As editor and publisher, I receive a staggering amount of pitches for this column everyday. The artists who demonstrate they have remarkable talent and business acumen are going to get my attention. Talent alone is not enough to be successful. It is a business after all. J. Lye has both of the aforementioned qualities, demonstrated by his breakthrough video, “Is She Needing Me?” Get to know him.
How old are you? I’m 20, turning 21 in February.
When did you start performing? I started performing in September of 2010. I had done a few smaller performances before then, but that’s when I started performing under the stage name “J. Lye”
Name some of the artists who have inspired or influenced you? There are many artists that have inspired me. Drake is currently a huge inspiration for me. I think he created a new type of rap, and the stuff he touches on is stuff I feel that I could be rapping myself. Also, in the past, Lil Wayne used to really inspire me. I remember watching interviews of him saying that rapping in the studio was his life, and hitting the clubs was his job. I took that to heart, because I know if given the opportunity, I’d never want to leave the studio.
How would you describe your style? I believe my style is very unique. My music has a lot of variety since I am such a big fan of different types of music. I rap about things that I feel everyone can relate too. There are songs that I release with catchy hooks to keep my fans hyped and entertained, and then there are songs that I pour all my emotions into. That’s why I chose the stage name, J. Lye “Just Live Your Emotions”. Because I really put my heart and soul into every song that I craft.
What separates you from other artists? I would say the versatility of my music as well as my drive. One thing I can guarantee is that no one wants this more than me. Music is my everything, and without it I don’t know what I would be. I believe that that passion shines through my music.
Name some of the major artists you have performed with? I’ve opened for Dipset, Meek Mill, Roscoe Dash, Machine Gun Kelly, Los, Hoodie Allen, Chris Webby, The Dean’s List, & Mike Stud.
Do you have any major offers on the table? At one point I was talking to EMI about working something out, however that fell through. Right now, I am just working on getting my name out there and putting out the best music possible.
What advice would you offer other aspiring artists? I would say to just work. Never let up and grind. That’s what I do so thats all I can offer. My grind is the reason I was lucky enough to even acquire this interview with such a legendary writer. Music is my life and music is what I love, you have to work for what you love, no excuses.
Any shout outs? Shout out to all of Team J. Lye. The Wavy Bunch. The 8B. Every fan and everyone that supports. Ya’ll are what keeps me going. Thank you.
