In today’s music industry, few figures can rival JPEGMAFIA’s aggressive, confrontational, and chaotic energy. Known to those who love him as “Peggy,” the rapper and producer has crafted a style that draws influence from Kanye West, Björk, Radiohead, Talking Heads, Arca, and even Chief Keef. Over the past few years, he’s become a massive counterculture punk icon, unapologetically speaking his mind and angering as many people as he can in the process. Though his unorthodox sound and anarchistic political messaging are often compared to Death Grips, Peggy has carved a unique niche in the industry. His music fuses futuristic industrial, R&B, trap, and noise, all laced with aggressive messages. His self-made style leaves listeners baffled as to how he went from a military career to creating songs that are now counterculture staples.
JPEGMAFIA was born Barrington DeVaughn Hendricks in 1989 in Flatbush, Brooklyn, New York City, where he spent his early childhood. Being from Brooklyn he hails from a diverse environment that also produced artists like Biggie, Jay Z, Yasin Bey, Joey Bada$$ to name a few. When “Peggy” was 13, his family moved to Alabama and later to Louisiana, where he stayed until enlisting in the U.S. Air Force at 18. Reflecting on this decision, Peggy said in an interview –I thought, I have no other options. I could either die here or at least get out of my situation.” The military offered an escape from what he described as a traumatic childhood.
Peggy found the military to be a terrifying and isolating environment. Despite the challenges, this period became pivotal in his artistic development. He began using music as a creative outlet. Stationed in Kuwait, Germany, Japan, North Africa, and Iraq, Peggy had little more than a computer and downtime to channel his experiences into music. The chaotic and discordant sound of his productions reflects the mental toll of these postings. During his time in the Air Force, Peggy was vocal about the toxic culture he witnessed, which often led to his isolation. Yet, these confrontational tendencies would later define his music and online persona. While stationed in Japan, Peggy started performing and began to envision a career in music. However, the mental strain of his military life left him feeling alienated and lonely—a sentiment echoed in his early musical work.
In 2015, Peggy was honorably discharged from the Air Force. In a 2018 interview he stated –“My discharge is honorable on paper, but I was shunned for going against the code.” This chapter of Peggy’s life undoubtedly shaped his rebellious ethos and fuels the bold, unapologetic energy that defines his music today. From house shows in Japan to becoming a counterculture icon, JPEGMAFIA defies the industry norms as he wields the transformative power of music.
For the Stockholm resident with a passion for Hip Hop and R&B, attending JPEGMAFIA's concert is recommended and offers an opportunity to witness an artist who not only shares the culture but also actively engages in the fight for the culture. His performances are known for their raw energy and unfiltered commentary, providing both entertainment and a platform for reflection on important social issues.
Don't miss the chance to experience JPEGMAFIA live in Stockholm January 17th at Fållan, the renowned venue located in Stockholms new entertainment hub Slakthusområdet. Doors typically open at 7:00 PM, with the show starting around 8:00 PM.
This concert promises groundbreaking music and engagement with themes of empowerment that resonate deeply within the Nordic Black community.
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