“From Hunger To Hope: Zlatan Ibile Unveils Emotional Story Behind Upcoming Album”

Afrobeats sensation Zlatan Ibile has opened up about the emotional and personal journey behind his highly anticipated third studio album, “Symbol of Hope.”

According to Ireporter Online, the rapper shared insights during an interview alongside his son, Shiloh, where he reflected on how his life experiences shaped the project’s message and inspiration. Zlatan described the album as a reflection of his evolution from a struggling dreamer to a symbol of perseverance and triumph.

“When I was growing up, I had people I looked up to—those who rose from nothing to greatness through sheer talent and determination,” he explained. “They became my symbols of hope. Today, I’ve also become that symbol to others — including my son.”

The Zanku Records frontman revealed that his difficult childhood, marked by the struggle to afford three meals a day, served as a driving force behind the themes of the album. He said the record mirrors his grind, sleepless nights, and unwavering determination to rise above hardship.

“When I was young, life was tough. It was hard to eat three times a day. But those experiences built me. I had to work harder than most and constantly remind myself that I wanted to be great,” Zlatan said.

The rapper further disclosed that “Symbol of Hope” took two years to produce, involving intense recording sessions and meticulous refinement to ensure every track authentically represented his story. The album is set for release on October 17, 2025, and is expected to inspire listeners with its message of resilience, growth, and self-belief.