Discover: VanJess, The Nigerian Sister Duo Whose cover of Drake’s “Headlines” gained everyone’s attention

Nigerian-American singing duo Ivana and Jessica Nwokike (VanJess), are about to take the music world by storm! You’ll probably know them from their great YouTube covers of all our favourite songs such as Rihanna’s “Work” Drake & Wizkid’s “One Dance”, however, their cover of Drake’s “Headlines” is what gained everyone’s attention.

Born in Nigeria and raised in California, the duo takes inspiration from 90’s musicians like SWV, Jodeci, Brandy, Da Brat, and TLC. From a young age, the siblings knew they loved music, but it wasn’t until they were in high school that they explored their talent.

Speaking to EarMilk about when they realised they wanted to be musicians, the sisters said:

“When we were both in our late teens, around 17/18  is when it was definite, especially through the feedback we got from doing YouTube covers.

That was a development and journey in itself that really gave us a lot of confidence and inspiration to pursue music for real, but we always knew we wanted music in our lives some way.”

After rising to prominence due to their amazing covers, it’s safe to say that they’ve paid their dues which has seen them grow into making their own music. This is not a long shot for them as their talent is glaring, and they have that extra cool factor because they are sisters.

In 2015, they released an EP, 00 Till Escape which was a five-song project. Following the EP they started a steady stream of single releases and collaborations. 2016 really saw them come out as their own musicians when they released several tracks like “Adore”, “I Don’t Need Him,” and “Don’t Be a Stranger” which has led them to a feature with Goldink on their new track, “Through Enough”.

VanJess are currently working on their debut album and if “Through Enough” is anything to go by, we’re in for a treat!

Until then, you can check out the fun 90’s inspired video for “Through Enough” right here: