JXXIII "Neo-Soul Chill Boom-Bap Conscious Afro-Trap?"
Tell me a little bit about your background. Where are you from and how did you get started in music?
I’m from the suburbs of Metro Atlanta, Douglasville to be exact. I got started in music with an interest in writing poetry in high school. I had notebooks full of stories and poems. Eventually I decided to turn them into recordings. At a young age, I knew I wanted to do something with music.
How did you come up with JXXIII as a name?
My first name is Joycelynn so when I was coming up with a stage name, I combined it with 23, which was my jersey number at the time at school. I shortened my stage name to J23 because it
sounds cool and mysterious. I also chose Roman numerals to add more mystique.
Prior to your success what did you see as a major drawback by being a new artist?
It’s a major investment. It requires you to be intentional and present in your actions. Althou
gh it's a dream for us all, it becomes more real the more we put into our music careers.
What have people who have heard your music say about your lyrical style that sets you apart from another MC or singer?
People say I have my own style, a nice flow that is very chill and a good subject matter that they can relate to.
If you could perform anywhere in the world where would it be?
Sounds of Brazil (SOBS) in NYC.
Who is your favorite independent Hip Hop or Soul Act today?
I really like the vibes ‘Tems’ puts out, very positive, mellow and unique. She reminds me of a female ‘Sampha’.
As an independent artist, what are some of the challenges you face?
Being consistent in creating music, quieting the noise all around and staying motivated.
How would you describe your music to those who have never heard it before?
Neo-soul chill boom-bap conscious afro-trap? Haha I’m full of many styles yet always wanting to try new styles.
Who are your musical influences?
Common, Kanye West, John Legend, A Tribe Called Quest, Jhene Aiko, Sade, Lauryn Hill, J. Cole, Brandon Hines.
How do you prepare yourself mentally for public opinion (either positive or negative) when you’re preparing for a new song release?
Just remembering to be open to feedback that will help me grow and knowing not to take things so personal.
How many singles/albums / Collaborations do you have out presently and what is your favorite album/song to date?
I have currently 15 singles out , 2 albums and too many collaborations, most collaborations are on my compilation ‘The Lost Files’.
Tell me about your latest album/ single and what was your inspiration behind it? Is it out now and where can people buy it?
The latest EP is called ‘In Due Time’ released in 2021 , the inspiration behind it was that everything that I am manifesting for my life and career is happening in divine timing so that's why I called it ‘In Due Time’.
Who have you collaborated with during your career?
Many talented indie and some mainstream artists, I started collaborating with artists in 2013 when I dropped my first mixtape. To name a few, I’ve worked with the likes of 'Siergio, Lauren Babic, Bryan Roberts, Chris O’Bannon and The Game'.
If you could collaborate with any artist who would it be?
Great question, I would love to work with ‘Frank Ocean’, I feel he is very ahead of his time and has a beautiful voice.
What has been your most enjoyable moment in music?
I love being in the studio, working and learning new things. I really enjoyed making my new record ‘In Mind’ with my collaborator 'S777' and my recording engineer 'Bryan Rivera' because we were in a very free vibe together.
What other pastimes , hobbies or talents do you have?
I love working out, reading, eating good foods, traveling and I’m heavily getting into gardening and plants.
Who produces your music and how do you go about constructing your beats?
I have a few producers I work with. I work with ‘Absent’ who is from South Africa, we are working on constructing a sound together. I’m open to working with producers I can build something special with, like a Drake/40 relationship.
Do you have any advice for any new artists coming into this challenging music scene?
Believe in yourself, trust the process and invest in yourself. Keep grinding, it may not happen overnight but your breakthrough will happen eventually.
Just for fun - *The Indie Post pointless question of the month* What would be worse Garth Brookes trying his hand at Neo Soul or Fela Kuti Singing Opera?
Haha I think Fela singing opera would be kinda cool and interesting to hear lol.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/J23Music
Artist page: https://www.facebook.com/J23Music
EPK: www.sonicbids.com/band/jxxiii/
Record Label: CAQ Records
IG: https://www.instagram.com/jxxiii/