23 Jan 2025

Rising artiste, Emmanuel Olebile has officially introduced himself to the music world with his debut single, I Ain’t Crazy.

Featuring Lecture Johnson and produced by Drak Bing Wang, the hip-hop single track focuses on social issues and the struggles of everyday life. Olebile, whose stage name is  Ether Jones, said in an interview that the song was more than just music.

“It’s a message to inspire people not to give up. Be positive no matter what may be going on around you, and rise above the temporary madness of life,” he added.

Growing up, Ether Jones who is also an accountant and poet, said he was deeply influenced by the poetic brilliance of Queens bridge artists like Nasir ‘Nas’ Jones, AZ, Foxy Brown, Black Thought, and Pharaoh Monche. He mentioned that it was Tupac’s Changes and Nas’ music that ignited his passion for hip-hop during his high school years.

“Nas changed everything for me. After hearing him, I couldn’t listen to music the same way again,” he said.

He recalled spending his youth in Selebi-Phikwe surrounded by like-minded individuals who shared his love for hip-hop. He said these experiences helped him develop his lyrical skills and wordplay. The Mahalapye native added that his inspiration came from everything around him.

“I am the voice of the voiceless, shedding light on social matters and sharing stories that might otherwise go untold,” he explained.

Despite facing challenges along the way, including the untimely passing of his producer and friend, Unique, Ether Jones remained resolute in his commitment to his craft. He indicated that the loss was tough but his passion for music kept him going.

In December 2024, his birthday month, he released I Ain’t Crazy, which he said was part of an upcoming EP. Ether Jones described his creative process as dynamic and deeply personal. Sometimes a word or an observation sparks inspiration, while at other times, the music flows naturally.

“It just comes as something I can’t explain. Only God understands,” he said.

Reflecting on his journey, Ether Jones said his music is a way to express what others may struggle to articulate. He mentioned that he drew from his life experiences and those of others to craft messages of hope and resilience in his songs.

As Ether Jones looks ahead, he said I Ain’t Crazy is just the beginning of his journey. He added that he was committed to creating music that resonated with his audience and inspired them to keep going, no matter the challenges they face. He said his music is already on social media platforms such as YouTube and Facebook. ENDS