Boko Yout

Born in 1998, Paul Adamah, known professionally as Boko Yout, grew up in Sweden. From a young age, he was immersed in a diverse cultural environment that influenced his artistic development. Initially performing under the stage name Khan-Ji, he began his musical journey in 2016, exploring various genres and artistic expressions.

In 2017, Adamah relocated from Örebro to Stockholm, a move that marked a significant turning point in his career. The vibrant artistic scene of the capital provided him with new opportunities to experiment and refine his unique style. This period of exploration led him to develop 'Afro Grunge', a genre that fuses elements of Afrobeat rhythms with the raw energy of grunge music.

His early works were characterized by unfiltered storytelling and a desire to challenge conventional narratives. By blending music with fashion, design, and performance art, Adamah sought to create a multidimensional artistic experience that resonated with a broad audience.

In May 2023, Boko Yout released his debut EP, 'AS SEEN ON TV', a conceptual project where each track represents a channel in a fictional TV network called Boko Communications. The EP delves into themes of identity, representation, and societal stereotypes, drawing inspiration from the work of sociologist Stuart Hall.

The project was both a celebration and critique of media culture, reflecting Adamah's personal experiences and observations. 'AS SEEN ON TV' received critical acclaim, earning him the Manifest Award for Newcomer of the Year and a nomination for the Swedish Grammy in the same category.

Tracks like 'TIKTOK' and 'MORNING' showcased his ability to blend introspective lyrics with innovative soundscapes, solidifying his reputation as a boundary-pushing artist. The success of the EP marked a significant milestone in his career, opening doors to larger audiences and more prominent performance opportunities.

Following the success of his debut EP, Boko Yout continued to evolve his sound and artistic expression. In early 2024, he collaborated with musician and producer Bård Ericson, known as boerd, to release the EP 'Griot'. This project combined British trip-hop and ambient influences with Adamah's introspective lyrics and powerful vocals, further expanding his musical repertoire.

The 'Griot' EP was praised for its atmospheric production and emotional depth, highlighting the synergy between the two artists. Tracks like 'GO OUTSIDE' and 'NEWS (CAMPFIRE)' exemplified their ability to create immersive sonic experiences that resonated with listeners.

In addition to his recorded works, Boko Yout became known for his dynamic live performances. Incorporating theatrical monologues, jam sessions, and interactive elements, his concerts offered audiences a raw glimpse into his artistic vision. Performances at festivals such as Roskilde in Denmark and Kesärauha in Finland were met with enthusiastic acclaim, further cementing his status as a compelling live act.

In November 2024, Boko Yout released the single 'IGNORED' through Hoopdiggas Recordings. Inspired by his time at the Royal Institute of Art, the track reflects his thoughts on creative freedom, personal growth, and the struggle to retain curiosity in a world that often stifles artistic expression. The line 'In like a lion, out like a swine' encapsulates his inner conflict—a journey of maintaining pride and avoiding cynicism in the face of institutional limitations.

Produced by Joel Kiviaho, 'IGNORED' features a raw, driving rhythm that sets the tone for this new phase of Adamah's artistic journey. The single was well-received, further showcasing his ability to address complex themes through his music.

Looking ahead to 2025, Boko Yout was honored as one of 15 nominees for the prestigious Music Moves Europe Awards (MME Awards), solidifying his reputation as a rising star on the European music scene. With multiple accolades and a highly anticipated new project on the way, 2025 is shaping up to be a defining year in his career.

https://www.instagram.com/bokoyout

https://soundcloud.com/bokoyout

https://boerd.bandcamp.com/album/griot-ep