Born & raised on the island of Cyprus in the Mediterranean, YNI—whose real name is Jonathan Yanni Philippou—was drawn to music from a young age. Influenced by his mother, a British opera singer & radio host deeply involved in theatre & the performing arts, & his father, a club hip-hop/EDM/pop DJ from the 90s and early 2000s, YNI's musical journey was shaped by a rich tapestry of sounds, styles & cinematic movement. Having experimented with nearly every instrument & produced tracks across a wide array of genres, he views music as an endless realm of creative possibilities. His influence stems from cinema, world culture & the human depth. His distinctive sound features a unique fusion of shadowy hip-hop beats, deep eclectic house rhythms, world ethnic influences, and moody, organic piano synth melodies. With a debut EP and several standout singles already under his belt, YNI continues to innovate, crafting an ever-evolving soundscape.
In addition to his musical pursuits, YNI has a deep love for cinematography & videography. With years of experience behind the camera, he is dedicated to capturing life's special moments through his lens. His passion for visual storytelling complements his musical work, infusing his projects with a cinematic quality that reflects his multifaceted artistic vision. As he works on his debut album, YNI continues to explore new creative frontiers, seamlessly integrating his musical & visual talents into a cohesive and dynamic artistic expression.
After a remarkable transformation, losing 140 pounds and shedding light on the path from 350 lbs to 200 lbs, Yanni has become a source of inspiration and guidance for those on their own health journeys. Overcoming to this day an eating disorder, migraines, and vertigo, Yanni has adopted a carnivore and organic lifestyle, with a focus on avoiding gluten, dairy, and caffeine. This personal experience has not only shaped a commitment to physical well-being but also fuels a deep passion for supporting others.
With a keen interest in mental health and trauma recovery, Yanni is dedicated to helping you navigate your health and wellness journey. Whether you're looking to enhance your creative pursuits or advance your business endeavors, Yanni is excited to offer guidance and support to foster progress and holistic well-being.