Mbutho Paul Juma

August 27, 1976- May 11, 2024

Mbutho "Paul "Seed Popular" Juma, born on August 27, 1976, in Kitwe, Zambia, to Alfani Mpango and Mwali Juma, passed away peacefully on May 11, 2024. His life was a testament to passion, creativity, and a deep commitment to his community and loved ones.

In 1980, the Juma family relocated to Washington, D.C., where Mbutho grew up and embraced new opportunities. He attended Francis Scott Key Elementary, Langley Park-McCormick, Buck Lodge Middle School, High Point High School, and Howard University. His academic journey was complemented by his spiritual one at Our Lady of Sorrows Church in Takoma Park, Maryland, where he was baptized and chose the name "Paul."

During his high school years, Mbutho developed a profound love for music, which he expressed through his participation in the church choir alongside his brother and a close friend. This passion for music evolved into a deep involvement in the rap scene. The Freestyle Union workshop became a sanctuary for Mbutho, where he honed his skills as an artist and an emcee, fostering a community of creatives and collaborators.

In the early 2000's , Mbutho relocated to New York City with his then-girlfriend, reconnecting with Joe Villaroman and Langston Sessoms. Together, they formed Rule4080, a promotional blog that started as a playful endeavor to crash industry parties and grew into a respected platform that garnered significant industry attention.

Mbutho's professional journey included working as a Campaign Strategist at Locality, where he brought his creative talents and strategic mind to support various initiatives. His ability to connect with people and drive impactful campaigns was widely recognized and appreciated by his colleagues and clients.

Mbutho's unwavering support for Derrick "D-Nice" Jones before the quarantine period proved pivotal. As Club Quarantine gained global recognition, Mbutho became affectionately known as the "CQNY Mayor." His involvement in these virtual and live events allowed him to connect with countless individuals, many of whom became extended family.

Mbutho's legacy is one of kindness, creativity, and community. His ability to bring people together through music and shared experiences left an indelible mark on all who knew him. He is survived by his mother, Mwali, his sisters Faila, Lila, Babby, and Esther, his brothers Shatungwa and Alfani II, his nieces Tiffany and Ariel, his nephews Mikah, Joel, and Elijah, and plenty of cousins and extended family in Congo.