There’s a new moniker making the rounds on the surface of modern pop, and he’s accomplishing it with a drumstick in one hand, a mic in another, and a vision-overcoming strategy that won’t remain within the lines.
Singer, dancer, drummer, and overall sonic trailblazer JACOBI has finally dropped his debut EP, Kid Joy, today, and it’s a stunning, heart-racing celebration of rhythm, soul, and raw imagination. Available everywhere today on all streaming platforms along with an equally inspiring short film for the lead single, “Get It Right,” this seven-track release is not just a debut; it’s a statement.
JACOBI’s Kid Joy blends jazz grooves, neo-soul sensuality, R&B beats, and pop hooks together in an old-school-meets-futuristic sonic cocktail. The EP was created entirely, arranged by, and produced by JACOBI himself. It is unheard of, considering he is merely 24 years old, making him a risky new builder in the ever-evolving world of music today.
Kid Joy Wasn’t Supposed To Happen
Ironically, Kid Joy wasn’t part of the original plan. JACOBI admits that he never even considered putting together a collection until months before its release.
“My initial plan was to drop singles, each being a different genre,” he shares. “That changed once I started toying with the idea of playing shows by summer 2025.”
Suddenly, what began as a shotgun release plan came together in one cohesive, bold idea. A seven-song EP that could fit the entire live show. But necessity became more powerful than creativity. JACOBI was plagued by health problems around his birthday at the end of March. That wake-up call sparked a flame within him.
“I knew I needed a record out before summertime,” he says. “I also knew that I wanted the project to hit numerous genres and pockets of music while remaining digestible.”
Mission complete. From the opening cut to seven, Kid Joy is an electric foray into sound, but it never feels insane. It’s unified, full of life, and brimming with soul.
Full Creative Control and Full Courage
JACOBI didn’t just write the songs. He played them. Produced them. Built them from scratch with bare hands and raw intention. That kind of authorship comes with both freedom and friction.
“I taught myself to drum for most of my life and to produce music during quarantine,” he says. “One of the tracks on the album is the very first song I’ve ever written.”
The payback of that self-education is an ear for outside-the-box arrangements, a heart open to risk, and a spirit dedicated to originality. Without middlemen or compromise, JACOBI created every snare hit and synth stab with vision and vulnerability.
“When you teach yourself to use any tool of creativity, you open yourself up to learning about it in untraditional ways,” he explains. “I believe that is the catalyst for innovation and originality.”
Quincy. Pharrell. JACOBI.
The fingerprints of JACOBI’s musical idols are embedded in Kid Joy not as copies but as compass points. He invokes Quincy Jones and Pharrell not for their hits but for their mindset.
“They don’t get in the way of their own music,” he says with reverence. “They sprinkle just enough of each style to execute the idea. They don’t overthink. They stay colorful.”
Paraphrasing the wise Quincy Jones, JACOBI adopted a philosophy for the entire EP. “Leave space for God to enter the room.”
It is not a philosophy of creativity. It is heard. Kid Joy does not try to convince you. It simply breathes. Sways. Entices you in.
What Does Joy Come After?
JACOBI is not letting up. The Kid Joy universe is only just starting.
“I’ll be releasing a few more music videos and a live concert during the rollout,” he reveals. “There’s also another small body of work coming later this year.”
And to fans waiting for a full-length album, you’ll have to wait a little while longer. But meanwhile, JACOBI is laser-focused on crafting Kid Joy in multimedia and on-stage appearances. But he’s already sketching the grand design.
But he’s already dreaming big.
“Wembley Stadium has always been my dream venue,” he beams. “It’s the epitome of global visibility. I want to be on the biggest and brightest stage.”
Feel-Good Music With a Purpose
Fundamentally, Kid Joy is an emotional rollercoaster, and JACOBI knows exactly what he wants you to feel.
“Excitement,” he assures without hesitation. “I want listeners to feel the energy immediately. That’s why the first track is a firecracker sheer rhythm. I want them to feel a sense of nostalgia, like something in music they’ve missed is coming back.”
With its dense production, raw groove, and unflinching intensity, Kid Joy is not just a debut EP. It’s an entrance to a brilliant new musical era. One that won’t be categorized, boxed, or played it safe.
JACOBI didn’t just drop an album. He launched a movement. And if Kid Joy is the opener, we can’t wait to see what’s next.
Watch the official short film for “Get It Right” below.
The post JACOBI’s Kid Joy Is the Genre-Smashing Debut Pop Needed and the Industry Didn’t See Coming appeared first on Where Is The Buzz | Breaking News, Entertainment, Exclusive Interviews & More.
