As the summer comes to a close, there are many artist trying to get ready for the 4th quarter of the year. Detroit’s emerging artist JP One happens to be one of those emcee’s, who will also be setting the bar for his music career. Since being released from prison after serving a lenghty sentence, JP’s material has made its way onto sites such as VladTV, WorldStarHipHop, and many more major platforms all in a matter of 4 years. His grind define’s “if you get knocked down dust yourself off and try again” and never give up in life.
Throughout his career, JP managed to pump out 5 mixtapes and a vast collection of videos. Therefore, we thought we should catch up with the Gifted & Talented CEO before he releases his forthcoming project. In a recent interview we got up close and personal with JP. Take a look at the interview below to get to know the aspiring artist and CEO a little better!
What was it like growing up in Detroit?
Well, I grew up in Benton Harbor. I moved back to Detroit as a teenager, I was born here, though. Benton Harbor is close to Chicago and it’s country as hell, so moving to the city was like a breath of fresh air. As I got older, I realized that Detroit had a lot more to get into, so I began to explore. I represent Southwest, but I’m respected all over the city. They love me here. It’s bad, but a little respect goes a long way.
How hard was it to overcome the death of your father and a troubling relationship with your mother?
I never knew my father. I was only five months old when he passed. I’ve heard we have a lot in common, though. He died of an overdose, so I have never tried anything other than weed and I don’t drink or smoke now. My mom was an alcoholic, but she’s doing a lot better, now. Being that I have a high probability for substance abuse, I try to steer clear of them, all together.
Have you mended your relationship with your mother?
My mom and I are fine. Not that there was much to mend. I had to let go of a little anger, because I felt like she could have made me and my brother’s life a lot easier by simply getting clean and she didn’t. We’ve had a short convo about it, but that’s about it.
What did you learn from the game when signing with Motown’s legend Barrett Strong?
I was only 15 when I signed with Barrett Strong. He showed me love and Had me recording in a top of the line studio as a teenager. The problem came when I wanted to do some things that he didn’t understand. Music has come a long way since the Motown days, but the overall goal hasn’t. Mr. Strong knew what had to be done to make money, but I was trying to lead the mixtape charge. In 2000, no one was doing mixtapes. 50 ain’t really blow from them until about 2002. Now everyone has a mixtape. LOL
We see you’ve had a hard time with the law and served a lengthy prison term. What led to your incarceration?
Well, I had a deal at 15 and I worked on my debut album for a little over a year. When I turned 17, I was basically on my own. The deal wasn’t netting me a dime and I had grown man responsibilities. I had a couple jobs that was paying me little to nothing, so I started selling a little weed to make ends meet. After a while, I started selling dope and shortly after that, I started robbing people. I got knocked for a kick-door (home invasion) and got nine years.
What advice would you give to anyone out there facing a long prison sentence?
Don’t snitch.
Who are your musical inspirations?
My musical influences are Prince amd Michael Jackson. Prince is a genius and he plays a million instruments. I can’t play one, so I know how much work that is. Michael was infallible. Every step and note was perfect. He was born to do music. As far as rappers go, I grew up listening to everything from Too Short to 8Ball and MJG to Public Enemy. I just love music.
Which artists would you like to work with in the future?
I want to work my way up the ladder. I need Kevin Gates, Don Trip, Starlito, Gangsta Gibbs, Nipsey Hussle to rock with me ASAP. Then I need T.I. and Yo Gotti to rock with me. Then, I need Drake, Kindred Lamar and J. Cole.
What projects are you currently working on?
I am currently working on Fire & Brimstone 3, which will be released December 14th on my own imprint, Gifted & Talented, LLC. The first one dropped March 9th and the second one dropped July 27th. I have Boldy James, Elzhi, Black Milk, and Guilty Simpson, just to name a few.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
As big as any other great independent artist… like Nipsey Hussle or Tech N9ne. My fanbase is growing everyday and each project is getting bigger and better. I want to own a few companies, so I can still make money in my sleep my company does more than music, so I’m trying to get my roster full asap.
Lastly, what’s one thing that you want everyone to know about you?
Everyone should know that I’m focused. #WESTILLWINNING
Get familiar with some of JP One’s recent projects at the links below.
http://www.soundcloud.com/chosen1jackpot
http://www.audiomack.com/album/chosen1jackpot/fire-brimstone-2-1
