Having already spent much of last year releasing a wealth of dynamic delights, fast-rising New Jersey native Dre' From Jerz is now back once again to deliver his powerful new single 'Garden State Freestyle, Pt.1'.
Bringing back more of that smooth and driven flow he has earned a reputation for, 'Garden State Freestyle, Pt.1' makes for an incredibly rich and immersive listen. With his killer vocals spread across an enigmatic production from start to finish, he continues to shine as one of the more impressive names on the rise right now.
So with the new single available to stream now, we sat down with him to find out more about his origins and what has been inspiring him most lately.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
Well, the first instrument I ever came across was the clarinet when I was in grade school. Like most, it was a class prerequisite but I never fell in love with it though. Not sure if you'd classify a tape recorder as an instrument but it was quite impactful to what I do now. That may have been my first love(instrument).
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
I'm glad you asked, because prior to hip hop, my favorite genre growing up was 80's pop music. I remember the days like they were just yesterday. In the weekday evenings and weekend mornings, you could find me watching MTV. I remember seeing the moonman mascot, for the network, afterwards Michael Jackson, Prince, Cyndi Lauper, Duran Duran, etc. As a side note, I actually had a small crush on Cyndi Lauper.
What was the first album you remember owning?
I don't remember quite exactly but it was either a cassette tape by the classic hip hop duo, Black Sheep or it might have been one by De La Soul. A Wolf in Sheep's Clothing and De La Soul is Dead (RIP Trugoy the Dove) were two of my favorite albums from back in the day. I don't know which one I got first but they both helped shape my early perceptions and views on hip hop culture and rap.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
Hard Knock Life by Jay-Z. I could have added a few gems of wisdom tucked away in a few bars. The album it (Hard Knock Life) was featured on was one of my favorite modern rap albums.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
There are at least (3) things I do to help gear up to write new music or a new song:
1. Reading self-improvement, fiction, non-fiction, and informational books help sharpen my mind before creating new material.
2. Taking time out of the day to reflect on recent personal as well as current events and past experiences. This is for finding the proper source material for any given song.
3. Sometimes watching movies and tv shows may also spark ideas.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
The recording artists I mainly listen to for inspiration are Jay-Z, Nas, KRS-ONE & 2Pac. Sometimes Drake.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
It would really be dope to open for the Wu-Tang Clan. I am a fan of their raw, edgy and unfettered sound.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
Mainly, for me, it's about creativity and doing something you sincerely love.
And what is the most frustrating part?
Not being recognised for your abilities, talents or works.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
A while back, an A&R from Republic had told me "If you know what to do then just do it." He was speaking in regards to my stage presence and ability to perform. Unfortunately, I tend to focus on studio recording but lack in the area of live performances. Definitely something to work on.
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Dre' From Jerz's new single 'Garden State Freestyle, Pt.1' is available to stream now. Watch the new video for it in the player below.