Jamel Franklin

Jamel Franklin is a Brooklyn-born, Miami-raised rapper based in Dublin. Born to a Guyanese mother and a Jamaican father, Jamel's culturally diverse background is as much a part of his music as it is a part of him. From rapping and rhyming in highschool hallways to headlining gigs and festivals alongside jazz/hiphop band Shy Mascot, Jamel models a musical craft that is reflective of time, place, and culture. His laidback flows and esoteric lyrics are the creative product of his real life experiences, often from the fresh perspective of an outsider. When it comes to his music Jamel also leans into the films, television, and sports that he enjoys, and the result is a deeply personal catalogue of music that gives life to the personality behind it. Since moving to Dublin, Jamel has gained experience in and an appreciation for live music and improvisation. He has performed with improvised jazz/hiphop band Mixtapes From The Underground (Knockanstockan, Galway Jazz Festival) and has supported Ultramagnetic MC's, Hypnotic Brass Band, and Pharoahe Monch. Through his work at Newpark Music Centre he made the connections that led to the making of Shy Mascot, with whom he now writes and performs. Jamel has collaborated with Irish artists like Senu, Danny G & The Major 7th, and Tolu Makay. His next release will be a collaboration with French Producer Midblue. - Aoife Chaney