Emmanuel Jal

About Emmanuel Jal

Emmanuel started his life as a child soldier in the war-torn region of Southern Sudan. He was eventually rescued by a British aid worker, Emma McCune and smuggled to Kenya where he overcame a huge number of struggles to become an acclaimed recording artist and peace activist. He now lives in Toronto, Canada. Emmanuel has released six award nominated studio albums: Naath The Key, Gua, Ceasefire, Warchild and See Me Mama. Naath, released in 2018 is an infectious afrobeats infused album and a stunning collaboration with his highly talented sister Nyaruach. Emmanuel's music draws strongly on his unique experiences and the sounds of his country. His recent music (and its subsequent remixes) interweaves traditional folklore and love songs - alongside infectious dance tunes. Jal's music both reflects the image of war and poverty that has blighted South Sudan whilst also carefully pulling upon the resilience and rich culture of its identity, through vibrant tones and messaging. He has collaborated and performed alongside artists such as Lauryn Hill, Xavier Rudd, Peter Gabriel, Nelly Furtado, Darryl “DMC” McDaniels, Joss Stone, Ed Sheeran, Nile Rodgers and Alicia Keys. Emmanuel Jal is also a prominent speaker, peace activist, wellbeing coach and actor. He has his own autobiography 'Warchild' and starred in the Warner Bros film 'The Good Lie' alongside Reese Witherspoon.