We switched it up this week changing from our regular indie and Brit pop bands for the 9th Episode of Upcoming to interview with Rapper Jimmy Curtin. Originally From Lewisham , 17 year old artist Jimmy has always loved music and has a passion for creating art. He said “ I have many ideas I haven’t displayed yet along with a growing maturity and knowledge of the music world. I would love for everyone to follow me on my journey to become a star in the industry.”
What started your love for music?
Music has been a big part of my life since the start. My parents are performers and brought me up listening to music extensively. I remember listening to the Jackson 5 and Stevie Wonder a lot as a child. Since then I’ve not remembered a day where I haven’t thought about music.
How did you get in to creating rap music?
I started free styling over You Tube beats in my room and writing random lyrics in my notes. After a while I picked a beat and wrote a song, recorded it on Apple headphones and have never looked back since.
My first song was called ‘GOLD’. I made it almost a year ago now and it’s crazy listening to it and seeing how far I’ve come.
You talked about listening to Stevie Wonder when you were younger, who were your biggest influences in the industry?
My biggest influence is Kanye West. He has inspired me to believe in myself and follow my heart when creating art. My songs such as ‘MAKE MY MARK’ and ‘Without You’ are directly influenced by Ye.
I also take much inspiration from artist such as Loyle Carner, Mac Miller, Tyler the Creator and Kendrick Lamar.
I was also inspired by myself. My own immense determination and drive towards my dream is what motivates me everyday to carry on working.
How do you approach the creative process when writing and producing your music?
I always like to make music when I feel creative; as I feel when I try force myself to make a song, it’s come out unnatural.
My writing process usually starts with a freestyle to try find flows and melodies.
I always try to create concepts for my songs so my music has more depth and authenticity.
I also endlessly write down lyrics in my notes whenever I think of them. I do this to keep track of my ideas to ensure I don’t forget them later on.
Similar to lyrics, I also record short videos of me humming melodies stuck in my head so I can go back to them when producing.
What do you think sets your music apart from other rappers in the industry?
I try to keep my music authentic to me and my character. I purposely write my verses to reflect how I am as a person. I have lyrics that are confident, reflective and charming. But I also have lyrics that show insecurity, vulnerability and weakness. This helps me show my true layered self within my sonics. I believe my charisma and taste for good music sets me aside from others.
Out of all yours songs what is your favourite single / song and what is it about?
My favourite song of mine is an unreleased song called ‘TWISTED’. It’s a song with fellow collaborator Oracle and features vocals from my dad. The song is a sample hip hop beat with lyrics about insecurities and ego.
You have just released the announcement for your new song ‘Without You’ what is itabout?
My new single ‘Without You’ is coming out 7th of June 2024. The song is written about my girlfriend to show my appreciation for her. She is amazing and deserves a whole album dedicated to her. I haven’t got to that quite yet, but soon come. The cover art is a picture of my grandparents who have passed away. I like imagine this song like my grandfather is showing love to my grandmother in their rest.
Besides the new single , Can you share any upcoming projects or collaborations that your fans can look forward to?
A single with Oracle called ‘Self Titled’. Also an EP titled ‘Sonic Thoughts’ and many more collaborations with KIDCOLD, Yiks and Oracle.
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Thanks so much to Jimmy for joining us for an interview this week. If you haven’t already hit subscribe for all the latest updates.
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