Culture is identity, says Jumanji Ya Hinex on blending Benin roots with global Afro-fusion

By Ayo Onikoyi

Benin City-born artist Osagie Iredia Precious musically known as Jumanji Ya Hinex is carving a unique path in Nigeria’s Afro-fusion scene, blending traditional Edo sounds with reggae, dancehall, hip-hop soul, EDM, and 80s wave — all while keeping his cultural heritage front and centre.

In a recent interview with Potpourri, the emerging artist opened up about how his upbringing in Benin City shaped his musical identity. “Benin has a deep cultural history, strong traditions, and a unique energy that naturally influenced my music,” he said, citing local rhythms, street sounds, and storytelling traditions as foundational to his authentic sound.

His track Kuruse directly pays homage to Benin heritage by featuring a traditional shaker instrument — a deliberate choice. “A lot of young Africans are embracing global sounds but forgetting their roots,” Jumanji explained. “Culture is identity.”

The singer, whose sound combines Afrobeat with reggae, dancehall, hip-hop soul, EDM and 80s wave influences, said his genre-bending approach emerged naturally from years of listening to diverse styles of music.

According to him, while Afrobeat remains the foundation of his music, blending multiple influences allows him to communicate emotions and tell stories from a broader perspective.

Jumanji Ya Hinex said many of his songs are deeply rooted in personal experiences and the realities of everyday life in Nigeria, including struggles, ambition and the challenges associated with pursuing dreams.

“I’ve experienced moments of doubt, growth, survival and hope, and I channel those emotions into my music,” he explained.

The artist also spoke about his single Kuruse, which pays tribute to Benin cultural heritage through the use of a traditional shaker instrument. He described the song as an effort to preserve cultural identity while introducing traditional elements into a modern soundscape.

He said the project was inspired by concerns that younger generations increasingly embrace global influences while overlooking their cultural roots.

On another of his songs, London, the singer said the record explores themes beyond luxury and glamour, touching on emotional complexity, temptation and human vulnerability.

Meanwhile, his track Ehnn Okay mirrors his personal journey as an emerging artist navigating the realities of Nigeria’s music industry.

The artist said the song captures the spirit of perseverance and determination often associated with young creatives trying to establish themselves despite financial and emotional challenges.

Looking ahead, Jumanji Ya Hinex said he hopes to contribute to the growing global influence of Afro-fusion by creating music that remains rooted in African identity while connecting with international audiences.

He added that he also hopes to inspire young creatives, particularly from Edo State and Benin, to pursue their ambitions confidently while embracing originality and cultural pride.

“I want my legacy to be about originality, cultural impact and emotional connection,” he said. “I want people to remember me as an artist who stayed true to his identity while creating music that crossed borders.”

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