“You can hear a million ‘No’s’ but it only takes one ‘Yes.’
Atlanta transplant J Shaw is an artist who has heard his share of “no’s” over the years but, despite layers of adversity that have come his way, he’s kept his vision alive, always finding a way through.
Shaw’s musical aspirations began when he first heard legendary Tupac Shakur’s “I Get Around.” But, interestingly enough, it was a scene from the film The Great White Hype, featuring none other than Method Man rapping, that truly set the artist on course, inspiring him to not only to perform but to dig into the craft of songwriting as well. And drawing from influences as diverse as LL Cool J, Rakim, DMX, and Eminem, among others, Shaw began to hone his signature style, forming a sound that was all his own.
But the growing artist quickly learned that launching a career in music was tough and money soon became an issue. Making an admittedly poor decision, Shaw took to dealing drugs for a short-lived time but saw through the lies and violence that life foretold and soon left the life in order to work a series of blue collar jobs. And, fully invested in his dream, the single father of two even went to the greatest of extremes, selling his home in order to have a budget to pursue his music full time.
Opportunities to learn soon came along as well, the artist earning the chances to work with a who’s who list of hip-hop stars while interning as a studio engineer. Those he was fortunate enough to work with included Dallas Austin, T.I., Young Jeezy, Usher, and 808 Mafia. But perhaps the most influential contact made there was with Khujo Goodie of Goodie Mob, with whom he would collaborate with to write the track, “Another Day, Another Dollar.”
In full on hip-hop mogul fashion, J Shaw wasn’t content to rest on his laurels, crafting and launching his own groundbreaking music streaming app. Called “Reminizzz,” the app aims to allow listeners to comment and reminisce about the memories spurred on by songs old and new. And while it’s still a work in progress, Shaw sees big things in the future for this endeavor.
And while the diversity of the business intrigues and excites Shaw, he’s still all about the music, seeking to deliver something memorable, positive, and original in a world of hip-hop that’s often known more for conformity.
Speaking to his mission, Shaw shares, “One day I want my music to be known across the world and known as an artist who contributed to hip-hop culture in a positive way. When fans reflect on my career, I want them to remember me as an artist who brought authenticity and truth to his craft. I would like to be known as a lyricist with music that inspires and uplifts anyone going through trials and tribulations.”
To accomplish that task, Shaw is set on bringing his fans along with him for the process, doing his best to constantly give them behind the scene looks and to interact with them as much as possible, allowing their excitement and enthusiasm to become his, channeling that passion into his live shows and recordings. And as he pursues his dreams of becoming one of the greatest MC’s ever, he hopes to be a flame of inspiration to his fans, inviting them to pursue their dreams and to truly live life to the fullest.