Joshua Idehen, a British-born Nigerian poet, musician, and iconic spoken-word artist, has established himself as a vital voice within the jazz and electronic music scenes. Known for his stirring lyricism and poignant storytelling, Idehen has worked with celebrated groups like The Comet Is Coming (Mercury Prize nominees) and Sons of Kemet (MOBO Award winners), and collaborated with L.A. electronic legend Daedelus on Holy Water Over Sons. Now, he returns with his latest EP, Mum Does The Washing, released on November 8th, a four-track experience that entwines deeply personal reflections with mesmerizing rhythms.
Idehen’s collaboration with Swedish producer Ludvig Parment brings a modern, club-ready edge to his work, yet it remains rooted in raw poetic expression. Each track on Mum Does The Washing brings forward themes of love, resilience, and self-reflection in a way that resonates across cultures and generations.
The EP opens with the title track, “Mum Does The Washing,” a spoken-word piece that pays homage to the everyday wisdom of mothers, offering life lessons in the guise of household chores. The song radiates both warmth and humor as Idehen’s spoken poetry guides listeners through the life wisdom his mother imparted to him, piece by piece, as she handled the family’s laundry. The poetic simplicity of the track has already drawn acclaim from DJs and critics alike, including support from Jamz Supernova, Huw Stephens, and even Robbie Williams.
Following is “Could Be Forever,” a slow-burning track that dives into the heart of human connection and sacrifice. Idehen shares two true-to-life stories that inspired this piece: one of an immigrant man who was once a dentist but now works in London to support his daughter’s education, and another of an elderly Kenyan caring for his ailing wife. These narratives beautifully explore the depth of selfless love. Through gentle instrumentation and Idehen’s honest lyrics, “Could Be Forever” becomes a testament to love that transcends hardship and speaks to universal experiences of loyalty and dedication.
The next track, “Tactics For Survival,” captures the intensity of human resilience and adaptation. Crafted during the pandemic, this song arose from Idehen’s reflections on how people around the world coped with isolation and restriction. Estonian pianist Hanakiv’s haunting piano lines set a somber but rhythmic foundation, gradually building into a meditative dance track that contrasts its introspective lyrics with a pulsing beat. The result is a track that invites both contemplation and movement, offering listeners a kind of survival mantra through music.
The EP closes with a powerful rendition of Talking Heads’ classic “Once In A Lifetime.” Idehen’s interpretation brings a fresh, introspective quality to the song, imbuing it with his personal reflections on life’s unpredictability and the subtle anxieties that can arise even in moments of success. Supported by a gospel-infused choir that elevates the song’s closing lines, the cover brings a hopeful sense of closure to the EP.
Each track on Mum Does The Washing is a window into Idehen’s layered world—his Nigerian roots, his British upbringing, and his new life in Sweden all converge here, blending his cultural identities with themes of love, perseverance, and gratitude. This EP is a testament to Joshua Idehen’s evolving artistry, reminding listeners that profound, danceable music can carry the weight of life’s biggest questions.
