After establishing himself on the scene with a wealth of rich and shimmering gems these last few years, London-based rapper JRDee is now looking to cement his vibrant legacy to date with the release of his eagerly-awaited debut album 'Walls Of Cocoon'.
Capturing more of that smooth and enigmatic hip-hop aesthetic he has been building for himself over the years, this new eleven-track collection makes for a wonderfully warm and inviting listen. With his killer flow layered across a progressive production from start to finish, 'Walls Of Cocoon' continues his rise as one of the more innovative names doing the rounds right now.
So with the new album available to stream now, we sat down with him to find out more about his origins and what has been inspiring him most over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
This is actually kind of tricky to answer. Off the bat I would say guitar, it’s definitely the instrument for me and I have been playing for over 15 years. But really and truly I always wanted to learn drums first, there was something about it that just drew me.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
I was (still is) a metal fan. When I was younger my favourite bands were the likes of August Burns Red, Parkway Drive, and ERRA. I also got to love old school music because that was commonly what my parents would play and listen to.
What was the first album you remember owning?
Physically owning, that would be August Burns Red’s album Rescue and Restore. I remember pre ordering the CD which came with a cool T-shirt.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
Odd yet interesting question. It’d have to be Kendrick Lamar “Alright” I guess. That is a song that has really had an impact on society as time progressed.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
I try not to “try” and make music. I find I hit writer's block and draw a lot of blanks when I force myself. Generally, you could say my habit is listening to others music that inspires me to try something that can be just as impactful.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
Kendrick Lamar and JID primarily because they have so much content and substance out there (including unreleased songs), and this is stretching over many years. I’m someone who gets bored of music fairly easily so I like finding/hearing new artists. Recently I’ve been listening to a lot of Che Lingo, SiR, Smino, and Knucks.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
JID or Kendrick, I’ll be happy to support either honestly.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
I reckon that’s the moment when you listen back to what you have created at the end of the process, full mix and master. When all the ingredients have come together, you almost don’t believe you were the chef.
And what is the most frustrating part?
Straight after the rewarding part. The realisation that for the piece to be heard you have to do a lot of stuff unrelated to music like marketing and promotion. Otherwise the song will just go unheard. And music really is best enjoyed with others.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
“Just keep making music”. Wise words from a friend.
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JRDee's debut album 'Walls Of A Cocoon' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.