While the District is mostly known for its go-go rhythms and bounce beats, hip hop electronica beat maker and recent transplant Jerztheproducer is aiming to put his own stamp on the city.
“D.C. is a city that is known for embracing change,” JTP told the AFRO during a recent interview. “When a lot of people come to D.C., they usually want to become a lawyer or get into the political scene. I came here to be a big fish in a small pond.”
Beyond the city’s traditional go-go repertoire, the District is indeed the home of politicians, lobbyists and executives galore. But an emerging hip-hop music scene lies in the city’s crux and JTP is a recent inductee.
Originally born and raised in Mount Holley, N.J., the musician got his start in production when he taught himself how to play the keyboard and saxophone at a young age. When he turned 11, JTP started playing drums for his grandfather’s gospel group and later tried his hand at beat making, utilizing MTV’s Music Generator PC program.
He left New Jersey in 2002 and enrolled in Atlanta’s Morehouse College. Following his collegiate career, he briefly moved to Los Angeles and returned to Atlanta shortly thereafter to perfect his craft. But he later realized that his unique style of production, electronic and dance- infused hip hop, didn’t match the city’s “dirty south” signature sound.
Thus, he packed up and settled in the District and says the move was ultimately ideal.
“There are great studios in this area–as a DJ or producer, you have everything you need right here,” he said.
JTP’s now celebrating the release of his new recently released single “Solar Love,” and is hoping his unique sounds will capture his new city’s attention.
“I just want to present audiences with a different side of music,” JTP said. “ hear a lot of R&B and rap, but I think music represents freedom. It’s very eclectic and experimental and I think it’s time for something new to come around.”
And for the District, that time has arrived especially with the recent influx of locally-based artists who are garnering mainstream exposure.
“The music that are providing is very innovative and I think D.C. needs that,” JTP said. “I think people really need to take a look at the city−yeah there’s New York and Atlanta, but D.C. has a lot of opportunities. Those guys are really utilizing their resources here.”
JTP added that he his eyes set on quite a few DMV-area artists that he wants to work with in the future.
“I would love to work with Mya, she’s great and I grew up on her,” JTP said. “I like Phil Ade, he’s a great artist as well. He’s not really boxed in either with his musical style.”
Next up for JTP is an extended play (EP) album named Ear Anatomy which he says will be solely hip hop electronic dance music, with just a few songs with vocals.
“It’s going to be experimental and innovative,” he said, speaking on the project.
“People are just ready for good music and I just want to bring something new and refreshing.”
For more information on JTP, visit www.jtp.fm.
