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Glancy Kelly

A Self-Taught Star Redefining the Music Industry

Glancy Kelly’s musical journey is one of resilience, self-discovery, and a relentless pursuit of his dreams. Growing up amidst harsh realities, music became his sanctuary—a means to escape and express himself. Reflecting on his early years, Kelly shares, “Going through the harsh realities as a kid growing up trying to escape reality made me turn to music.” This deep connection to music laid the foundation for a career that would later inspire many.

One pivotal moment in his journey came during his experience on American Idol. While the competition didn’t lead to televised stardom, it was a defining experience for Kelly. “I remember getting up at 3 am to stand in a long line just to have the opportunity to sing in front of the judges,” he recalls. “I tried to learn a pop song by Justin Bieber called ‘That Should Be Me’ the night before the auditions, only to forget the words mid-song.” That moment of vulnerability fueled his determination to take charge of his career in a different way—as a recording artist.

Kelly’s independent spirit also shines in his approach to musical development. Teaching himself to sing and play instruments, he embraced his individuality. “I knew I could rap and always felt like I was more than just a shower singer like 95% of the world,” he shares. “It was just trying to be different than everybody in my city, Port Arthur, TX, at the time.” This drive to stand out and innovate has become a hallmark of his artistry.

Creative Process: Crafting Authentic and Relatable Music

Glancy Kelly’s music is known for breaking conventional molds, and his creative process reflects this originality. Starting with a melody, he records himself creating wordless tunes before returning to add lyrics. “Everything starts off with a melody,” he explains. “I actually record myself creating melodies with no words, then come back later and add words to it.”

Balancing personal storytelling with relatability is another cornerstone of Kelly’s music. “I feel like people always want to hear someone’s testimony because most people go through the same things in life,” he says. “Let’s be real—we all can relate at some point when it comes to love or baby-making music.”

Kelly’s love for instruments, particularly the drums, further influences his sound. “I grew up playing drums in church and was even in the marching band in high school,” he shares. “I always played by ear.” His deep connection to rhythm and melody adds a unique layer to his music, making it both heartfelt and memorable.

"Now or Never" Album: A Milestone Project

Kelly’s debut album, Now or Never, remains a significant milestone in his career. Though the project is nearly a decade old, it showcases his versatility and willingness to push boundaries. “Now or Neverwas one of those projects where I tried to be different again—making pop, soulful music and showing the world my versatility,” he explains.

The album’s opening track, “My Life,” serves as an introduction to Kelly’s story and the challenges he’s overcome. “I hope they understand what I went through as a kid on the opening record,” he shares. “It basically introduces myself to them and who I am.”

While Now or Never holds a special place in his heart, Kelly’s musical evolution continues with his latest album, C’est La Vie. His journey is one of growth, constantly exploring new sounds and styles to connect with his audience.

Industry and Growth: Rising Through Challenges

Glancy Kelly’s talent has not gone unnoticed. Receiving feedback from industry legends like Babyface and top A&R executives such as Andrew Grant from Capitol Records has been both surprising and rewarding. “It feels good to know you’re on your way,” he says.

Standing out in the competitive music industry comes with its challenges, but Kelly’s faith and perseverance keep him grounded. “I stay prayed up because, at the end of the day, what’s for you is for you,” he shares. Social media and platforms like Soundcloud have also played a crucial role in growing his fanbase. “Social media is a gift, and I’m grateful to have that advantage in today’s music scene. It makes it so easy to reach and gain new fans.”

Personal Insights: Lessons and Motivation

As a self-taught artist, Kelly’s journey offers valuable lessons for aspiring musicians. His advice? “Keep going and never let anybody’s ‘No’ affect you.” His motivation stems from an internal drive and a refusal to give up. “I have that hunger inside of me, always telling me to keep making music and keep dropping. I have that ‘I won’t give up’ spirit.”

For Kelly, success is about more than accolades—it’s about legacy. “Being able to look back at all the accomplishments—being on B.E.T., topping the R&B charts twice, and doing it all as an independent artist—means everything,” he reflects. “Success means still being able to make music and do whatever I want while raising kids. My kids help me stay focused on the mission. It’s bigger than me now.”

Fan Engagement: Building Connections

Glancy Kelly’s dedication to his fans is evident in his live performances and personal interactions. “Fans can expect a great show or an amazing project,” he says. “I try my best to give my all.” Whether through direct messages or meet-and-greets, Kelly values connecting with his audience both online and offline.

When it comes to supporting his journey, Kelly encourages fans to spread the word and stream his music. “Spreading the word and streaming is the best way,” he says, emphasizing the importance of fan-driven support in today’s music industry.

Glancy Kelly’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and unwavering determination. As he continues to evolve as an artist, his journey serves as an inspiration to fans and aspiring musicians alike.

Glancy Kelly Gallery

    Kgrindz

    From Hustler to Rising Star in the UK Rap Scene

    For Kgrindz, the journey into music was sparked by a mix of ambition, inspiration, and resilience. Growing up in Highbury Islington, North London, his first glimpse of success came from seeing older guys in the neighborhood flaunting Rolexes and driving BMWs. But his real turning point came when he watched the iconic film Get Rich or Die Tryin’ by 50 Cent. “After I watched that, something in me clicked,” Kgrindz recalls. “My whole life started changing. I started rapping and hustling from the age of 13.”

    The Turning Point: From Jail to GRM Daily

    In 2019, Kgrindz met Bgody, a member of the Zone 2 drill group, while serving time in Wormwood Scrubs. What started as a chance meeting turned into a life-changing opportunity. “When we both got out of jail, we linked up and made the song TRAP,” Kgrindz explains. At the time, he had no plans to return to music, focusing instead on hustling. But when Bgody offered him the feature, he saw potential and seized the opportunity. The decision paid off, as TRAPwent on to amass over 100,000 streams, marking Kgrindz’s official return to the music scene.

    Hungry for More

    The success of TRAP fueled Kgrindz’s hunger for more. Receiving his first plaque for his 2022 release Still Trappin’on LinkUpTV was a pivotal moment. “It felt like it was slowly paying off,” he shares. “After achieving a goal, I’d want to achieve another straight after.”

    In 2023, Kgrindz collaborated with Q2T, a rising star from Ice City Boyz, on the track Brick Boyz. This release solidified his position in the UK rap industry. “When I made Brick Boyz with Q2T, that’s when I felt like an official rapper in the UK music industry,” he says. “Q2T being a protégé of Nines and Skrapz made it a big moment for me.”

    Milestones and Manifestation

    Kgrindz’s career has been marked by milestones that reflect his growth as an artist. A feature with S Wavey, one of the pioneers of the UK drill scene, was a personal achievement for Kgrindz. “I used to listen to him when I was younger, so it was another good milestone for me,” he says.

    His most recent and biggest milestone to date came in 2025 when UK rap legend Sneakbo reached out for a collaboration. Their hit single So Much has cemented Kgrindz’s status as a force in the independent UK rap scene. “When Sneakbo hit me up for a feature, I was quite shocked,” he admits. “He’s a household name in the UK. Everybody who loves music knows Sneakbo.”

    The Future of Kgrindz

    Looking ahead, Kgrindz is focused on building financial success and collaborating with even bigger names in the music industry. “The future holds a lot of success,” he says confidently. “I have more features loading with bigger names. I’m just slowly manifesting the vision.”

    From hustling on the streets of North London to making waves in the UK rap scene, Kgrindz’s journey is a testament to resilience, ambition, and the power of seizing opportunities. With his hunger for success and a growing list of achievements, Kgrindz is undoubtedly a name to watch in the world of independent UK rap.

    Kgrindz Gallery

      Jase Ace

      Beats, Battles, and Breakthroughs: The Rise of Jase Ace

      Early Beginnings: A Musical Foundation in Family and Culture
      Jase Ace’s love for music began at a young age, deeply rooted in the vibrant sounds of his family’s home. Growing up in Los Angeles and Inglewood, California, music was the heartbeat of family gatherings, whether it was weekend barbecues or cleaning sessions. His parents filled the air with the soulful tunes of Rufus and Chaka Khan, Earth, Wind & Fire, and Patrice Rushen, alongside legends like Fleetwood Mac, Elton John, and Johnny Mathis. These early influences planted the seeds for his diverse musical taste, which would later define his unique sound.

      When his family moved to Norfolk, Virginia, Jase’s father pursued a career as a commercial actor and performer, singing in local TV commercials and starring in off-Broadway productions like Jesus Christ Superstar. At just five years old, Jase watched his father rehearse and perform in front of massive audiences. “I was so proud to see him up there,” Jase recalls. Inspired by his father’s passion, he began playing on a set of conga drums gifted by his dad, marking the start of his own musical journey.

      Returning to Los Angeles during his teenage years further expanded Jase’s musical palette. Days spent at the beach were accompanied by the sounds of Quincy Jones, Lonnie Liston Smith, and Herbie Hancock, shaping his appreciation for instrumental brilliance and musical storytelling. These moments, filled with the melodies of jazz and funk greats, became a guiding force in his creative evolution.

      The Power of Instruments: Conga Drums and Childhood Creativity
      Jase’s connection to music deepened when his parents gifted him instruments that would become the foundation of his early exploration. Alongside the conga drums from his father, his mother surprised him with a Disney drum set for Christmas. These gifts sparked his creativity and inspired him to form a childhood band with his neighborhood friends, Jason Brooks and Vernell Williams, affectionately known as Pumpkin. “We called ourselves The Golden Kings,” Jase shares, reminiscing about the group’s name, which was inspired by his love for Earth, Wind & Fire.

      Even as an eight-year-old, Jase exhibited a natural talent for songwriting and performance. He and his friends wrote and performed songs like “Dick Dock Derby Dock” and “Since You Been Gone” (long before Kelly Clarkson’s hit of the same name). Reflecting on those moments, Jase marvels at how young they were to be so invested in music. “Looking back, I’m amazed at how interested we were in singing and writing songs. It was pure joy and creativity,” he says.

      Drumming at Church: Lessons in Rhythm and Discipline
      At 11 years old, Jase began playing drums for his church, Citizens of Zion, a pivotal moment in his musical journey. This experience was transformative, as he worked alongside seasoned musicians who taught him the importance of staying on beat, using cymbals, and mastering the hi-hat. “They showed me how to stay in the pocket,” he explains, a skill that became crucial in his later career as a producer and performer.

      But Jase’s curiosity didn’t stop at the drums. Before and after choir practices, he would experiment with the piano, sparking an interest in melody and harmony. His choir director noticed his enthusiasm and recommended piano lessons, which his mother eagerly signed him up for. Though his formal lessons were short-lived, they left a lasting impression, sparking a lifelong love for playing and producing music.

      Choir Experiences: Building Confidence and Skill
      Jase’s vocal talents were recognized early on by Dr. Cleaver, the director of the Compton Boys Choir. Each year, Dr. Cleaver visited Tibby Elementary School to audition boys, and Jase consistently earned a coveted spot. Performing on Channel 28’s Christmas program and at schools across Los Angeles, Jase gained confidence in his singing abilities. “It was exciting and fun—we felt like celebrities,” he recalls.

      His involvement with the choir also opened doors to the school’s glee club, where he honed his breath control, stage presence, and ability to connect with an audience. “These experiences helped me overcome my shyness,” Jase says. “They laid the groundwork for my future as a performer and gave me the belief that I could carry a note and captivate a crowd.”

      Rap Battles and Early Hip-Hop: Discovering His Voice
      In middle school, Jase met Theron, a kindred spirit who shared his love for rap and hip-hop. Together, they formed the rap duo T&J 100 Proof, inspired by their names (Jase Ace and To-A-T) and their belief in their strength as performers. Influenced by groups like KRS-One and Public Enemy, the pair immersed themselves in rap battles and contests, testing their skills against other MCs.

      One memorable performance in Pasadena led to an offer to record a demo and a potential record deal. “We recorded a song called ‘Down Boy,’ and the organizers offered us a deal,” Jase recalls. However, their parents felt they were too young to sign a contract, and the duo moved on.

      High school brought even more opportunities to battle and collaborate. Jase and Theron, along with a new member, Dazzy D, would battle at schools, malls, and even the legendary VIP Records store in Long Beach. “Battling became a confidence builder for me,” Jase shares. “It taught me that it’s okay to feel like you’re the best and believe in your ability to rock a crowd.”

      Opening Acts and Industry Insights: T&J 100 Proof’s Big Breaks
      T&J’s journey took a significant turn when they opened for Young MC at World on Wheels, thanks to Jase’s uncle Kevin, an ad executive at KJLH. Performing in front of a packed crowd, including their families, solidified Jase’s belief in his potential. “It made me feel like the music industry was for me,” he says.

      Their next big opportunity came through MC Soula, whom Jase connected with through a mutual friend. As dancers for Soula, T&J toured with the Black Women in Rap Tour, opening for legends like Queen Latifah, MC Lyte, and Yo-Yo. Soula’s single, “Soul Sista,” directed by Forrest Whitaker, was in heavy rotation on MTV, BET, and VH1, giving Jase a firsthand look at the industry’s inner workings.

      Producing for Brou’ Ha-Ha and SOULA: A New Chapter
      As Jase transitioned into producing, he found joy in exploring sampling, programming beats, and playing chords. Producing for his group Brou’ Ha-Ha and Soula allowed him to experiment with different genres and refine his skills. “It taught me how to dig through crates of records and find cool snippets to sample,” he explains, a process that expanded his musical knowledge and creativity.

      A Legacy of Passion and Perseverance
      From childhood drum sessions to rap battles and producing for industry icons, Jase Ace’s journey is a testament to his unwavering passion for music. His experiences have shaped not only his sound but also his mission to inspire others through his art.

      As Jase continues to create and release music that blends smooth jazz, hip-hop, funk, and R&B, he carries with him a legacy of resilience, creativity, and a deep love for his craft. For Jase, music isn’t just a career—it’s the soundtrack to life, filled with lessons, memories, and the promise of greatness.

      Stay tuned for more from Jase Ace as he releases his catalog of over 200 songs, each one a piece of his incredible story.

      Jase Ace Gallery

        Versatile313

        The Rise of Versatile313: A Journey Rooted in Passion and Purpose

        Detroit, Michigan, has long been a city synonymous with musical greatness, and emerging from its vibrant streets is a dynamic artist whose story is as compelling as his sound. Meet Versatile313, the Hip Hop and R&B artist whose journey began in a home filled with talent and creativity. From early inspirations to groundbreaking performances, Vers’ story is one of dedication, resilience, and artistry.

        A Family of Influences

        For Vers, music wasn’t just a hobby; it was a way of life. Growing up in a family where talent was abundant, he was surrounded by the sounds of gospel, 80s, 90s, and 2000s R&B, as well as Hip Hop classics. His parents were instrumental in shaping his musical foundation. His mother, with her gift of singing, and his father, known as “Drama,” a Christian rapper from the group Higher Order, provided the blueprint for what it meant to be an artist.

        “My father’s career showed me what it looked like to be dedicated to a craft,” Vers recalls. Spending hours in the studio with his father, witnessing the transformation of hard work into polished songs, left a lasting impression. Though he didn’t fully realize his passion at the time, those moments planted the seeds of his future as a recording artist.

        Vers’ siblings also played a role in his musical upbringing. Exposed to a variety of music at home, he gravitated toward artists like Michael Jackson, Neyo, Chris Brown, and Kanye West. Later, he found inspiration in legends like Usher, Big Sean, Royce Da 5’9, Kendrick Lamar, and J Cole. “When I saw Michael do the moonwalk, I felt like I wanted to be like him,” he says. Their showmanship, energy, and skill became the benchmarks for his own artistry.

        Discovering His Calling

        Vers’ journey into music began at a young age. By 8 years old, he was already captivating family members with his singing and Michael Jackson-inspired dance routines. However, it was during middle school that he truly began to shine. In science class, an assignment to create a song, poem, or rap sparked his creativity. His teacher, Ms. Washington, introduced “Lyrical Lessons,” allowing students to turn classroom lessons into art. Vers thrived in these moments, earning recognition from his peers and solidifying his passion for music.

        “I realized music was my calling the moment I started getting recognition from my family and peers,” he shares. These early experiences laid the foundation for a journey that would take him to unimaginable heights.

        The Birth of Versatile313

        In 2015, during his junior year at Cass Technical High School, Vers took a significant step toward his dream. The high school, known for its rich history of producing talent, became a pivotal part of his journey. That same year, Hip Hop artist Big Sean returned to Cass Tech to establish the “Studio of Infinite Possibilities,” a space dedicated to nurturing young artists. Vers was among the first students to participate in the program, which provided him with the tools and structure to hone his craft.

        “My experience at Cass Tech shaped my growth as an artist through providing me with structure around my gifts,” Vers explains. In concert choir, he learned music theory, piano, and vocal techniques. The Studio of Infinite Possibilities allowed him to explore his creativity on his own terms, creating songs and collaborating with others. It was here that the artist known as Versatile313 was born.

        Memorable Performances and Achievements

        Since then, Vers has built an impressive resume, performing in spaces that many artists only dream of. From the Hot 107.5 Friday Night Cypher to Kanye West’s Sunday Service, his performances have left lasting impressions. However, it was the Friday Night Cypher that stood out the most.

        “It was in those moments that I spent a considerable amount of time honing my skills and style as a rapper while building connections with other rappers,” he shares. The camaraderie among the elite group of participants, known as “The Core,” created a brotherhood that continues to inspire him.

        In 2019, Vers won the Soul Award at the Motown Amplify Singing Competition, a recognition that validated his talent and hard work. “That recognition solidified to me that I actually am a good performer,” he says. Despite battling a cold that day, he delivered a performance that left the audience in awe.

        The Next Chapter: “Holding On” and Beyond

        Currently, Vers is working on his first EP, titled “re-Vision.”His latest single, “Holding On,” serves as a prelude to the project. The introspective track reflects his journey of self-discovery and the growing pains of stepping into adulthood. “What I hope listeners take away from it is… don’t be afraid to ask those questions about yourself and find the answers,” he says.

        The EP promises to be a deeply personal project, offering fans a glimpse into the experiences that have shaped him. “For the most part, it is meant to be centered around me talking about some experiences that have made me who I am,” he reveals.

        A Vision for the Future

        Looking ahead, Vers has big dreams. His ultimate goal is to inspire others to explore their creativity and uplift them through his art. In the next five years, he envisions himself touring, releasing critically acclaimed albums, and connecting with audiences worldwide.

        Detroit’s rich musical history has shaped his identity as an artist, instilling in him a resilience and determination to succeed. “Growing up in the city has made me appreciate my uniqueness as an artist and has tested my ability to have thicker skin,” he reflects.

        For Versatile313, the journey is just beginning. With a passion for storytelling, a dedication to his craft, and a vision for the future, he is poised to leave an indelible mark on the world of music.

        Versatile313 Gallery

          ZaZa Bri

          A Fearless Voice Rooted in Truth, Pain, and Power

          In the vibrant world of music, where authenticity often battles with conformity, ZaZa Bri stands as a fearless creative force whose art is deeply rooted in truth, pain, and power. Born on July 13, 1996, in Cary, North Carolina, ZaZa Bri’s journey as a Ghanaian-American recording artist and audio engineer has been anything but ordinary. Her story is one of resilience, identity, and a relentless pursuit of self-expression.

          Growing Up Between Two Worlds

          Being Ghanaian-American, ZaZa Bri experienced the unique tension of living between two cultural worlds. “My culture, rich in rhythm, story, and strength, pulses through every lyric and sound,” she shares. For ZaZa, her heritage isn’t just a backdrop—it’s the foundation of her art. Her father, a chief in Asante, instilled in her the belief that their people are powerful. “He taught me to fight for my voice, stay true to who I am, and never shrink to fit someone else’s mold,” she recalls. This legacy of strength and pride has been a guiding light in her journey, reminding her that art is not just an expression—it’s a testament to her roots.

          Turning Pain into Purpose

          ZaZa Bri’s path hasn’t been without challenges. She faced racism not only from the outside world but also within her own family, an experience that left her grappling with rejection and identity. “Racism taught me early on that identity isn’t inherited—it’s something you fight for,” she explains. These experiences of prejudice, both external and internal, became fuel for her artistry. Through her music, she creates space for those who feel unseen, using her platform to speak hard truths.

          For ZaZa, music became a sanctuary. “At school and at home, there was no escape—it felt like a constant cloud following me. But when I picked up a guitar or put on my headphones, I entered a world where I could finally release my feelings without judgment,” she says. This raw vulnerability is what makes her music resonate so deeply with her audience.

          Embracing Her Ghanaian Roots

          ZaZa Bri’s journey to embracing her Ghanaian heritage has been both rebellious and healing. “One side of my family wanted me to erase my roots; the other didn’t fully claim me,” she shares. But through her music, storytelling, and even her fashion, she celebrates her heritage unapologetically. “In the short time I knew my father, he showed me how deeply Ghanaians love music—how it’s freedom, joy, and expression without fear,” she says. For ZaZa, embracing her roots loudly is not only a personal act of defiance but also a beacon of pride for anyone who has ever been told to shrink to belong.

          A Distinct and Cinematic Sound

          ZaZa Bri’s music is a genre-bending experience that blends soulful vocals, raw rap, and cinematic soundscapes. “I’ve always approached music like filmmaking—each song is a scene, each project a world,” she explains. Influenced by artists like Kanye West, Boyz II Men, Queen, The Beatles, and Travis Scott, ZaZa has crafted a sound that is both familiar and groundbreaking. “I let emotion lead, not genre,” she says, a philosophy that allows her to create music that is raw, layered, and deeply immersive.

          Her role as an audio engineer further amplifies her creative control. ZaZa mixes and masters her own tracks, ensuring that every texture and transition aligns with her vision. “Being hands-on means I don’t have to compromise. It makes the final product more honest, more intentional, and fully mine,” she shares.

          Channeling Truth, Pain, and Power

          ZaZa Bri’s music is a canvas for her emotions. “I write from the raw—truth, pain, power—they’re the colors I paint with,” she says. Her songwriting process is deeply personal, yet universally relatable. She also collaborates with producers from around the world, seeking beats that evoke emotion and inspire storytelling. “I choose beats that speak before I do—sounds that feel like home or like unfamiliar places I need to explore,” she explains.

          Overcoming Challenges and Finding Triumph

          ZaZa Bri’s journey has been marked by significant challenges, from silencing self-doubt to navigating spaces where she felt like “too much and not enough.” Losing her parents was a profound turning point, but it also became a source of strength. “Every obstacle carved depth into my voice and purpose into my path,” she reflects.

          One pivotal moment in her career came in 2016 when the Art Institute of Hollywood informed her that there weren’t enough donations for her to attend. “They told me something I’ll never forget: with what I already had, I didn’t need school—I could teach myself,” she recalls. That moment ignited a fire within her to prove the doubters wrong. She immersed herself in learning music production, spending countless hours mastering her craft. “Letting go of fear was the key to finding my fire,” she says.

          A Legacy of Honesty and Expansion

          ZaZa Bri’s music carries a powerful message: “You’re not alone. Your story, your scars, your soul are worthy of being heard.” As a proud African breaking barriers, she hopes to leave a legacy of honesty and expansion. “I want to show that a Ghanaian-American artist can be genreless, boundless, and deeply rooted,” she says. Her mission is to break molds and build bridges, leading with emotion and truth as her strengths.

          What’s Next for ZaZa Bri

          Looking ahead, ZaZa Bri is crafting bold new projects that push the boundaries of sound and story. “Expect the unexpected—but always expect it to be real,” she teases. With her fearless creative force and unwavering authenticity, ZaZa Bri is not just making music—she’s creating a movement.

          ZaZa Bri’s journey is a testament to the power of embracing one’s roots, confronting challenges head-on, and staying true to one’s voice. Her music is a celebration of identity, resilience, and the beauty of being unapologetically yourself.

          ZaZa Bri Gallery

            BJ Klassic

            A Journey Rooted in Passion and Resilience

            Personal Background

            Growing up in Lagos, BJ Klassic’s life was shaped by unique challenges and experiences. As the only son of his father, he lived with his uncle's family after his parents parted ways. Living away from his siblings, whom he only saw during holidays and festive seasons, BJ Klassic found solace in music and self-expression. "Being alone doesn’t mean you’re lonely," he reflects. "I loved being by myself, composing new songs and immersing myself in creativity."

            His music journey began during his high school days in the art department of Orishigun High School, where he and his classmates bonded over their shared love for music. They would buy lyric books of popular Nigerian artists like Plantashun Boiz, Remedies, Azadus, and Maintain, singing their songs in the classroom. This camaraderie and passion laid the foundation for his future in music.

            Despite a lack of support from his father’s side of the family, BJ Klassic found an unexpected champion in his maternal uncle’s wife. When asked about his aspirations after high school, he confidently declared his desire to study music. Without hesitation, she enrolled him in a music school and paid for his diploma. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of his formal education in music, which has since shaped his career.

            Educational and Early Life

            Initially, BJ Klassic believed music was simply about composing songs, booking studio sessions, and recording tracks. However, his education at Lagos State Music School opened his eyes to the depth and complexity of the art form. "Music education has influenced my career immensely. As an artist, I can now play instruments and understand musical terms," he shares.

            A defining moment in his early life came during his final year at Orishigun High School. After completing their WAEC and NECO exams, a teacher invited BJ Klassic and his classmates to perform a song on the assembly ground. The overwhelming cheers from the crowd as he stepped forward with the mic solidified his passion for music. "I couldn’t even hear myself over the noise," he recalls. "That day, I knew music was my calling."

            Music Career

            BJ Klassic’s afrocentric and versatile style is a blend of English, vernacular, and his native Yoruba dialect. This unique fusion allows him to connect with a diverse audience and deliver powerful messages through his music. "I’ve been singing for a long time, turning my life experiences and the state of my country into lyrics," he says.

            His song "Street" was inspired by the struggles of artists he encountered on the streets—homeless individuals and dropouts who clung to their talent as their only hope. "I put myself in their shoes and wrote lyrics that shared their pain," he explains.

            BJ Klassic cites legendary artists like 2Face Idibia, the late Sound Sultan, Faze, Asa, R. Kelly, and D’Banj as his biggest influences. Their music has shaped his sound, particularly in terms of composition and delivery. Through his own music, BJ Klassic aims to inspire hope, belief, and determination. "Your destiny is in your hands," he emphasizes.

            Lifestyle and Interests

            Beyond music, BJ Klassic has a love for basketball, a sport that has inspired him in unexpected ways. "Playing basketball with friends, with music blasting from a Bluetooth speaker, felt like performing on stage," he shares. "It boosted our energy and even inspired freestyles while waiting for our turn to play."

            When it comes to food, BJ Klassic has a special love for noodles, prepared with smoked fish and boiled egg. "The fish has to be the round, smoked type sold by the Egun," he says with a smile.

            Future Goals

            Looking ahead, BJ Klassic envisions himself as a legendary musician, an icon, and a role model. He is currently working on an EP and hopes to collaborate with a competent record label. As for his dream performance destination? "America—the God’s own country," he says with excitement.

            Fun and Personal Touch

            When asked to describe himself, BJ Klassic keeps it simple: "I’m classic, I’m simple, I’m gentle." His philosophy? "There’s nothing hidden under the sun."

            Clipreel

            An Exclusive Insight into the Journey of a Rising Star: Clipreel

            Childhood in Camelot: The Foundation of a Dream

            Growing up in Camelot was a blend of family, friends, and cultural influences. Football, outdoor adventures, and time spent with loved ones were the essence of childhood. Watching BET and dancing to hits like "Lean Wit It, Rock Wit It" by Dem Franchize Boyz defined the era. The culture of staying updated with the latest dance moves and music shaped a love for entertainment early on.

            From Collegiate Football to Music: A Competitive Spirit

            Being a collegiate football player instilled a strong work ethic and a competitive mindset for Clipreel. The mantra of "COMPETE" echoed through practices, games, and even daily routines. This same drive now fuels his music career, where standing out among millions of creators requires a relentless spirit. Staying fit and delivering the best performance remain top priorities.

            The Turning Point: Discovering a Calling Through Film

            The realization of music and entertainment as a true calling came with the creation of the short film, Blind. This project became the catalyst for Clipreel to embrace the entertainment industry wholeheartedly.

            Educational Foundations: Old Dominion University and Full Sail University

            Experiences at Old Dominion University’s WODU community and Full Sail University laid the groundwork for Clipreel’s career in entertainment. From networking to mastering project management and entertainment law, these institutions provided the tools to navigate the industry efficiently while maintaining a sharp focus on creativity and budget management.

            Resilience Through Challenges: Lessons from Academic Probation

            Overcoming academic probation taught Clipreel the importance of focus and adaptability. Writing songs and scripts during challenging times became a form of therapy and a source of hope. This resilience continues to drive his creativity and ambition.

            Artistic Evolution: Poetry to Lyrics

            Transitioning from poetry to songwriting was a journey of adapting to structured beats while maintaining authenticity. Advanced poetry classes expanded Clipreel’s perspectives, influencing a free-flowing yet focused approach to storytelling in music.

            Family Influence: Roots in Rhythm and Beats

            Family played a pivotal role in shaping Clipreel’s musical skills. From learning drum rudiments with a brother to observing cousins in the band, the influence was profound. "Spur of the moment" beat sessions with family members, often fueled by Krispy Kreme runs, remain a cherished source of inspiration.

            Facing Challenges: Tuning Out the Noise

            Dealing with criticism and differing opinions has been a challenge. Clipreel’s solution? Respecting opinions but staying focused on the work. The mantra is simple: "The work doesn’t stop."

            Staying Motivated: Finding Balance in Tough Times

            Sports, movies, instrumentals, and even coloring with kids provide a creative escape. Rest, proper nutrition, and moments at the beach help Clipreel maintain balance during tough times.

            Resilience and Success: The Key to Growth

            Resilience has been the backbone of Clipreel’s success, enabling him to persevere through hardships and maintain focus on long-term goals.

            Ultimate Goals: Writing and Entertaining

            As an artist, Clipreel’s goal is to write and entertain. As a producer, his focus is on patience and attention to detail—crafting projects with care and precision.

            Inspiring Others: A Journey of Impact

            Clipreel’s journey aims to inspire youth and students, proving that resilience and dedication can overcome any setback.

            Advice for Aspiring Artists

            "Don’t rush the process. Use your time wisely. Research, read, and use resources before making decisions. Decision-making skills are key, and the entertainment industry isn’t going anywhere."

            Faith and Values: The Guiding Light

            Faith provides Clipreel the determination to keep going, while values like passion and love drive his creativity. Passion stems from resilience, and love is rooted in spirituality.

            Dream Collaborations: H.E.R. and Pharrell

            Collaborating with H.E.R. and Pharrell is a dream for Clipreel, thanks to their soulful styles, lyrical genius, and unique creativity.

            A Pivotal Truth

            Despite moments of doubt, Clipreel’s commitment to the craft remains unwavering. The journey has reached a point of no return, with too much invested to turn back now.


            Cover photo by Marcus Williamson

            Clipreel Video

            Check out this great video from Clipreel

            Clipreel Gallery

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