From the quiet shores of Anloga to studios across West Africa, Dela Jackson is crafting a music journey defined by soul, substance, and purpose. The early spark? It all began in church. For Dela Jackson—born Jackson Delali Kwaokumey—the seeds of music were planted in the pews of a small congregation in Ghana’s Volta Region. “My church and passion for music inspired me to pursue this path,” he says.
That first spark in 1986 would grow into a lifelong pursuit. But unlike many artists chasing trends, Dela’s path has been one of quiet resilience and unwavering authenticity.
Finding his sound
Dela’s music doesn’t follow the crowd—it carves its own lane. His sound blends afro-rock rhythms with soul, jazz, and a deep connection to African storytelling. Drawing inspiration from legends like Fela Kuti, Hugh Masekela, and Manu Dibango, Dela has cultivated a genre he proudly calls “afro-rock fusion.”
The sound is calm, mid-tempo, and deeply reflective—mirroring his own gentle personality. “I often create music when I’m playing instruments or sitting quietly. That’s where my ideas come from,” he explains.
A journey of reinvention
The road hasn’t been easy. Like many Ghanaian creatives, Dela faced the struggles of inconsistent bookings and limited industry support. But instead of fading out, he adapted. He became a multi-instrumentalist, leaned into music education, and turned his craft into both an art and a livelihood.
“I decided not to wait for opportunities. I created my own space,” he says.
Studio work and collaborations
Dela has released four studio albums as a solo artist, a move that followed years of performing with bands. Among his proudest achievements is working with Grammy-nominated reggae artist Rocky Dawuni. He contributed to four of Rocky’s albums and even shared the stage with him in Côte d’Ivoire.
Though he hasn’t bagged major awards yet, Dela’s discography and stage experience speak volumes. His music champions positivity, community, and a deep love for African culture.
Looking ahead
Dela is currently back in the studio, preparing a new collection of singles expected to drop before the year ends. His goal? To take afro-rock fusion to wider audiences, from film and television to international tours.
“I want my music to inspire—not just in Ghana, but around the world,” he says.
Wisdom for the next generation
When asked what advice he’d give to rising artists, Dela is clear: “Let passion lead you. Understand music. Don’t chase money first.” It’s a message that reflects his journey—steady, purpose-driven, and rooted in something bigger than fame.
Final notes
Outside of music, Dela finds peace in reading and spending time by the ocean. These quiet moments help shape the depth and serenity of his sound.
Dela Jackson may not shout to be heard, but his music is speaking—softly, clearly, and to those who need calm in a chaotic world.
