Ify Adenuga, mother of British‑Nigerian grime artist Skepta, has opened up about the conscious decision she made to raise her children in a way that was very different from the strict upbringing she experienced. Her story offers a rare glimpse into how creativity, freedom and emotional support shaped one of the world’s most influential music families.
Ify, a Nigerian‑born author and wife to Joseph Senior Adenuga, moved to London in 1980. Reflecting on her own childhood during the Biafran War — a time marked by discipline and survival — she explained that she didn’t want her home to be tense or governed by fear.
“That’s the promise I made myself, that I’m not going to raise my kids the way I was raised,” she told the BBC World Service, emphasising the importance of allowing her children to explore, express themselves and develop confidence.
A Home Full of Freedom and Creativity
Unlike many traditional African homes where children are often expected to stay out of certain spaces, Ify made her sitting room a place of play and discovery. She encouraged her children to use the space freely, so long as they cleaned up afterwards. This relaxed environment gave them the freedom to explore their ideas — including music — without fear or restriction.
This freedom, she says, helped spark her children’s creative instincts. Ify also supported their early musical interests by driving them to sessions and waiting patiently while they worked. “In his songs, I can see him telling tales about how he grew up,” she said, expressing pride in how their artistic journeys evolved.
A Family of Creatives
Her approach clearly bore fruit. Ify’s children include:
- Joseph “Skepta” Adenuga Jr, acclaimed grime MC, producer and co‑founder of Boy Better Know,
- Jamie “JME” Adenuga, respected grime artist, producer and DJ,
- Julie Adenuga, British broadcaster and radio host, and
- Jason Adenuga, producer and graphic designer.
Early studio sessions and a household that valued exploration over strict rules helped set the stage for their remarkable careers, according to Ify.
