We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful James Walker. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with James below.

James, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you tell us about a time that your work has been misunderstood? Why do you think it happened and did any interesting insights emerge from the experience?

Being a rapper, comes with an image that most people look over. They think of gangs, violence, drugs, women and all of the negative side of things with Rap and Hip-Hop. Rap is such an inspiration. Not only to people around the world, but for children as well. Inspiring them off the beat, or even the lyrics can save or change someone’s life forever. Give them meaning. Give them hope. Give them a reason to live and push for their goals. People create this image of Rap and Hip-Hop but those same people, have never even dug into the genre.

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.

I am OfficialJWalker. I’m an upcoming Rap and Hip-Hop Artist from North Carolina. My parents used to take me to a place called Steel Horses and my love for music started there. Getting a chance to be on stage at 8 years old, I loved the energy and having all eyes placed on what I would do. As artist, I offer music to all listeners, merchandise that can be worn or even stickers to cups and more that can be supported to show the brand. Business cards to promote my name and what I do. I came into the business with nothing. Seeing now, that the music and name itself has grown into over 150 countries, seeing people support and truly represent what I do is such an accomplishment. I’ve performed at places with 5 or less people. That was a true moment in my life that humbled me into what has became sold out clubs and more to this date. With my name OfficialJWalker and the movement being SuccessDontSleep, my music and what I do is for people who choose to never give up and push for what you want in life, regardless how another may feel.

Any resources you can share with us that might be helpful to other creatives?

I wish I was more into the social media side of it, or having the power of it now, compared to 10 years ago. I came from burning CDs era, so seeing how easy it is to search someone now, is a complete game changer.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

To be more accepting, when it comes to a sound they may not find good the people. The inspiration of Rap and reach of Rap can really fulfills one soul. I come from a background of growing up on Rock music first, but through time I heard Rap, R&B, 80’s, 90’s and more, which opened my mind and view when it comes to making music to this day.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @officialjwalker
• Facebook: @officialjwalker
• Twitter: @officialjwalker
• Youtube: @officialjwalker

Image Credits
@aceshoota @kaseychatman @calebday