We recently connected with Jkai Jones and have shared our conversation below.
Jkai , appreciate you joining us today. What was it like going from idea to execution? Can you share some of the backstory and some of the major steps or milestones?
After creating my single WYNE, me one of my business partners Josh hit the studio in hopes of creating something we both were proud of. I brought a couple demos with me as a starting point, and we were both drawn to a track called “Candid”. The track only had an intro and was a work in progress. Josh played a key role in helping me refine the concept and find the right words. In just a few days, we had finished the first version of the song.
Over the next year, I revisited the project often, producing nearly nine different versions of, “Candid”. It took nearly two years for the song to finally come out. Unlike other songs I’ve created quickly, this one demanded patience and persistence. It wasn’t just about translating my idea into music; I needed to deeply connect with what I was expressing. Sometimes, I need to process certain emotions or thoughts fully before I can translate them into a song.
As an artist, I know when my work is ready, and I’m willing to wait until it reaches that point. It’s okay for ideas to take time to materialize as long as you stay committed and give them the attention they deserve.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
As a Dallas-based recording artist and business owner, I strive to bring innovation and soulfulness to my music. My sound fuses new age, soul, rhythm and blues, and alternative genres, creating a distinct and captivating musical style that sets me apart as an independent artist. My Creole heritage and family ties across Louisiana have deeply influenced my art and business, adding depth and authenticity to my work. Looking back I have to give my parents their flowers. They really are to credit for my diverse musical upbringing. Some of my favorite artists they introduced me to were The Isley Brothers, Lil Flip, George Straight and Etta James.
I create music that is timeless and evokes feelings of nostalgia. To ensure the highest quality of work and integrity within my business, I’m committed to my artistic evolution while remaining true to myself and forever striving to create music that withstands the tests of time.
We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?
In the past, I was fiercely independent and set on achieving success on my own. However, as I gained experience and began learning from industry mentors, I realized the value of having a dedicated team around me. Building a strong support network became essential to growing my business and navigating the complexities of the industry.
How’d you meet your business partner?
I have two business partners who each have played a significant role in my journey.
My manager Madison and I met through a mutual connection when she was organizing a local artist competition on YouTube offering prize money. One of the entry requirements for the competition was an original piece of art. I got to work in the studio on my single “WYNE” where Josh was working as an engineer/ studio hand. We had an instant understanding with each other when it came to the music, and that quickly developed into collaborating on multiple projects.
After the competition wrapped with me coming in 2nd, all three of us decided to form a business partnership, combining our strengths and visions to build an effective business model while remaining true to my brand.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://mokadirect.wixsite.com/jkai-jones
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jkaijonesmusic?igsh=Y3h4YWM2YnIyZzlt&utm_source=qr
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@jkaijones8709?si=1rSzVCBYKqKWVbTP
- Soundcloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/Kzgp6Yf7TWEpu9WA7
Image Credits
Madison Truscan