Rap J is a hip-hop artist from Milwaukee making my official Minneapolis debut on Monday, October 19 at the Underground Music Venue. His sound is refreshing and his story inspiring. He was born with cerebral palsy, came to music very early and has had some awesome women in his life.
Please tell me about yourself and your music.
My name is Rap J and I’m an artist from Milwaukee, WI. I started freestyling at the age of six, immediately falling in love with hip hop. My biggest inspirations include Biggie, Michael Jackson, and Tyler, The Creator. Music gives me the ability to become anything I want. Born with cerebral palsy, rapping not only gave me a voice, but it has also helped me connect with the world in an authentic way. I use my music as a vehicle to provide joy and hope to anyone with a dream—I want people to know that nothing is impossible.
I love the video (and music) for “Let’s Dance.” What was the inspiration for the song and the video?
Thank you so much! That track is from my latest album, Limitless. My goal was to make something fun and upbeat, as showing versatility as an artist is very important to me. Featuring my longtime friend and engineer, Tae The Don, his voice takes “Let’s Dance” to another level. Tae is also the director of my music videos and a true visionary. He can take an idea and make it better than you can imagine, so I’m very fortunate to have him in my corner!
You talk about the influence strong women have had on your music. As a board member of Women’s March MN, I would love to hear more.
I would not be the artist or person I am today without the love and support from the women in my life. I have no bigger influence than my late mother, Tracy Gaston. Besides being the best mom and my number one fan, she instilled in me the courage to dream. She never allowed me to see my disability as a barrier to any goal, and always poured hope and confidence into me. That belief lit a fire inside me and helped me write with freedom.
I would also like to mention my dear friend, Alice Piovesan, who introduced me to the power of vulnerability. For so long I felt shame whenever I reached out for help, but our bond taught me that it is okay to struggle, speak out, be open, and not hide from my emotions. Most importantly, I’ve learned the right people will love you just “The Way You Are”—which is also a deep cut from Limitless.
How do you go about writing songs? Do you start with lyrics, beats, music, or an idea/vibe?
The way I write music is strictly based on feel. Usually, I play beats and listen for a while. Once I catch a vibe, I start freestyling to get the hook/chorus immediately. Since I don’t write lyrics down, I practice until it feels right, then freestyle my verses until they match the hook. Finally, I practice the track until it is studio-ready.
Tell us about your upcoming show in Minneapolis.
I’m making my official Minneapolis debut on Monday, October 19th at the Underground Music Venue! We are bringing a heavy crew of independent Milwaukee talent—including Riz, DJ DSCRIBE, Tae The Don, and Darrin Alston—to bring high energy to the Twin Cities through raw hip-hop lyricism, soulful R&B, and Funk music.
To ensure the show is accessible for everyone in the local community, tickets are NOW $10 online and $15 at the door. Doors open at 7:00 PM, and passes are available now through the link on my social pages. Minneapolis, I cannot wait to see you there—let’s make history on a Monday night!
