Breaking Boundaries: The Evolution of Money Badoo, a Dynamic Artist

Money Badoo, born Jade Alves in Ennerdale, South Africa, has rapidly ascended the music and fashion worlds as a versatile rapper, singer, songwriter, stylist, and creative director. Raised in the vibrant streets of Johannesburg, Money Badoo’s eclectic upbringing is reflected in her ever-evolving sound and bold fashion choices. Her musical journey began at just 12 years old, singing in church choirs, but her unique voice and approach truly emerged when she transitioned into rapping and songwriting.

Her 2019 debut single, All My Friends, introduced a fresh, genre-blending sound that immediately caught the attention of industry leaders, including Apple Music’s Ebro, who featured the track on The Ebro Show. This pivotal moment was followed by a series of powerful collaborations, notably her joint EP MK-Ultra with Sauwcy, which showcased a darker, experimental trap sound. Soon after, her debut solo project, PORN$TAR, solidified her position as one of South Africa’s most exciting new talents, earning her recognition as Apple Music’s UP NEXT artist.

Yet, Money Badoo is not just about music. She has made significant strides as a stylist and visual artist, blending her abstract creativity with more accessible, relatable themes. Her eye for fashion and design has led to partnerships with brands like Mugler, H&M, and Puma, and she gained further acclaim after winning Canon’s Picture Perfect competition, where she was celebrated for her artistic vision behind the camera.

This year, Money Badoo continues to push boundaries with her latest album, MSRYLUV$CMPNY, a testament to her growth as an artist and her refusal to be boxed into a single genre.

A New Chapter with “Don’t Call Me” – Money Badoo’s First Afropop Venture

On September 13th, 2024, Money Badoo took another bold step in her musical evolution with the release of her first Afropop single, Don’t Call Me. Featuring The Woodz and production by gTbeats , the track marks a significant moment in her career, diverging from her earlier trap-infused sound to explore the vibrant, infectious beats of Afropop. Released through Paradise Sound System, Don’t Call Me captures the essence of modern-day relationships, particularly the complexities of “internet love” and the emotional turbulence of a breakup.

In her own words, Money Badoo describes the song as “a message about internet love in the age of technology, situationship dynamics, and ultimately, a breakup song.” She adds, “I wrote this song from a very real place and hope it resonates with people, encouraging them to leave situations or situationships that no longer serve them.“

The Woodz’s feature adds a unique layer to the track, complementing Money Badoo’s powerful vocals, while gTbeats’ production creates a soundscape that perfectly balances emotional depth with an undeniable groove. This fresh Afropop sound showcases Money Badoo’s ability to continually reinvent herself, offering her fans something new while staying true to her authentic artistry.

View this post on Instagram
A post shared by ZAAK (@moneybadooworld)

As Money Badoo prepares to release MSRYLUV$CMPNY, her forthcoming album, she continues to challenge conventions, break boundaries, and inspire a new generation of creatives. Whether through her music, her fashion, or her artistic vision, Money Badoo remains a force to be reckoned with, constantly evolving and pushing the limits of what it means to be an artist in today’s world.

Stream “Money Badoo & gTbeats – Don’t Call Me (ft. The Woodz)” HERE