From the heart of Akron, Ohio, emerges a voice that refuses to be ignored. Emerald Neki, a name quickly resonating in the world of conscious and soulful hip hop, isn’t just making music; she’s making a movement. With over 1.7 million views on Instagram for her touching and triumphant anthem “Autism Don’t Define Us”, Emerald is using her platform to speak for families, parents, and children whose stories often go untold.
Emerald’s music is a reflection of her life: heartfelt, motivating, and fiercely authentic. Inspired by legends like Beyoncé, Drake, and Lauryn Hill, her sound carries versatility, vulnerability, and strength. But what sets Emerald apart isn’t just her lyrical depth; it’s her unwavering commitment to purpose. A mother to children with different abilities, she doesn’t shy away from her truth. Whether it’s writing songs during home recording sessions with her kids or taking them to the studio, her family is woven into every verse.
Adding even more power to her presence, Emerald often shares the stage with her twin sister Jade Kouture, creating a dynamic duo that brings twice the energy and emotion to every performance. Their bond, both personal and artistic, adds another layer of meaning to Emerald’s music and mission, showing the strength that comes from unity, sisterhood, and shared purpose.
Emerald’s creative process is raw and productive. Using her iPhone notepad and carefully selecting beats that speak to her soul, she can craft four to five songs in a single session. Each lyric is rooted in lived experience, from overcoming spinal surgeries to navigating the challenges of raising autistic daughters. Emerald turns pain into poetry.
Beyond the mic, she’s also a savvy entrepreneur. Independently growing her brand through online marketing and authentic engagement, Emerald proves that real music still has a place in the digital age. With dreams of expanding her record label and autism awareness apparel line into billion-dollar ventures, her mission is bigger than streams or charts. It’s about impact.
Emerald wants her listeners to feel seen, supported, and accepted. Her music isn’t just for entertainment. It’s a sanctuary. And judging by the numbers and the momentum, it’s clear the world is listening.
Stream: “Autism Don’t Define Us”
Instagram: @emeraldneki
Follow Her Twin: @jadekouture3
