J.LOCKE Perseverance When did you first get into music? What was your inspiration? I’ve always loved music. I was always beating on something. Be it drums in the church or freestyling in a battle at school. It was natural. My first record came much later, but I can still remember as child being excited with sounds and melodies. My inspiration is life. It’s therapy.
What has been your biggest challenge as a performing artist? Have you been able to overcome that challenge? If so, how? I think the biggest challenge we have today is being able to control your art and your price point. Streaming has been a blessing and curse. It allows you to be heard, but you get paid less than a penny for that freedom.
How has your music evolved since you first began creating music? Music is a craft that cannot sit still. It’s always changing and reinventing itself. I feel more comfortable with my craft today because it is 100% me. No filter, no lies, just me. I am at the moment. It’s freeing.
A common phrase in the industry is, “you must suffer for your art.” Do you agree with this statement? If so, how have you suffered for your art? Your art is like anything else, it can be your saving grace or it can be your personal jail. It’s all in how you work it. I have suffered because there were times I did not know the value of my work.
Which ingredient do you think makes you special and unique as a performing artist in an industry overflowing with new faces and ideas? The faces change, but the sound and creativity is very much the same. Because, I am free to express my personal experiences and ideas. It allows me to individualize the message and how I present it. I see a lot of Migo babies being pushed and tossed around. Everybody raps the same and move the same. It’s easy to stand out now-a-days. Just be original.
How do you feel the internet has impacted the music industry? Again, I think it is a blessing and curse. lol! Sure, it gives you access to the entire world, but it also cost money and a strong game plan. People with money control that vast space and try to give you the illusion of having that kinda reach, but in reality it’s no more profitable than you selling CDs in the 90’s. Sure we get heard but not as many see true profits from their work.
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