Ghanaian rising star AratheJay is having a landmark year, which just got even bigger. The new-age Afropop and soul sensation has joined forces with celebrated rapper Manifest for Spotify Africa’s latest cultural campaign, “Jollof & Jama.” This initiative celebrates the vibrant Ghanaian street food culture and the country’s rich musical heritage.
Announced via Spotify’s official platforms, the campaign is a flavorful blend of music, food, and identity, designed to spotlight the stories and experiences that define Ghana. It brings together two generations of Ghanaian artistry in a captivating cross-cultural moment.
A Fusion of Food and Sound: “Jollof & Jama”
The campaign’s theme is rooted in Ghanaian everyday life. “Jollof,” a beloved West African rice dish, and “Jama,” the spirited local drum-and-chant style often heard during community gatherings, together represent the flavors and rhythms of Ghana. Through this campaign, Spotify aims to showcase how culinary tradition and music are inseparable parts of Ghana’s national identity.
In a teaser shared by Spotify Africa, the brand wrote:
“Serving jollof and jama with @manifestive and @arathejay. Let’s feast on the flavors of Ghanaian street food and appreciate the sounds that bring us all together.”
This bold cultural celebration is designed to give global audiences a taste of Ghana, both literally and sonically.
AratheJay and Manifest: A Collaboration That Resonates
The campaign builds on the buzz of AratheJay’s recent collaboration with Manifest on the track “Wine and Blues,” a standout single from the rapper’s new album, “New Road and Guava Trees.” The track merges classic rap elements with AratheJay’s soulful vocals, highlighting the creative synergy between both artists.
Reflecting on the experience, AratheJay expressed pride in being part of a campaign that mirrors his roots:
“It’s always special to be part of something that reflects who we are—our food, our sounds, our spirit. Big love to the good people at Spotify for putting this together and to the incredible icon Manifest for having me on this.”
A Milestone Year for AratheJay
- Best New Artist
- Best Afropop Song
The TGMAs, scheduled for May 10, are set to shine a spotlight on Ghana’s biggest and brightest talents — and AratheJay is firmly in that conversation.
Bringing Ghana to the World Stage
This collaboration with Manifest and Spotify places AratheJay on an even larger platform — one that extends Ghana’s influence into global pop culture. Spotify’s “Jollof & Jama” campaign not only champions local cuisine and music but also reflects the growing global appetite for African stories told by Africans.
As international listeners crave more authentic content, artists like AratheJay are at the forefront, representing a new wave of Ghanaian musicians who are blending the traditional with the contemporary.
What’s Next for AratheJay?
While the TGMA nominations and this Spotify campaign have marked major wins for AratheJay, fans are eagerly anticipating what’s next. Whether it’s more genre-defying collaborations or surprise solo projects, it’s clear this rising star is just getting started.
With creative vision, cultural authenticity, and a growing fan base, AratheJay is not only making music—he’s making moments.