J.Nolan - New Vision
Hip Hop/Rap
GA, United States
J.Nolan is a Progressive Hip-Hop artist/songwriter based in Atlanta, GA. Since releasing his independent debut "Broken Dreams" in 2010, he's developed tremendously as a forward thinking lyricist, a craftsman both in-studio + live on stage, and as a thought leader in the creative community (via Fresh & Local).
His music has been featured in numerous TV/Film productions such as UFC's Road to The Octagon, DJ Jazzy Jeff's Vinyl Destination, the movie 11:55, The Rookie on ABC, You Me Her via Audience Network (DirecTV Exclusive), Step Up: High Water, and many others
Tell us more about “New Vision”
"New Vision" was created with the year 2020 in mind. We wanted to make something that would motivate people to embrace a new outlook on life and get them amped about good things to come. The record also speaks on music ownership and dedication.
J.Nolan featured on Hot 97’s “Top Shelf Freestyle” show, hosted by Loaded Lux
How are you impacted as a musician during this time?
I’ve been impacted in a few ways. Soon as venues closed due to Covid-19 I had to cancel 2 shows and the monthly showcase that I help curate to develop other independent artists. That instantly took money out of my pocket and shortly after, I received a temporary layoff from my day job. This time has been a little less than ideal for me, but I’ve decided to keep creating new music as well learning new ways to maximize my social media following.
Can you describe your sound in one ramble-on sentence?
Lyrical hip hop over contemporary beats
What's your earliest music-related memory growing up?
Dancing in front of the tv screen at 3 years old to MC Hammer.
Do you write/compose your own songs? Briefly describe your songwriting process.
Yes, I write all of my music. I like to start out with the beat and see if it inspires me to start thinking of words, phrases, and cadences
Does anything in particular inspire you to write? What get's your creative juices flowing?
Life situations, watching the news, different books that I read will inspire me to dig deeper lyrically. Hearing other great music also helps.
What do you like more: Performing live or recording in the studio?
Performing live is the best. I love recording because it does have a very liberating quality, but the stage is where you can literally transform people’s perspectives of the music.
Any embarrassing on stage moments you'd like to share? C’mon, don’t be shy!
I’ve had shows where I’ve almost completely flubbed an entire verse. My most embarrassing was performing with a group of friends and when one of them finished their part, he pitched his mic into the crowd! It caused the whole show to halt for a solid minute where everyone was in awe, but I still had to follow up and finish the show.
What has been a highlight for you in the past year?
My biggest highlight in the past year just happened in January. Being a part of Hot 97’s “Top Shelf Freestyle” show where I was personally chosen by Loaded Lux was big. It was the largest platform that I’ve showcased my talent on thus far and I feel as though it definitely made people start paying real attention to what I’m doing.
If you were to cover another band/artist's song/record, which would you pick and why?
Anything by Tom Misch is great cover music. He makes the type of music that I would do if I wasn’t so honed in on being a lyricist.
What are some artists/bands that you're into at the moment? Or any particular song you find yourself listening to over and over?
Prince Wiser, Jay Atoms, Yons, Ke Turner, DopeNorTeria, Simaya, just so many to name. They’re all unique and have their own styles. Highly recommended.
What do you enjoy doing outside of music? Does your hobby rejuvenate your creativity?
I love cooking and watching new shows on Netflix. Listening to podcasts where I can learn new things about the music business. I personally feel as though everything contributes to my creativity. This furlough away from work has given me more time to actually create without the idea of going to bed or waking up early cutting into my process.
What's one thing people should know about you?
That I’m extremely passionate about what I do. Even if I’m not writing, recording, or performing I’m always involved with music in some way. Whether it’s finding new artists, booking events to spotlight other talent, or just bring a complete spectator - this is really what makes me most happy.
If you had one message to give to your fans, what would it be?
That I really appreciate everyone that’s willing to give their time and energy in exchange for my music. Sometimes we view this as a meritocracy where good work should mean people automatically support, but that’s not always the case. So I’m just grateful that I do have a following and I want to do my best to cultivate relationships with those people.