Loose Canons is a series in which we invite artists we love to share five things that have informed their work. Meet the rest of our Loose Canons here.

Jujulipps is a Tāmaki Makaurau-based artist making waves in the Aotearoa rap scene. With roots stretching across the African continent, Jujulipps was born in Cape Town, South Africa, with ancestral ties to Burundi and the Congo. She finds inspiration everywhere, particularly from the soulful sounds of Africa, the upbeat rhythms of Amapiano, and the powerful energy of hip-hop and afrobeat.

Jujulipps will be showcasing her talent at the upcoming Australian show BIGSOUND this September, followed by a performance at Rhythm & Vines this summer. Check out her newest single, Airplane mode.

MY FRIENDS

I am constantly inspired by my friends and it is SUCH a blessing. From the start of my journey as an artist, my main form of support has been my close friends. Whether they’re offering a hand at one of my shows, helping my mental health or helping me fix a last-minute look together, they have always been there. The love I receive cannot be replicated or properly described in words and I would not be here without them.

BIGPOP FAMILY

My Bigpop family are my mentors, advisors, and second family in many ways. Starting out in this massive yet close-knit industry can be so daunting. One can often get confused and easily overwhelmed when doing so much by yourself — I’m very fortunate to have never felt alone during this time. My manager, Helena Bakker has had the unique experience of being with me from the beginning.

AFRICA

My home AFRICA! I would not be the woman I am today without the grounding and understanding of life that my African values have taught me. I’ve always grown up in such a collective society so to me, it takes a community to raise a child — in the same sense it takes a great team to build a star. I carry myself with a certain light and with a specific confidence because I know where I’m from. I know the greatness I have to offer because of my home.

SELF CARE

Remembering to put yourself first and care for the working agent has been a massive focus for me lately. I often get too into the flow of things that I forget crucial basic needs - like eating on time and sleeping (lol). There have been times I’ve been so invested in a task or goal that I completely forget to take care of myself and the end result is always catastrophic. So often, we’re in this GO GO GO mindset because that’s how society has created the wheel to spin, and it’s so important to ignore that for a moment and do you.

EXERCISE

I’ve always loved sport and working out but the past few years has highlighted the importance of physical activity. Not only does it fit in the self-care aspect but it prepares me for my job on stage. If you want to do a job right you put your all into it - all aspects. That means good music and good fitness to create the show that I envision. Going on a walk before recording or doing a show is so beneficial. Your body is with you the entire time we’re on this earth. It only makes sense to put in the time and pump some oxygen to your body. I also love feeling strong and healthy - it all ties into confidence and exercise is the way to do it!