大象传媒

In this episode of Heart and Soul, Rajeev Gupta meets the world鈥檚 number one Hare Krishna rapper Jake Emlyn.
Jake鈥檚 musical talents were once trumpeted by international pop star Robbie Williams, who mentored the young English rapper. It led him to feature on the albums of major stars and tour worldwide. However, ten years ago on the verge of signing a major record deal, Jake鈥檚 life dramatically changed. Jake lost his father to cancer which prompted a journey of reflection and self-discovery. A chance meeting with a Hare Krishna devotee led to a visit to a temple in central London and from there on in Jake was hooked to the spiritual life. Jake didn鈥檛 sign the big music deal and instead for the past decade has devoted his life to the Hare Krishna way of life, chanting mantras, serving in the temple and taking part in the iconic practice of singing the name of the Lord Krishna whilst dancing and parading through public streets. Jake has also combined his rapping skills with his religious life and is now billed as the world鈥檚 number one Hare Krishna rapper. Although his stage is no longer global arenas and local hare Krishna gatherings, he has released religious rap albums and become well known figure for millions of Hare Krishna followers around the world.

However, when Rajeev meets Jake he quickly discovers things aren鈥檛 all what they seem. Rajeev finds Jake is at a crossroad and is questioning how closely he wants to remain within the Hare Krishna fold. Jake thoughts turn towards his old self and the type of rapper he once was. He wants to do new music incorporating all his life experiences but he knows this would mean cutting ties with some in the Hare Krishna movement. Is this a new turning point in Jake鈥檚 life and can he continue to call himself the worlds number Hare Krishna rapper?

Producer and Presenter: Rajeev Gupta
Production Coordinator: Mica Nepomuceno