With over three decades in the entertainment industry, Jakafella has built a legacy that crosses boundaries. Known as a well-established independent recording artist, his talents extend far beyond music, encompassing acting, film production, executive production, narration, and authorship. His body of work includes gritty urban fiction novels, such as Payback Is Karma, and inspiring children’s books, Can I Touch the Sky?, Do Like Jesus, and God and Me. Jakafella is one of our Top 10 Men to Watch in 2025 for his unstoppable drive, hustle, and refusal to accept anything less than success.
Jakafella’s journey from the streets to a multi-faceted entertainment empire is a story of faith, perseverance, and reinvention. In this exclusive interview, he shares insights into his path, the lessons he has learned, and the legacy he hopes to leave for future generations.
CM: What helped you avoid the fate that claims so many young Black men in the streets?
Jakafella: My fate was always in God’s hands, along with those who prayed for me despite the crooked path I’d taken. By 18, I’d traveled to Tennessee and California, witnessing firsthand the success of legitimate opportunities, especially for Black men living well through legal means. That inspired me to leave the illegal hustle behind. I dug deep to find my God-given talents and reinvented myself, discovering gifts I didn’t know I had. I’m still evolving into a better version of myself.
CM: How do you balance telling the raw truth of the streets with messages of growth and redemption?
Jakafella: I speak from the heart about my feelings, mindset, and dreams. When words come from the heart, they touch the hearts of others. My music reflects both the reality I’ve lived and the hope that change is possible.
CM: How do Gloves Off and God Forgive Me show the man you were versus the man you’ve become?
Jakafella: Gloves Off goes back to the hunger that fueled my hustle, wanting more for my family. God forgive me is my repentance, telling those same stories but acknowledging they’re things for which we must seek forgiveness.
CM: What legacy do you want to leave for young men from similar backgrounds?
Jakafella: I want my legacy to be one of determination, hard work, and overachievement. Every song, film, and book will reflect the man I am, proof that no goal is too high if you refuse to be average.
From the block to the boardroom, Jakafella has transformed his hustle into a legitimate empire while inspiring others to rise above their circumstances. His creativity spans chart-worthy music, independent films, and gritty urban fiction, such as Payback Is Karma, which will soon be available as a movie on multiple streaming platforms. His children’s books are also available on Amazon under the author name Jakafella, and his urban fiction books are listed under J. Hudson.
Jakafella’s music can be found on iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify, YouTube, and more under his stage name, Jakafella. Connect with him at www.facebook.com/jakafellahudson.
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