Jiri11

As a standard-bearer of the Venlo-based rap group ANBU, Jiri11 earned recognition with hits like “Barkie Op Zak” and “Glo’d Up.” Both tracks were produced by the rapper, as well as the majority of their other music. Music runs in his veins; as a child, he was already playing flamenco guitar virtuously at the conservatory. This comes as no surprise considering his background: a guitarist father and a brother, Jim Taihuttu, who is part of the successful international DJ collective Yellow Claw.

In 2022, Jiri made a solo comeback with his debut solo album Icarus, entirely produced by Jordan Wayne and Jiri himself: a clear new chapter in the career of the musical all-rounder, showcasing a sound more developed and serious than ever before. This album was widely acclaimed by critics and even nominated for Album of the Year by 3voor12.

A Swan Song, Jiri11’s second studio album, was released in early 2024. The single “Ben Met Je,” featuring ADF Samski and Kaya Imani, even charted on Spotify. During his show at Pinkpop 2024, Jiri hinted at new material. For the first time since his hip-hop career, he picked up the guitar and played three pieces of new work.

“After half an hour of beautiful hip-hop-R&B (for which his label boss Ronnie Flex also shows up!), a band stands behind him, he grabs a guitar and first plays a stunning ballad (that angelic cry!!!), followed by two slick Neder-yacht rock songs. The ears perk up because this genre didn’t exist in the Netherlands yet.” — Timo Pisart for 3voor12.