a visionary artist.
But JADA’s rise didn’t happen overnight. Her musical journey began in the culturally rich streets of East London, where she was raised in a family steeped in Gospel traditions. Her earliest memories are filled with the sounds of her mother and uncle singing, a passion that quickly rubbed off on her. By the age of five, JADA was already performing ballet and singing in school assemblies, marking the start of a love affair with music that would lead her to songwriting and performing. This passion blossomed further when she attended Elam Music College, where she forged key connections with collaborators like Venna and JVCK James—partnerships that would eventually shape her musical career.
JADA’s inspirations range from legendary soul artists like Jill Scott and Angie Stone to modern R&B icons such as Kehlani and SZA. Yet, while her influences are clear, JADA’s sound is entirely her own, mixing the warmth of old-school soul with the edge of contemporary R&B. It’s this unique blend that has earned her the respect of her peers and a growing fanbase. Her breakout moment came in 2021 with “June’s Cry,” a collaboration with JVCK James, Venna, and Emil on Venna’s Venology EP. The collaboration was a critical success, and her creative relationship with Venna has only flourished since, resulting in the standout track “Tam Tam” on Venna’s Equinox EP in 2023.
JADA’s evolution as an artist reached new heights in 2023, as she embarked on Venna’s Est.99 European tour, gracing the stages of major cities such as Amsterdam, Paris, and London’s iconic Islington Assembly Hall. Her magnetic performances captured the hearts of audiences across Europe, cementing her reputation as an artist to watch. Adding to her impressive year, JADA made her U.S. debut at SXSW in Austin, Texas, as part of DJ Ace’s EverythingRNB showcase. Sharing the stage with fellow UK rising stars like Tamera, Ayanna, and Etta Bond, JADA proved that her talent transcends borders, representing the future of British R&B on a global stage.
What truly sets JADA apart, though, is her perfectionist approach to music. Every note, every lyric, and every beat is carefully crafted with her hands-on involvement, ensuring that her artistic vision is fully realized. For JADA, making music is more than just a creative outlet—it’s a deeply personal, cathartic experience. Her close collaborations with friends like JVCK James and Venna allow her to express emotions and embrace vulnerability in ways that resonate with listeners. Despite her naturally introverted nature, JADA’s music offers her a way to connect with people, sharing her journey and struggles through her art.
With her latest release, “KO,” JADA sends a clear message: she’s not just here to participate in the industry—she’s here to leave an indelible mark. Her music isn’t bound by genre or convention, and her relentless pursuit of authenticity ensures that her voice will continue to stand out in a crowded landscape. As she carves her path in R&B, JADA is a name you’ll want to remember, a rising star whose passion, talent, and dedication are setting the stage for a career destined for greatness.
JADA’s journey is only just beginning, and with each new release, she’s pushing the boundaries of what R&B can be. As she continues to evolve, there’s no doubt that her voice will be heard far and wide, leaving a lasting impact on the industry and solidifying her place as one of the most exciting artists to emerge from East London’s vibrant music scene.
Stay tuned for more from JADA and be sure to follow her on Spotify and Instagram for the latest updates.
