Joy Oladokun Admits ‘I Needed to Sort Some Stuff Out Mentally’ by Sharing Revealing New Album “Hope Is a Heavy Thing” (Exclusive)

**Joy Oladokun Aims to Transform Folk Music with New Album**

Joy Oladokun, a rising star in the folk and Americana music scene, is on a mission to redefine the genre, inviting audiences to explore new understandings of identity and healing through her latest project, *Hope Is a Heavy Thing*. The album, which follows her previous release, *Observations From a Crowded Room*, showcases her journey of self-discovery amidst personal and societal challenges.

Born in Delaware and raised in Arizona, Oladokun is now based in Nashville, where she channels her unique experiences as a queer Black artist into her work. The 34-year-old musician explains that *Hope Is a Heavy Thing* is more than just a collection of songs; it’s a cathartic exploration of her inner thoughts and emotions. “I made a record because I felt like I had lost touch with who I am and how I want to operate in this world,” she expressed.

In a candid reflection on the creative process, Oladokun notes that she sought to peel away layers of preconceived notions about herself and the world around her, arriving at a place of authenticity. The resulting album captures the often conflicting emotions of beauty and sadness, offering listeners a sanctuary of vulnerability. “It felt like I was going through it for catharsis,” she said, remarking on the transformative nature of this artistic endeavour.

Oladokun approached the recording of the album with unrestrained honesty, stating that she was primarily motivated by personal need rather than commercial ambition. “I don’t care if it sells, I just needed to make it,” she affirmed. This spirit of authenticity permeates her music, allowing her to engage deeply with the subjects of hope and healing without external pressures dictating the final product.

Throughout her career, Oladokun has collaborated with a host of talented artists, including Chris Stapleton and Noah Kahan. However, for this album, she chose to focus inward, creating a space where she could reconnect with her core identity. With no producers pushing for commercial success or censoring her emotional depth, she found freedom in her songwriting.

The title of the album, *Hope Is a Heavy Thing*, reflects Oladokun’s belief in the complexities of hope. Drawing on her mother’s experiences as a nurse, she considers the often weighty nature of striving for a better future. She cites historical figures like Malcolm X, who embody the tension between hopeful aspirations and the reality of necessary sacrifices. “It’s a pretty idea, but it’s a heavy reality to build,” she commented, emphasising the importance of confronting difficult truths in pursuit of equity and progress.

Oladokun has a distinct perspective as a Black and queer woman in the folk genre, aware of the limitations and assumptions that accompany her identities. As she rightly points out, the industry has often favoured narratives that fit familiar molds, which can hinder diverse voices. “We immediately think Bob Dylan, we don’t always think Odetta,” she noted, highlighting the need for a broader representation of artists within the folk genre.

This exploration of identity is also personal for Oladokun, who reflects on how her past continues to influence her present. One of the standout tracks from the album, “Toothache,” encapsulates this theme as she navigates her relationship with self-criticism and personal growth. She candidly discusses her decision to stop drinking during the album’s creation, illustrating a desire to confront her pain honestly and constructively.

Oladokun draws inspiration from her grandmother, a tomato farmer in Nigeria, who exemplified the power of grounded ambition rather than pursuit of grand accolades. “It feels really magical to be like, ‘Here is this. I’m a queer Black person who plays acoustic guitar,’” she stated. This ethos of craftsmanship over commercialism is at the heart of her work.

Ultimately, Oladokun’s intention for *Hope Is a Heavy Thing* is clear: to embrace and unpack the complexities surrounding her identity while forging connections with her audience through shared experiences of healing and reflection. “I think my most beautiful relationships and experiences have come from some sort of confrontation,” she shared, revealing her commitment to maintaining meaningful connections.

While the album grapples with significant societal issues, it also serves as a deeply personal narrative of self-reflection. As she recounts her journey, Oladokun acknowledges a shift in her approach to life. Although her understanding of a fulfilled life remains consistent, she is now more willing to actively pursue joy.

*Hope Is a Heavy Thing* is currently available on all major streaming platforms, inviting listeners to join Joy Oladokun on her resonant journey of hope, healing, and the exploration of identity.