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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

If you could change anything about the music industry, what would it be?

Give it back to the artist. Let the true artist create. I would like to stop music from being weopinized and allow it to be in the hands of true creatives. At a time, you could not sound like another artist and you could not be fake.

What are the 5 albums that have helped make you the person you are today?

1. Aquemni, 2. God Sent Me (mines), 3. Mr & Mrs (mines), 4. The Roots, 5. Like Water for Chocolate (Common)

What is the best advice you have received?

Be you.

Tell us about your current project.

I wrote “Grateful” during the pandemic. So, I had a lot of time to self reflect and grow. By far this is my best body of work, but it is also the most creative. I’ve become even more comfortable in my skin and in my creativity. I have this desire to visit Africa so that influence is heard. I’m connected to my people. I’m a wiser man. A father, all of this reveals itself.

What’s next for you?

I’m not sure what the future will bring, but I’m preparing for my legacy. I’m preparing to set my bloodline up for greatness.

How can fans-to-be gain access to your music and follow your career?

I have music on all digital outlets, just look up J.Locke and start with the MR & MRS album. Sidenote, this has been a great interview great questions. Thank you!!

Also reach me on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook at: JLockeSMG