Musician Barak Jacuzzi has opened up about his childhood, revealing how being sent from the U.S. to Kenya by his parents as punishment became a formative experience that shaped both his personality and outlook on life.
Speaking in an interview on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, Barak described his parents as highly educated: his father is a clinical psychologist, and his mother is a doctor in education. “They’re regular African parents,” he said.
Barak explained that the trips to Kenya, initially intended as punishment, became transformative. “I used to get sent here for punishment… maybe in Class 6, Class 8, Form 3. At first, I thought it was harsh, but over time I realised I was having a great time,” he said.
When asked if his upbringing shaped his personality, Barak reflected on himself. “I’m just a crazy guy. I like to vibe out. When I’m having fun, I don’t like to put constraints on the things I say or do. If I’m going to do something, I want to do it at 100% with no regrets,” he said.
Reflecting on the punishment trips, Barak said they ultimately became a blessing. “It was chaotic at first, but it ended up shaping who I am today: resilient, unapologetic, and full of energy. I wouldn’t be here without it,” he said.
Music career
Barak revealed that he started rapping in the U.S. shortly before moving back to Kenya permanently in 2016. “I began music naturally, I was already throwing events and doing radio, so it felt like the next step,” he said.
Since then, he has collaborated with top artists including Octopizzo, Tanasha, Bien, Khaligraph Jones, Scar, and Boutros. He described Bien as his favourite collaborator due to his unfiltered approach and mastery in the studio.
Barak attributed his start in music to his brother’s encouragement: “My brother used to tell me that I’m a really good rapper. He was like, ‘You should rap.’ And so I just started rapping.”
