Djembe Music Blog

Zambian artist, Jack Lumbeta Kafukwilwa, known by his stage name Jay Trigga, has been making waves in the music industry since 2015 when he first entered the industry as a producer, gradually exploring his musical style and gaining knowledge and experience in the industry.

With a unique blend of Afrobeat and a passion for staying true to his roots, Jay Trigga brings a breath of fresh air to Zambia’s music landscape.
In this exclusive interview, we dive into Jay Trigga’s journey, influences, creative process, and his advice for aspiring artists.

Jay Trigga’s love for music began at a young age, growing up in a family where his parents played a significant role. His mother, a teacher, would host parties where he found himself in charge of playing the music. Meanwhile, his father, an engineer, exposed him to various genres through their car rides.

Jay Trigga’s upbringing fuelled his passion for music, and he found inspiration in artists like Kanye West, Nasty C, and Wizkid, who resonated closely with his African roots.
Jay Trigga pursued his education in China, obtaining a degree in Petroleum Engineering from Liaoning Shihua University and a master’s degree in Business Management from Shenyang Aerospace University. Throughout his academic journey, his passion for music continued to thrive. It was during this time that he crossed paths with a business partner, Fegor Moses who owned a chain of businesses, and together they embarked on managing the music side, forming Cloud 9 Music Africa.

This opportunity allowed Jay Trigga to further develop his artistry and contribute a unique flavor to Zambia’s music scene. Infusing Afrobeats into his sound, Jay Trigga brings a fresh approach to Zambian music. Traditionally, Zambian music has been dominated by the native tongue known as “Dunka,” a blend of afro dancehall. However, Jay Trigga’svision extends beyond boundaries as he aims to connect with the younger generation through his music.

Staying true to oneself and embracing authenticity are principles that Jay Trigga strongly believes in. He acknowledges that the music industry has evolved, with consumers now holding significant power. By remaining genuine and true to his roots, Jay Trigga has built a dedicated audience that appreciates his artistry and unique style.

Jay Trigga’s creative process is characterized by spontaneity and freedom. With the ability to record, produce, mix, and master his own songs, he enjoys the flexibility of creating music at any given moment. While he has collaborated with other music producers, Jay Trigga’s independence allows him to explore his creativity without limitations. Some of the producers he has worked with include J Hun, Keldrin, Chase Iyan, Paul KruzBizzouch, Sounddon, Nahz Rashid, Joel Beats, and Joeyoutrippin.

Jay Trigga recognizes the influence of exposure on his sound and artistic development. Having interacted with artists from Nigeria, Tanzania, and other African countries, he emphasizesthe importance of embracing diverse influences and continuously evolving as an artist. His advice to aspiring artists is simple: stay true to yourself and keep creating, as authenticity and passion will always resonate with an audience.

Additionally, Jay Trigga is currently working on an exciting EP and several singles, eagerly preparing to share his musical evolution with his growing fanbase. With plans to embark on his first trip to Nigeria, he looks forward to connecting and engaging with his Nigerian supporters, expressing his gratitude for the overwhelming support he has already received from the country. Notably, Jay Trigga acknowledges Ice Prince as the first Nigerian artist to collaborate with him, a milestone that holds special significance to him.

Looking ahead, Jay Trigga has ambitious plans, including a media tour and collaborations with esteemed artists such as Wizkid, Ruger, Burna Boy, Rema, and Zinoleesky. Dreaming of a collaboration with Wizkid, Jay Trigga aims to manifest his aspirations and elevate his music to even greater heights. His achievements thus far have been remarkable, having worked with Ice Prince, receiving recognition from his embassy in China for his creative contributions, and being featured as one of the Top 10 African Artists You Should Know Right Now by Audiomack .

With a genuine passion for his craft and a desire to connect intimately with his fans, Jay Trigga envisions curating more intimate and free shows to showcase his artistry. He aims to establish a stronger connection with his supporters, fostering an interactive environment that resonates with his music.

Above all, Jay Trigga’s ultimate goal is to inspire others and leave a lasting legacy. He wants people to believe in the power of possibilities, emphasizing that with unwavering belief, anything is achievable. Through his music, Jay Trigga aims to put Zambia on the global map, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.

As he continues to embark on this exciting journey, Jay Trigga encourages his fans to stay tuned and join him as he explores new horizons, eager to see where this remarkable adventure takes him.