Few things can be said about Jamaal Monarch; vocalist, songwriter, producer, engineer, activist, designer, photographer, fashion aficionado. From roots in Pakistan to an upbringing in Manchester, Jamaal is a burgeoning independent sensation with a vibrant, eclectic sound, and an approach to lyricism that is charismatic yet self-aware, introspective yet boisterous. Jamaal’s free-spirited musical nature stems from self-empowerment within intersectionality; be it race, religion, sexuality, Jamaal leaves no topic untouched and nothing compromised.
Jamaal started making music at age 10, producing on Reason before progressing to Logic. Jamaal prides himself on strong lyricism, abstract concepts and narratives not commonly seen in modern hip-hop. Live radio appearances on Unity Radio and Reform Radio have showcased that Jamaal’s rap skills are a force to be reckoned with, while support from UNILAD Sound has provided credibility to Jamaal’s message and talent. By contrast, Jamaal possesses an ear for smooth melodies and intricate harmonies, creating for a diverse vocal performance that stretches the boundaries of his sound.
Music has been Jamaal's life-long obsession and his early inspirations were iconic men of colour, throughout varying generations, but all of whom stood for individuality and freedom of expression. These names include; Prince, Pharrell Williams, Frank Ocean, Kid Cudi, Stevie Wonder, Kendrick Lamar and Marvin Gaye, while newer inspirations include Tame Impala, Whitney Houston and The Weeknd.
Jamaal has been establishing himself through an active performance schedule and work with a variety of organisations and platforms. This two-year run was alighted by a slot at Birmingham Pride 2018, followed by support slot to legendary NY rapper Le1f and a slot at Manchester Pride. To finish 2019, Jamaal played a debut London show, successful slots with Partisan Collective, iLuvLive and Wilderness Record Store.
Jamaal was building momentum in early 2020, playing five performances in quick succession across London, Manchester, and Leeds, but a powerful performance to close the Manchester Pride Vigil and three single releases, including "Prince Charles" and its accompanying ice-cream van video, have sustained the steam as the long-awaited ‘Audio Honey’ album will be released on December 16, 2020. The album was produced, engineered and mixed by Jamaal, and has been mastered by Eve Studios’ Joel Patchett, who has worked with King Krule, Billy Ocean and Denzel Curry.