It’s a casual day in the life of Jacob Evangelista, the young maestro, also known as The Therapist.

Encircled by a handful of highly creative people in a room, he’s bouncing on rhythms and writing lyrics to his next plausible hit.

It’s easier for him to create his best work this way, he says. “I like enjoying the process.” And it’s worked before for him. His debut record, “Nack,” went viral on social media and garnered over five million streams becoming one of the notable breakout hits of 2022. He also followed it up that same year with a Mayorkun remix.

Now, with a fresh comeback song, “4×4”, featuring South African disc jockey Tyler ICU and Nigerian producer Magicsticks, The Therapist makes an attempt at becoming one of the few breakout talents with such a trifecta. The Amapiano-African pop fusion showcases The Therapist’s versatility, especially with African dance music, which submarines his cheery catalogue so far.

Born and bred in Freetown, Sierra Leone, The Therapist is a known voice across West African music hotspots. He began his sojourn in entertainment, making numerous viral TikTok skits. Leaning towards global stardom, the young singer is on the cusp of his breakout. A student of architecture, he speaks to Guardian Music on the building blocks behind his art; his journey so far, and his vision for his career.

How do you feel about the song?
I feel great. My new project is something fresh. Mixing Amapiano and Afrobeats is nothing new to me. I’m just happy that the record is out and I have great people on it. I know the record is going to go far; it’s very groovy and I like that.

Tell us about your creative process.
I was in the studio chilling with the guys; we were just having fun. I like to work when I see the music and I am enjoying the process. My typical creative process is based on vibes. I just like to be myself and do me.

Who were your earliest music influences?
Funnily, when I was younger I listened to a lot of Nigerian music. My first song ever recorded was “Nack” and it went viral. I always wanted to do music ever since I was younger. P-square, Don Jazzy, Wande Coal, and even Fela Kuti were my earliest music influences. I used to hang around older people a lot and they played most of those things. I used to listen to Tupac, Biggie, and all those people. I love Afrobeats and that really influenced me.

Who do you look forward to collaborating with?
I’m looking forward to collaborating with a lot of people, from Asake, to Burna Boy, Davido, P-Square and all the big names in the scene.

What’s next for you?
I have a lot of great things, more hits coming out. More music and also touring. I’m heading for the Grammys, hopefully.

What’s the vision for your career?
We are going up from here. I want to have a lot of hits and put my country on the map. I really do want my music to be known and see people sing my songs back to me. I want to top charts and bag awards too.