Artists like JG are truly redefining what it is to be a rap artist in today's hip-hop world. We've seen a complete metamorphosis in terms of what artists represent, and not only how they're portrayed, but how they present themselves. For those who have been around long enough to witness hip-hop from the eighties, through the nineties, and right into the new millennium, many will argue that we've watch the slow death of what we once knew. We've seen it start from artists coming with real "message" music to those who weren't saying anything at all. It had become more s stage show than anything, and not many truly respected the essence of the craft. In essence, it was no different than someone working a job simply for a paycheck, which goes against the whole code because the idea is that people are doing what they love. We're now arriving at a place where artists are becoming more attuned with themselves, and using the stories of their lives not only to elevate themselves, but connect their to the rest of the world. More importantly, we're seeing more artists with a genuine love for the art form, and it's reflecting in the product.
We recently ran the debut of JG's "Birds in LA", which feature Rich the Kid. With one watch if the clip, its clear to see he's bringing back the essence of hip-hop that has been missing for a long time. While he's not drilling you with any particular message, it's clear he's having fun, and his heart is in it. It gives you a sense not only of what can be expected from his album, but also the direction hip-hop is heading, and how things are truly
coming back around.
JG sat down to talk with us about the new single, the idea he had behind the track, and how this, as well as the upcoming barrage of singles will strategically lead us into his EP, which we'll likely get later this year.
U.G. Digital Mag: I appreciate you sitting down with us bro. Kudos for all that’s happening your way.
JG: Thank you man. I appreciate that.
U.G. Digital Mag: Start off first by talking about Birds in LA. There’s a lot that I can really appreciate, not just about the song, but also your delivery, overall flow, and I think the style you’re bringing is needed right now. There’s a lot in hip-hop that I struggle with in terms of direction, but you’re taking it in the right direction. With that in mind, talk about the single and your goals for that?
JG: Well I mean, with that record, just getting rich on it was a big thing because I wanted it to get the recognition it deserved. I felt like the verses were hot, and I was just trying to establish myself. Before this, I hadn’t had anything out there, so I was trying to establish myself, get on a record with somebody who may be in a different lane than myself, but also showcase what I’m trying to bring to the table. I feel like the record doesn’t have any real meaning per se, and its definitely not a political message. It’s just a dope record. I was showcasing my lyrical ability.
U.G. Digital Mag: I think people who look at it can see that there's not necessarily a cockiness, but more a level of confidence. Overall, it’s like I’m here, this is me, and this is what you get.
JG: Basically that's it. It’s really something that you speak about the confidence, because for me, it something that comes out more in my music. It’s like I’m two people. On the mic, things I want to say, that side of me comes out more.
U.G. Digital Mag: I think that’s good. How do you feel like taking it back to your own life, this will allow you to show more of that confidence outside of music?
JG: It’s not that I’m not confident. Im just not flamboyant or boastful. I don’t seek that, and my goal isn’t to flex on people. My goal is to make good music and hopefully, people will relate to my music. I don’t think this will really reflect superficially, but I am confident in my abilities. I’m just more reserved.
U.G. Digital Mag: I think a lot of people can appreciate that, and relate. I see where your influence comes from, and obviously you listen to the J. Coles, and those artists who people label as “artists with something to say”. I think people see it, but at the same time, you’re your own artist. Talk about how this single leads into the album?
