Interview With J. Morgan! (@JMorganMuzic)
Photo Credit: R54 Photography
- How did you get started in the music industry?
Music has played a big role in my life since I can remember. My Dad is a big fan of all genres so I grew up with a mix of musical idols. When I was in elementary school I played in the band and sang in the choir. In Middle School, I had lead roles in school musicals such as Bye Bye Birdie and The Music Man. In High School, around age 14/15, is where rapping/freestyling/song writing came into play. I started working day jobs to fund my music endeavors and from there the real schooling began and over the years I’ve learned a lot about this forever changing industry.
- How would you describe your sound?
Smooth and down to earth. My style is reminiscent of classical Hip-Hop but I rap over current sounding instrumentals. I have a lot of positive uplifting messages in my music which I feel is lacking in Rap/Hip-Hop music. I try to make songs that every day people can relate to and take away something from the lyrics.
- Who are your musical inspirations?
I love the classic Hip-Hop like Rakim, Arrested Development, Hieroglyphics and the list can continue. 2pac, Biggie, Eminem, and Outkast . I’ve been influenced by Rock and Roll too. From Jimmy Hendrix to AC/DC, I’ve always enjoyed rock especially live rock music. Currently I am listening to a lot of Macklemore, Kendrick Lamar, Logic and Atmosphere. I like new artists like Lil Dicky, G-Eazy, Sammy Adams and Snow Tha Product. There is so much good music out there that it’s hard to keep up with. I get inspiration from any artist who is able to create and maintain in this business. It takes a lot of passion.
- Can you tell us about your single “Party Like Your Last Day”?
Party Like Your Last Day is available for streaming and download everywhere. The record was produced by Stife and has a real feel good vibe to it. The song concept and lyrics came so naturally. I think it only took us about an hour to write all of the lyrics but it just felt so perfect. We also shot a pretty big video for the song which is out now on YouTube.
Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5IiwJI2OGWk&t=133s
- What inspired the song?
We wanted to make a song that people could have a good time to and feel good about life. The instrumental is what really inspired the song concept.
- What can fans expect from your album “Livin’ Lyrics”?
I opened up a lot about myself on this new album. In songs like “Moments” and “Wasted Talent” I explain my journey through life and music while touching down on the struggles of being a self investor in my own independent music career. My song “Day Dreamin” describes my anxiety filled life, the depression I constantly battle and the tricks I use to maintain a positive outlook. There is a lot of content about learning and growing to become a better musician and ultimately a better person. I want people to listen to this album and feel like they were right by my side from 2008-2017 when I was growing into the person I am today. I’ve truly lived my life through lyrics so that is why the album is titled “Livin’ Lyrics”.
- What was the recording process like?
Some of the songs on this album were recorded in 2014. I took my time with each song. I recorded everything at 3 different studios with 3 different engineers. Bryce Grave did the mastering and we all worked together to make the best songs and make everything sound cohesive. I did most of the writing in studio but some songs I wrote by myself at home or on the road.
- Do you have any other upcoming projects that your fans can look forward to?
I have two new music videos which can be found on the J.Morgan YouTube channel. The new album drops in December and until then I’ll be releasing 3 more music videos and singles. I’m planning a US tour in the beginning of 2018.
- What are your social media accounts?
https://www.instagram.com/jmorganmusic/
https://m.facebook.com/RealJMorgan/
https://m.youtube.com/c/jmorganmusic
https://www.instagram.com/grownupentertainment/
https://mobile.twitter.com/jmorganmuzic
http://jmorganmusic.tumblr.com
https://m.soundcloud.com/mjon60
https://open.spotify.com/artist/6tzkd3s1XEUVGhr34j4tIV