Collaboration has long been among the most inspiring things an artist can do. It’s more than just mixing sounds—it’s about trading ideas, mixing energies, and building something that couldn’t exist in a vacuum. That’s what makes Jameson’s Distilled Sounds so special.The spirit of togetherness has anchored Jameson since its start. Its Distilled Sounds platform amplifies that value in one of the most creative situations imaginable.
Back for its second year, this program brings together artists from around the world for an experience that’s less about chasing hits and more about creating meaningful connections. And at its helm, is a man who has mastered the art of collaboration, Jameson’s Music Distiller, Anderson .Paak. .Paak has been in groups, duos, featured on classic albums, produced tracks, and even laid down backing vocals—if it involves music, chances are he’s been a part of it. He’s a musical savant, but more than that, he’s one of the greatest collaborators of our time.
This time around, he’s teaming up with his creative house, APESHIT INC., to help handpick a new wave of international talent. Artists from South Africa, Nigeria, Malaysia, Portugal, and beyond are heading to Jameson’s home turf in Ireland to create without limits.
“We’re celebrating global creativity and helping artists connect beyond borders,” says Lynda Cody, Jameson’s Head of Experiences, Partnerships & Advocacy. “This aligns with our belief that if people share the same spirit and values—smooth, welcoming, and light-hearted—then no matter where they’re from, they Must Be A Jameson.”
This year’s lineup is stacked with genre-defying voices like EU.CLIDES, Monica Karina, Saint Kylo, Xenia Manasseh, Kethan, Mannywellz, and more. And trust—this is just the beginning. Keep reading to meet the artists shaping this year’s Distilled Sounds and find out how their worlds are coming together through music.
EU.CLIDES
The pride of Portugal, EU.CLIDES brings an eclectic flavor to Distilled Sounds this year. With roots in Cape Verde and a background in classical guitar, he pulls inspiration from music from everywhere he’s been–church choirs, Parisian jam sessions, global tours, and deep personal reflection. It’s his wide variety of sounds that make him the kind of artist who can spark something unexpected in any collaboration.
Lloyiso
This man sings with soul and passion every time he steps up to the mic. Lloyiso delivers music that is incredibly resonant, and whether it uplifts or allows reflection—you feel every word. At his core, he’s all about honest storytelling and using his voice to speak on love, growth, and the kind of vulnerability that sticks with you. This South African talent that specializes in Afropop brings a big, emotional sound to any collaboration he’s part of.
Skinner
If anyone has home court advantage in the Distilled Sounds booth, it’s Skinner. A homegrown talent straight out of Dublin, he brings a fresh dose of new wave punk to the mix—and it’s loud, raw, and refreshingly different. He’s the type to leave the mistakes in on purpose, chasing that unfiltered, authentic sound. With his rebellious energy and anything-goes approach, Skinner adds a gritty edge to this global crew of collaborators that’s more than welcomed.
Mary Ann Alexander
There’s a certain style and presence about Mary Ann Alexander that makes her and her music instantly captivating. Born in Bengaluru, India, she channels the spirit of late ’90s and early 2000s R&B, bringing smooth vocals and raw emotion into everything she touches. Her sound proves that music knows no borders—resonating deeply with a new generation drawn to vibes soaked in lust, infatuation, heartbreak, and reflection. With Mary Ann in the mix, every collaboration is guaranteed to pass the vibe check.
Monica Karina
The first thing that strikes you about Monica Karina when you hear her music is her rich, soulful tone. With runs and riffs for days, she’s mastered the art of blending soul, dance, jazz, and R&B over slick production to create truly addictive records. Hailing from Indonesia, Monica brings a fresh, genre-blurring perspective that reflects the vibrant, ever-evolving music scene in Southeast Asia. Her smooth versatility and global sound make her the perfect bridge between styles in this year’s Distilled Sounds line-up.
Xenia Manasseh
Xenia Manasseh‘s travels have deeply shaped her sound. From Nairobi to Atlanta to LA, each stop has added a new layer of discovery and cultural influence to her music. She’s no stranger to collaboration either—lending her pen and vocals to chart-topping albums and global features. With her genre-fluid style and rich storytelling, Xenia brings a deep sense of emotion, range, and polish to the Distilled Sounds sessions, making her a natural connector across cultures and styles.
Kethan
Kethan’s sound is rooted in emotion, culture, and storytelling. Coming from Nairobi, his music blends languages and traditions to create something deeply personal yet widely relatable. With a background that spans both group work and solo artistry, he brings a unique perspective on collaboration—balancing introspection with a desire to connect. At Distilled Sounds, Kethan adds a grounded, soulful energy that invites others to slow down, tap in, and create with intention.
Mannywellz
Mannywellz brings a genre-blending style that feels both soulful and futuristic. Born in Nigeria and raised in Maryland, his music fuses West African rhythms with hip-hop, R&B, and rich, melodic storytelling. With a sound that’s intentional, emotional, and rhythmically sharp, he creates space for vulnerability while still keeping the energy high. Mannywellz adds depth, texture, and a global perspective that’s perfect for building something bold and boundary-pushing. Perfect for Distilled Sounds.
Saint Kylo
“Ya bwoi is boutta show ‘em what Malaysia’s made of,” is how Saint Kylo announced his spot in Distilled Sounds—and honestly, he’s already repping the country loud and proud. With one of the grooviest, funkiest sound palettes in the mix, his style is tailor-made for high-energy collabs—especially with a funk connoisseur like Anderson .Paak at the helm. Saint Kylo’s the kind of artist who lights up any room he walks into, so expect him to bring serious vibes to every session.
KP Illest
When it comes to turning ideas into fully-formed records, few do it like Namibia’s own KP Illest. This MC is a lyricist, engineer, creative mind, and all-around collaborator. With a sharp pen and a clear vision, he blends precision with personality, offering a sound that’s as polished as it is honest. This summer, he’s pulling up to Dublin with that DIY spirit and global mindset, ready to bring structure, energy, and a distinct voice to the mix.
Moldanazar
When you listen to Moldanazar, you really start to understand two things: music is a universal language and a good vibe is a good vibe, no matter where it’s from. Coming from Kazakhstan, Moldanazar has got this wild blend of pop, funk, and moody rock that lives somewhere between synth-pop daydreams and late-night dance breaks. When he steps into the Jameson Compound for some dope collaborations, expect his unique sound to turn heads — and help put his country on the global music map.
