Written & Interviewed by GK
Photographed by GK
JXMESC is one of the most talented wordsmiths in the UK music scene right now. His introspective approach to lyricism is a refreshing take, and his steady growth is slowly cementing his name as a kingpin of the underground.
With recent singles ‘CPR’, and 'meera', JXMESC has built a reputation for laid back, reflective rap over Alchemist inspired production. These sonics are often partnered with film quality visuals, notably the ‘scars’ music video inspired by French classic La Haine.
Marking the release of his 6 track EP 'RAINDANCE', we are taking a deep dive in to the thoughts and inspirations of JXMESC in our exclusive interview.
GK: Thank you for joining us bro. First of all I wanna talk about the foundations of your music. Why did you start making music?
JXMESC: I grew up around music, I played piano and guitar when I was younger. I always had music around me; at home, in the car - it felt inevitable that I was gonna do something with music. Back in year 6 when we were asked what we want to do in the future I wrote down that I wanted to be a music artist.
Which artists have had the biggest influence on your sound?
It’s so hard to say.. In terms of the way I use lyrics I’d probably say most of my influence comes from UK rap, but sonically, I think it’s more of an American sound. The kind of production that I’m striving for is people like J Dilla and The Alchemist.
I can see that. You mentioned on our shoot that you studied English literature at uni. Which writers have influenced you and your lyrics the most?
I have looked at a lot of different writers. In terms of poetry, I’d say James Baldwin was a big inspiration for me.
Your EP, ‘So Far So Good’ is inspired by French film La Haine. Is film a common inspiration for your music? Which films or shows have influenced you the most?
Yeah, for me there’s definitely a big connection between film and music. I’d have to say Breaking Bad! It’s the cinematography, the shots… they give me ideas. It’s not necessarily that I think of sounds when I’m watching it, but, ah man it’s just inspiring! The way it’s shot is crazy, I’d like to do a music video inspired by that in the future.
Now, moving away from your inspirations, how do you feel about the current UK music scene? What do you like and dislike?
It’s inspiring when you see people your age who are doing things, there are lots of very talented creatives in the UK music space. But what I don’t like about the scene is when I see someone who is tryna be someone else. Sometimes people follow a certain template because they see that it can be successful, but you’re supposed to be doing your own thing.
Which UK artist would you most like to collaborate with?
In the future I could see myself working with someone like James Blake. I think my sound will have developed by then to something more alternative.
Do you struggle as an independent artist? What are the hardest things about being independent?
Its difficult having to do everything yourself but its also rewarding to be able to make a plan (vision) and see it come to life. It’s an industry about who you know, if you’re independent you can’t be cut off from people, you have to be in spaces where you will meet and network with artists.
For sure. How do you feel about the business aspect of music?
It’s difficult, because for me personally, the creative process takes a long time. Some artists drop one single every 6 months but are competing with people who are dropping 4 times that. Everything moves so fast - sometimes there is a pressure to keep up with other people. I’m not very good at selling myself but I’m getting better at that aspect. I think that starts with being more consistent with my music and going from there.
Yeah definitely. I think, like with anything, It’s important to find the right balance. You have to invest time into your craft to ensure you create authentic, quality art, but it is also important to have a consistent output to keep your audience engaged. Sometimes it is easy to slip into the pattern of churning out content but losing the meaning behind it.
The thing is, a lot of people don’t even care about ‘meaning’. A lot of people find ‘deep’ music annoying, they’d rather listen to something lighthearted or upbeat. I think its important for music to not always be serious. But for me personally, I like people that show vulnerability in their music. It’s a lot harder to show that than put up a front. Sometimes I slip into saying things that I think people wanna hear rather than how I’m actually feeling.
Finally... what’s next for JXMESC?
More music. At the moment I’m taking everything a step at a time so my focus now is just to make more music.
RAINDANCE by JXMESC has just dropped. Check it out.
Comments