King Jai has risen in the rap scene by an unusual tactic. His marketing strategy involved him walking with a billboard through his populous city of Atlanta, earning him the crown of “The Hardest Working Rapper In The Game.” His work ethic is apparent in his music, earning him a multi-year music distribution and TV Sync deal with AMG//SONY out of Toronto, Canada.
His latest track ‘Houdini’ features talented Birmingham rapper JABO. The track features a hard-hitting beat paired with an infectious synth. This is the perfect canvas for him to lay down his bars alongside JABO, his voice is laced with emotion and rawness that showcases his passion for his craft and taking it to the very top.
In this interview spotlight, I chat with King Jai about the latest release, challenges and more.
Full Q&A along with links and music below.
Where are you from and how do You describe your style of music?
I’m originally from Birmingham, Alabama but I currently reside in Stone Mountain, GA. I would describe my style of music as hi-vibrational hood music. (HI-VI) The way I see it is that my music represents another side to the hood. A different kind of flow and melody that still expresses the feelings and vibes of hood music but more on a positive and motivational side.
How did you get here? As in, what inspired or motivated you to take on this journey through music and the music biz?
I always had a thing for music. Growing up I played saxophone and French horn and was surrounded by music. My Friend champ introduce me to rap when I was a jit. Cee-lo green and dungeon family played a big part in that. I also dabbled in playing drums. Music has been instilled in me for as long as I can remember.
As I grew up, I started writing poetry, which later turned into lyrics, not only for my songs but for other artists as well. My passion for music and the grind that comes with it is my motivation to continue going through this music journey. I have consistently been on the music scene networking and promoting my music, considering myself one of the hardest working rappers in the Game.
I’ve literally walked the streets of Atlanta, even to the top of Stone Mountain with digital backpack billboards promoting my music. I’m constantly on the scene networking at different events and performing everywhere from community events, art shows, music showcases, etc.
Through all of this networking I have built relationships that have led me into new spaces with my music. Currently I am making beats which has opened up my skill sets to not only writing, recording, and performing my own music but also developing beats for other artists in the industry. My passion for this lifestyle keep me going, with the love and support of everyone around me who continue to push my music.
How does your latest project compare/contrast with your previous release(s)? Were you setting out to accomplish anything specific, follow a specific theme, or explore different styles of creation?
My latest single Houdini featuring Jabo from Alabama was just us vibing out giving you real in street form. In comparison to other music, it’s all for motivation and a little bragging. Bragging about how I continue to stay on track and stay on your mind.
Name the biggest challenge you faced as a creative during these unprecedented? How did you adapt? How have you kept the creative fires burning during all this?
I’ve always had to adapt in life, so it’s never a problem to make it happen. I just remembered the grind my parents instilled in me and know that no obstacle is too big to be conquered. Being able to keep the fire burning is my specialty. I observe the lay of the land and see where I can fit my creative ways.
What do you stand for?
I.A.M.M – Independent Artists Making Moves
I stand for God!
I stand for independent artist making moves.
I stand for All the people who come from situations like mine and don’t have a voice.
What was the last song you listened to? Does that artist influence you in any way?
The last song I listened to was probably myself or an independent artist I support. They influence me by telling their story and staying true to themselves!
Which do you prefer? Vinyl? 8-tracks? Cassettes? CDs? MP3s? Streaming platforms?
I prefer anything your able to listen to my music on lol. I personally wouldn’t mind having all my music on vinyl though. I just like the nostalgia of them.
I am into sampling off vinyl to create some of my beats… currently I would say vinyl because they have such a raw authentic sound that digital does not compare to. But I also obviously enjoy digital platforms as well.
Everything from Tidal, Apple Music, Deezer, SoundCloud, YouTube and Spotify which I predominantly use to promote my music on playlists.
What does music mean to you?
Music is the story of life so be careful what you feed your brain. If you listen to the wrong thing, you can eventually be down that path.
So, I’m always conscious of what energy I give the people and where I take them.
Where is the best place to connect with you and follow your journey?
You can follow me on all platforms at @kingjaimusic
Link to :
Instagram https://instagram.com/kingjaimusic?igshid=Y2ZmNzg0YzQ=
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/artist/57SGsA1kXL8K7NrmxJD038?si=dYrDbNbcQQOunKInwypphg
YouTube. https://youtu.be/Een22_Xh7ec
YouTube Channel https://youtube.com/channel/UCiBZRrv7fv2-F59Qx3y5Tkg
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/KingJaiMusic
Apple Music https://music.apple.com/us/album/houdini-feat-jabo/1633693714?i=1633693715
Anything else you wish to include, add or say?
Don’t be in a rush to get anywhere.
Take your time and be a master of your craft!
Shout to everybody who believes in me and those who don’t. Love and hate is a part of the game. Hate is only love in reverse.
