J’Dess – The Empress Of Tuneful Melody

J’Dess‘ 8-track EP titled “Ada” is one of the most enjoyable body-of-works right now. When you hear the song ‘Chi Efo’, it is soothing, soulful, symphonious, and reassuring, while the up-tempo track like ‘Away’ will make one dance and sing along all day. She has churned out beautiful music for every mood. There’s an unfathomable joy that comes with listening to her dulcet voice and incredible vocals. It’s fair to say that J’dess is the empress of tuneful melody.

Christened Joy Chioma Obilo, a native of Enugu state, her musical career started in an all-female A-cappella group called ‘The Destined’ in her church. According to her, “The first song I recorded was ‘Light’ featuring Phyno. It was a gospel song recorded in 2007. Starting as a gospel artist, I also recorded a song with Boqui. In a quest to discover my sound and showcase my talent, I participated in several talent hunt shows. It was a self-discovery journey.

I participated in the Zain True Search; I emerged second in the east. I did the Peak Talent show; I was top twelve, and then, Naija Sings; I was top ten in Enugu. I tried Project Fame, X-Factor, and Nigerian Idol. Till 2013, I tried Destiny Child Gospel talent show and won the show, Season 2. In 2017, I participated in The Voice Nigeria. Then I emerged as one of the 8 top finalists. It was the moment that I knew I was going all-in for my music career.

At a time in my career, I was a member of a record label called ‘Low Time Record’ manned by Wizboy. That group had rapper Zoro and also Slim Brown. Honestly, we all never signed a contract. Nevertheless, we worked together. While I was with that team, I recorded songs like ‘Panpan’. It was an incredible learning curve. Everything I knew while with the record label and during the various talent shows was transformative. I am grateful to everyone along that journey.

So, ‘Chi Efo’ came when I was at my lowest. I was inspired to write the song when I lost my dad. That was after The Voice Nigeria. I wrote and recorded it during the heat of the pandemic, 2020. I had some setbacks during the recording but thank goodness Cavemen came to my rescue for production. That song received a Headies nomination for Best Female Vocal Performance. That encouragement propelled me further to record my EP called ‘Ada’. I am excited and happy with the feedback I have gotten so far.”