J. Reyez Interviews w/ Jackfroot

Here’s another dope interview by the people of Jackfroot as they got to talking with the Canadian rapper known as J. Reyez. He talks a little bit about his philosophy behind life, how he likes to stay healthy and keep a balance, his workflow when writing a song and more. It’s only 10 questions so it’s a quick but informative read. You can check it out by either heading on over to Jackfroot or checking it out after the jump.

1. Being Asian, the typical career paths our parents want us to pursue are doctors, engineers, and lawyers. Knowing that your dad has never been around, how does your mom feel about you and your career in music?
My mom didn’t really know about it til not too long ago. I have an older sister that is very smart and educated so I always felt I was compared or had to live up to that since I felt my parents were in favor towards her and what she has going for her. When my mom found out that this is what I do and she started to see the progress, she supported it 100% and doesn’t doubt me one bit as long as I’m happy with what I’m doing.

2. The music industry has definitely changed from where it was 10 years ago, especially with Asian Americans on the rise. What are your thoughts and feelings on the Asian American entertainment scene?

I think that it is definitely improving and the support is stronger than it’s ever been but I do feel it still lacks the full support that our community needs but through time, I’m sure it will only grow and improve.

3. When you’re traveling, what are some of your favorite foods to eat on the road?

I’m kind of a health freak haha so I like to snack on fruits even if it cost $8 at the airport for a small cup of fruits. I also tend to get a lot of “real fruit” shakes haha

4. A lot of your female fan base want to know if you are you in a relationship or not. If so, how do you find time to manage and balance your business life with your personal life?

Haha whether or not I’m in a relationship, I just don’t talk about it! Sorry  It can be difficult sometimes though balancing out my personal life with my career life since I’ve had some issues in the past with previous relationships but I still manage. A lot of jealousy and trust issues and girls just have a big assumption on artists that become popular are all the same and like to mess around but that isn’t true. I live a normal life back home and my life and “the life” is 2 different things.

5. If you’ve ever been in love, what’s your definition of love?

My understanding of love is when my partner’s happiness is essential for me to be happy.

6. How has the internet influenced the way you promote yourself and connect with fans?

I think the internet is the biggest tool in today’s world. Whether it’s music, business, entertainment, everything. It has given me the opportunity to be heard internationally, reaching countries I would’ve never thought I’d ever have fans in. I think it’s great and I’m happy I can connect with fans and see how they feel about everything I put out and help me through my journey.

7. If you can turn back time to relive one special moment over again, what would it be?

Hmmm… Probably my childhood and the times I spent with my childhood friends.

8. A lot of artists come across writers block. What do you do to overcome this and spark your creativity again?

I don’t do anything to overcome it. When I have writers block, I don’t force myself to write, I just discontinue and wait. I have the most random times where I’m staring at the ceiling trying to sleep but then I get an idea for a song and I jump out of bed, even if it’s 5am, and I start producing a beat and working on a track. Some beats I get from producers, I don’t use for a few months because nothing has sparked for me to write about. I can only write a good song when I’m in the zone and I feel it. I’m not a machine and most of my lyrics are inspired and influenced from real life situations and my emotions so it can sometimes be limited.

9. If you weren’t doing music, what do you see yourself doing?

I don’t see myself doing anything but music. I had no direction when I was younger and I’ve made many mistakes that decreased the amount of opportunities that would work for me so music is all I had and loved to do.

10. Where do you see yourself in five years?

Successful. Success to me is me being able to provide for my family so my mom doesn’t have to work so hard and to be able to carry myself comfortably without worrying about the bills and I’m gonna make it through the next few months.