Tell us a few things about your new song “MAYBE”. What is the main idea behind it?
The idea behind the song is finding the right type of love in the dating world. Searching for that Martin and Gina love from the Martin Lawrence show or That Rashad and NEW NEW love from the movie “ATL”.
For which lyric you are most proud of?
HER BEAUTY IS LIKE A FLOWER
HER BOSSOM IS LIKE A RIBBON
Who is your favourite beat maker and which rapper’s flow do you enjoy the most?
808 MAFIA , I LISTEN TO A LOT OF MONEY BAGG, MEEK, G HERBO,
What does hip hop symbolize in your opinion?
Imagery and manifesting in creative form.
In which state of mind do you imagine people might listen to your music?
When they want to hear a banger
What is the one habit/thing you cannot live without?
Tell us a few things about your new song “Special”. What is the story behind it?
Special is just a heat check, the embodiment of confidence and self awareness. Basically it’s acknowledging your “it” factor.
What first got you into music?
Music is my diary, it allows me to share my thoughts and emotions. My experiences in life all reside in my music. It’s the essence of me.
Do you think there is a true underground hip hop sound today?
I don’t think so, hip-hop so universal and has so many sub genres and sounds.
Why is sexism, and even outright misogyny, so pervasive in Hip Hop culture?
I can’t speak for other artist, I can only speak for myself. Sexism & Misogyny aren’t an issue in my lyrics. I love women, we came from a woman, who am I to belittle someone based off sex.
When not writing music, how do you spend your time?
spending time with my family. My kids mean the world to me.
What is one message you would give to your fans?
Thanks for all the love and support, new music coming soon. Keep rocking with me.
I’d say my sound is melodic, conscious and cross continental hip hop, taking the best of those three and meshing them to create what is my sound
How many beats do you listen to before you end up using one? Tell us a few things about your creative process.
I usually have days where I go down a rabbit hole of listening to beats on youtube or those sent to me and just select the ones that I like (maybe 3 ot 5 at most) but the actual amount I listen to itself are too many to count haha. My creative process revolves around listening to what feeling the beat gives me and then I begin writing to it on that basis. So for example, if I hear a beat with a moody backdrop, It’ll tend to be quite an introspective track, whereas something more upbeat will be one evoking just that. There are some I try and will try to break that mould with just however just to be out of the box with my creativity
Which is your most personal and honest lyric?
Two sides to me, separated like apartheid but holding me together just like being apart, tied
Do you think there is a true underground hip hop sound today?
I think there definitely still is, and there always will be. I just think when you say “true”, that refers to it not being as prominent as it once was, say like in the 90’s/ early 2000’s. With that being said, it definitely still exists and is thriving as its own entity if you want to find it
What does hip hop symbolize in your opinion?
Hip hop for me symbolizes a social way of life, a culture that influences everyone around the world. From dress sense, to how people talk and act, it’s an influencer in itself. Furthermore, I think it’s the truest medium in music that depicts reality and tackles issues around the world, so it’s been a voice for the voiceless. Sure, it has things represented that don’t speak to that, but the art itself was founded on tackling poverty, racism, exclusive and crimes, and for me that’s what makes it a movement
When not writing music, how do you spend your time?
It’s pretty normal- outgoing, socializing and keeping up with my personal life away from the music. I’m big on sports too, so there’s always time for that, either to watch or participate
Tell us a few things about your new song “Love In Montana”. What is the story behind it?
“Love in Montana” loosely depicts an amazing trip I had to Missoula, Montana where I had the time of my life for a few short days! The vibe of that town is so chill and the people really have a thirst for life. I highly recommend visiting if you can. You’ll have the time of your life!
How would you describe your musical progress over time?
I just started releasing music in 2020 and over this short amount of time my music has changed a lot. I started doing more experimental and avant garde tracks and lately I’ve dabbled in slightly more commercial sounds. I truly love it all and I’m excited to continue this journey.
What first got you into music?
I got into music because I needed an outlet to grow as an artist but also share my experiences with the world. In the past, my creative practice was mostly focused on the visual and performing arts. Music gives me a platform to express myself in ways that I find cathartic but also uplifting. My goal is to share these feelings and discoveries with my audience and hopefully inspire them.
Favourite album of the past decade?
That’s a tough question. There are so many amazing albums that I still have on repeat. But if I had to pick one, I’m going with Frank Ocean “Channel Orange.” The album is damn near perfect and each song has an emotional core that transports you to another world. Frank seems to be able to craft entire movies with his songwriting and I’m just in awe of his talent and overall creativity.
Is Spotify the music industry’s new Gatekeepers?
Short answer, NO. I think the people are the new gatekeepers. It’s interesting to note, if you compare an artist’s catalog between streaming platforms, you’ll notice that the most popular songs of any particular artist are often much different on each platform. You can make a lot of conclusions from that info but for me it just means artists shouldn’t take the data from any of these platforms at face value. Just like you shouldn’t believe a song or live performance will always hit in different parts of the world.
When not writing music, how do you spend your time?
Right now, I’ve been watching a lot of NFL. I’m a part of this Fantasy Football League and it’s a lot of fun and takes my mind off of things. Other than that, I like to go out and check out local LA bands.
What would you say is your biggest vice?
Lately my biggest vice has been social media. It’s a necessity for me to be on these apps trying to grow my following and engaging with the people that like my music but oftentimes it doesn’t leave a lot of room for just living and spending time with my thoughts. I’ve been trying to find a balance but it’s rough, especially when I know how important these apps are to furthering my music career. I take it day-by-day though. That being said, follow me @JovikyJames on Instagram and Twitter. 😉
How many beats do you listen to before you end up using one?
It’s hard to say how many beats I listen to before using one because it depends on my mood, but if I had to put a number to it I’d have to say 1-5. I fortunately have a producer that feeds me music on a regular.
Tell us a few things about your creative process.
Lots of times I start writing without music because my mood drives a major part of my creativity and my longtime producer Charles “CY Muzic” Yates tends to match my mood almost effortlessly.
Which is your most personal and honest lyric?
My most personal and honest lyric comes in the form of a spoken word titled “Al Z. Heimer”, a heartfelt dedication to my father who passed of the disease in 2020. Listeners will get to experience “Al Z. Heimer” late December with the release of my upcoming mixtape.
Favourite rapper, lyricist and producer?
My favorite rapper happens to be and independent artist by the name of Young Malaki, once you hear her you’ll know why. Favorite lyricist also happens to be another independent artist who goes by TruWerdz. As an artist, TruWerdz lyricism is definitely underrated. Favorite producer I’d have to say is my longtime production associate, Charles “CY Muzic” Yates. He has a very rare and distinguished way of creating music that make us a perfect combination when it comes to creativity. Also, I have to give it up to JayBeatz, Blakkmoses, Mag-Illa on the Track, and Villain on the Beats for there dope contributions to my coming projects.
What does hip hop symbolize in your opinion?
HipHop to me symbolizes freedom, sanity in an insane world, and therapy.
What was the best film you have watched during the quarantine?
The Invisible Man
What is one message you would give to your fans?
To my now and future fans, “Thank you for lending me your ear and pushing me to be better, there is no me without you.” “There is no limit to the things you can achieve once you put your mind to it so keep pursuing greatness.”
Tell us a few things about your new song “2NITE” . What is the story behind it?
2NITE was written as a response to my wife who was my girlfriend at the time. We were vibeing out, having a good time and the connection was cool and chill, so my question to her was “what’s good for tonight?” lol, I was feeling myself way too much that evening to be honest, but we were seeing each other for a while and obviously I liked her and she liked me, so at the time it just felt right to take it to the next level. That’s basically how I came up with the idea behind the track.
For which lyric you are most proud of?
The hook is what I’m definitely proud of. The flow of the sounds and the vocal came together so well that I knew from that point I had something, it was just a matter of building out the rest of the song which I think came out great.
Do you have an artist that you would describe as a hidden gem that we should know about?
An artist you should definitely look out for is RIC808. He’s a DJ out of Bronx, NY. He’s probably going to kill me for this but besides being a well known DJ in NY, his productions skills are pure fire! and his vocals on tracks are unique and takes the song to a whole other level. Don’t let him fool you, He got vocals, lol!
What is the biggest challenge you have faced as an artist so far?
The biggest challenge I’ve faced so far as an artist is just putting everything together myself. I’ve had help from some close people of course but when your indie, just starting out and the budget is cool but not where you really want it to be, there’s always obstacles that kind of slows down the momentum but that’s what makes the journey and come up that much better. Wouldn’t have it any other way. It forces you to think outside the box a little and be creative.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Just to go hard at whatever it is you want to accomplish without being distracted. Follow your path and go with what moves you and makes you happy, whether it be physically or mentally. You want to go at it with passion and excitement. The rewards will come from the hard work put in.
One last thing we should know about you?
I’m just getting started man! We have a lot of dope music coming and other projects down the line that I’m extremely hyped about, and can’t wait for fans to hear and experience.
Tell us a few things about your new song “In My Head”. What is the story behind it?
During 2020 I started to place a bit more focus on my mental health. This was a time where I was just laid off from work because of the pandemic and I only had time on my hands. I didn’t want to continue the detrimental cycle of habits and I put a lot of effort to be as productive as I could be in bettering my mental health, and I’m so glad that I made that decision. But around the start or the middle of 2021, I realized that this pursuit for mental stability doesn’t simply end and it can actually turn into a cyclical chase to better oneself without the payoff of doing so. Essentially when I resolved one problem, another problem arose and it became more of a toxic state of mind. This was the lens that I was looking through when I wrote this song.
How would you describe your musical progress over these months?
Compared to my prepared releases, I’d say my newer songs and style have continued to evolve. It sucks because the music that people hear is music that I made like a year ago but it’s kind of nice to know that I’m sitting on some tracks that I think are musically the next step forward. The downside is I begin to hate my music pretty fast so by the time it’s out, I don’t enjoy listening to it. Nonetheless, I think with each song, my style is evolving and I’m starting to dip my toes in other genres that I want to incorporate into my music.
What first got you into music?
I’ve been playing music since I was like 8 years old. You know that stereotype that all Asians took piano lessons? Well… I fit that stereotype. But honestly, it wasn’t until my dad taught me my first few chords on the guitar when I really got into music. After doing my first couple of lessons, it was an upward trajectory from there with my interest and skills in playing the guitar which ultimately got me into writing my own songs.
What do you enjoy most? Writing music or performing your music live?
Back when I was in a band, I definitely enjoyed performing music live more than writing. Now that I’m kind of a single act, I think I enjoy the confines of my room while I make songs, but I’m playing more shows and really enjoy it still. Also, playing music with others definitely relieves the stress of messing up and embarrassing yourself.
What would you change in the music industry?
I’d like to switch all business-oriented executives running the industry who don’t understand the life of an independent artist to be switched out with musically creative professionals who have an experienced background within the business side of the music industry. Something that would be fun is to take those business executives, give them the living situation and budget of the average independent artist and tell them to start making their own music while building their own fanbase without the connections that they have. I think that would be a great reality show!… don’t steal my idea.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
I would probably berate him with crippling insults on his moronic behaviors (past and future) first. Then I’d say “Buy Apple stock and Bitcoin.”
What is the most trouble you’ve ever gotten into?
There are quite a few stories I could share here but I’ll share a more tamed story.
In middle school, my friend and I stole some alcohol from a market and we were chased out by the security guard and some cops that happened to be there. We bolted out of the store and took a sharp turn into the alleyway where there was a bush with a small opening. While my friend kept running forward, I dove head-first into the bush, went full prone position, and watched the dudes chasing me run right past me. Good times.
Tell us a few things about your new song “Its About Time”. What is the story behind it?
I wrote this song in the recording studio whilst my partner was working on her album! I had the concept of “It’s About Time” in my head as it had been over 5 years since my last release and I felt that the title of my first release needed to relate/explain my 5 year hiatus from the scene. So I sat in a little room and played a chord progression and things just started snowballing! After hearing artists like Anderson Paak. And Mac Miller come out with such incredible music I really wanted to allow myself to create music from those who I draw inspiration from. The song is all about chasing your dreams and working hard throughout the years, “I haven’t lost sight just grown up, increasing my understanding” refers to the current industry climate of Quantity over Quality. It’s About Time touches on some relevant issues from 2020/2021 such as Donald Trump, Covid and the 2020 Bushfires.
Which is your most personal and honest lyric?
After having a falling out with a teenager we harboured from an alcoholic and abusive family I wrote a song called “Hurts” the rap breakdown has some truth sprinkled throughout.
“Yo mumma buys you a party fridge and she stocks it, you never drink for fun, you drink for numbness. It’s pain relief from your upset, unresolved issues left to long, your influence shapes your growth, if you started in the wrong direction how are you supposed to know which way to go?”
What do you enjoy most? Writing music or performing your music live?
I love both sides of music creation equally! There is something so free about sitting in a room with your thoughts and creating music that you vibe to. However something that is equally as fun is bringing that music to life on stage and giving/receiving the crowd energy!
What is the biggest challenge you have faced as an artist so far?
The biggest challenge I have faced as an artist is my own thought patterns and inner critique. With music I sometimes feel like the more you know the more you realise how little you know. Being critical of your own work as an artist is integral to creating meaningful art you can be proud of, however if that inner dialogue ends up slowing or ruining your ability to release or enjoy music you have created then you have to find a way to silence it. I have seen too many incredible musicians not release music based off of their own insecurity.
When not writing music, how do you spend your time?
When I am not writing music I find myself either; Practicing music, performing music or watching my fellow musicians at local venues, weddings and functions.
However when Covid struck our industry I was fortunate enough to get a job as a guitar luthier and technician at my local music superstore Mooloolaba Music. Going into work daily has helped me gain a more productive lifestyle and rigid schedule, I am so grateful for their support as I chase my dreams daily to be a touring original music artist.
When was the last time you danced?
I danced up a storm on stage at Caloundra Music Festival and at my Original show at Lefty’s! Basically any time I am on stage singing original music I’ll be dancing.
How many beats do you listen to before you end up using one? Tell us a few things about your creative process.
It varies from track to track and project to project . Some days I could sift through dozens of beats and get nothing, other days I could pick 1 beat and instantly get a vibe off it , I generally freestyle over beats to see what sounds , flows and melodies sound good and then I’ll build from that . My daily life has a massive influence on what I’ll write about too, that energy then gets passed to the page, I feel it’s real good for the mind , I love writing when I feel a strong emotion (happy, angry, sad , love etc) because I know everyone is human and we all feel emotion , it’s a great way to connect with the listener.
Which is your most personal and honest lyric?
I’d say my most personal song I wrote was coming home , I was at a very trying point in my life and felt like giving up . My partner who is extremely supportive told me to try and sing on a track instead , it was such a vulnerable track for me and I was brutally honest in it . I’m not the best singer but the passion really shines through in the track and you can really hear the uncertainty coming through the lyrics.
I’m a very honest writer so I couldn’t really fixate it on one lyric I’ve written but my top 3 would be:
They call it present because this moments a gift .
I used to care how they felt about me but then I opening up my eyes and I see
Reals about raising your girl to be queen and raising your sons to be kings.
Favourite rapper, lyricist and producer?
Favourite rapper would be Aitch. He has fun with it , and has some crazy flows and word play.
Favourite lyricist would be Dermot Kennedy , he’s incredibly descriptive with his words and you can feel every line he says.
Favourite producer for me , I’d have to keep it close to home and say Chris Kabs , the man is genuinely a genius , if you listen to any tracks from his massive catalogue the level is incredible , he has an incredible eye for details and really makes sure every production matches the songwriting
Trap music came to rule the world, but at the moment the genre feels stagnant. What does the future hold for hip hop in general?
Music is like fashion , it changes with seasons and always evolves , right now drill is massive , I do see this changing , there are so many sub genres in music and it’s really hard to put your finger on one and say, once artists are being authentic and do what they love then they will excel further that they’ve ever imagined
In which state of mind do you imagine people might listen to your music?
I’d imagine people would listen to my music , when they need that kick of motivation to inspire them to do something and make a change , I write music for myself but it’s massively impacted a lot of people I’m so grateful for that , I’m only human though and like anyone I have my struggles, I put my thoughts , plans and pain on paper and that’s what I enjoy about it
Should we expect an album in the near future?
Further down the line I will definitely work on an album , I will be working in my debut E.P very very soon , I want to showcase what I can do as an artist and after that I can really see me working on an album as I grow as and artist
King Uche is a Nigerian artist who currently lives in Miami, Florida and Los Angeles, California: this allows him to give his music that touch of originality and uniqueness gave by hip hop and afrobeat sounds of West Africa, mixed with the optimistic taste of life in California. Today he presents his latest EP entitled “UCHE MUSA”, which deals with real-life events: the reign of Mansa Musa, the Nigerian civil war and the fight of King Uche to be born in the ghettos of Nigeria.
All this gave him the inspiration for his music, which the singer wants to make as a sort of spiritual stimulus for all those who have no motivation and impulse: a positive and uplifting message on the notes of Hip Hop and Afrobeats. Despite his failures and his past, King Uche’s determination has not waned, but rather gives comfort and companionship to anyone who listens to him!
Which song of the EP reflects you the most?
The EP, ‘UCHE MUSA’ is one that is based on a couple of life events. The reign of Mansa Musa (whom the EP is based off), the Nigerian Civil War (that led to the loss of over a million indigenous “Igbos”), and King Uche’s own life struggle of being born in the harsh, poverty-stricken ghettos of Nigeria have all inspired him to become a man of his own, with a purpose greater than him. In the EP, King Uche dives into sensitive topics that interest him. Such as Love, Life, Hate, Purpose, Society. On “Rise Up’ he reflects on the political turmoil and the after effects of the #EndSARS global movement that made U.S. President Biden and Hillary Clinton to speak up about. In his song ‘Can’t Lose’ he speaks to the youth and motivates/reminds them that anyone can win and achieve anything as long as they want it and never give up on it. In ‘Love Go’ King Uche dives into the world of heartbreaks and betrayal as he himself suffered the biggest betrayal of his life from those closest to him. The entire EP elicits very strong emotional responses from all who listen to his words.
Favourite rapper, lyricist and producer?
Jay Z, Rick Ross, Gucci Mane, Lil Wayne, Drake, Young Dolph, Kodak Black, Meek Mill,Travis Scott
HipHop Paranoia 