For the latest entry in the Aa Friendbook, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Junya—a true multi-hyphenate with roots in Ghana. Born Junior Emmanuel Koney, Junya is a model, creative, and artist, but above all, he’s a devoted drummer whose talent has taken him around the globe. Having performed with renowned artists like Rimon, Fullcrate, Akwasi, and Yung Nnelg, he’s graced stages from Lowlands to South Korea, and even his home country, Ghana.
Junya’s musical journey began at the age of two in his childhood kitchen, drumming on pots and pans with his beloved mother. A musician herself, she taught him the drums and guitar, filling their home with gospel music. Though she passed away in 2011, her legacy lives on in Junya’s work, fueling his passion and creativity.
Since 2018, Junya has been exploring new sonic paths and collaborating on major productions like Rimon’s Digital TearsEP, all while modeling for brands like Daily Paper and TheNewOriginals. When he’s not performing or recording, he’s giving back to his community, hosting masterclasses for local youth and supporting his church where his father is a priest.We caught up with Junya ahead of his performance at the Super-Sonic Jazz Festival, happening from November 13-17. To experience Junior’s magic live, be sure to grab a ticket for his Higherlife x Gallowstreet performance on Saturday, the 16th.
Scroll for Junior’s Frienbook entry.
My name is: Junior Emmanuel Koney
I’m also known as: Junya
I was born on: 2nd of July, 1995
My favorite color is: I don’t have a favorite
My favorite animal is: an eagle
My favorite food is: Jollof Rice
My favorite movie is: Coming to America
My favorite song is: Khruangbin – White Gloves
I don’t like: negativity
I am good at: playing drums
When in Amsterdam, you will find me at: church in the Bijlmer
A quality of mine I want to strengthen: my leadership skills
The best advice I’ve ever received: Put God first in anything you do. Trust in him and depend on him only ✝
A recent compliment that made me happy: That I really smell good! 🙂
A moment that changed me: My first real encounter with God on the 13th of November, 2021. The love of God was heavily present, changed my life
An experience that has taught me a lot: Raising my daughter, Yuna 💙
— She is 7 years old. She has taught me a lot. How to love, listen, patience, kindness, self-control…
Who are you? I’m a young man who loves God. I love being around family/friends. I’m a creative, someone who is driven to make it happen.
What inspires you? Music, food, fashion, people, architecture, my soon-to-be wife, and my daughter.
What are you passionate about? My career, my faith, being a good person.
What attracted you to your craft? My mother’s talent and musicality.
How do you find balance? By building a relationship with Jesus Christ, by praying & reading the Bible, and serving others.
How do you practice self-care? Eating healthy, going to the gym, by listening to music that nourishes my soul, buying nice clothes.
My message to all of you: God is love. Be kind and loving. Take care of yourself, eat healthy, listen to positive music. Focus on being the best version of yourself.
