We recently connected with José Gregorio Cardenas (JPLU$) and have shared our conversation below.

JPLU$ , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.

I’m excited to delve into the discussion of my forthcoming EP release, a project meticulously brought to life at NH Studios, guided by the expertise of Grammy-nominated sound engineer, Eddy Bethoben. Each track on this EP, titled ‘Todo Se Va a Dar,’ is the result of the fusion of my creative vision, under the musical genius of Eddy Bethoben.

Taking inspiration from the vibrant Miami lifestyle and my personal experiences in the heart of New York City, ‘Todo Se Va a Dar’ presents a diverse array of musical styles. The EP harmoniously combines genres such as Trap, Drill, and Jersey, enriched by the infusion of guitars and innovative sound elements. Notable singles on the EP include ‘Bugatti Pagani,’ ‘Esto Es Miami,’ ‘Ya No Quiero Amor,’ and an intriguing Drill track titled ‘Scarlett Johansson,’ which pays homage to my faithful canine companion.

The anticipation is palpable as we approach the release of ‘Todo Se Va a Dar’ this November, available on all major streaming platforms. Brace yourselves for an auditory experience that will undoubtedly leave you yearning for more.”

JPLU$ , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

**JPLU$: A Harmonious Journey of Dreams and Triumphs**

Greetings to all the vibrant readers of Voyage! I am Jose Gregorio Cardenas, or as the world now knows me, JPLU$. My musical adventure kicked off during my teenage years in the lively streets of Caracas, Venezuela, where I took my first steps as a singer and songwriter. Life, with its unpredictable twists and turns, led me to the United States amidst the political turbulence in Venezuela. Like countless other immigrants, I had to momentarily set my dream aside. Yet, even during those challenging times, I kept the spirit of music alive, occasionally crafting freestyle rap for my friends.

Then, the pandemic arrived, a moment of reflection for many. For me, it became a turning point. I decided to reignite my passion for music, striving for a more meaningful and purposeful life, and to fulfill my lifelong dream of becoming a performing artist. Over the last three years, my creative spirit has flourished, resulting in over 150 songs. I’ve even had the honor of writing and composing five exceptional songs for other artists. Along this remarkable journey, I’ve taken on the role of a rap coach, imparting my wisdom and nurturing new and seasoned talents in the recording studio.

My musical repertoire now boasts eight singles, two of which are breathtaking collaborations with international stars like Kitty Soucre and Ever Pro. One of these collaborative gems is “Boom Boom Bebe,” a song that was recorded at the prestigious Paramount Records in Los Angeles, produced under the guidance of the talented Grammy winner Segal Huredia. The counts with and official music video that came to life as an artistic masterpiece, and was brought to fruition by Miami’s finest music video director, Djey Cubero, and produced by the exciting On The Beat Boy Productions. The video also came to life with the enchanting choreography of Janeth Briceño, affectionately known as “La Coreografa de las Estrella’s,” and showcased a dance crew featuring some of the industry’s most exceptional talents.

Since my previous encounter with Voyager, I’ve unveiled three new songs and their enchanting music videos. I’ve had the privilege of sharing my talent with the vibrant Miami local scene, including the iconic Domino Park at Calle Ocho. My music now resonates across the globe, gracing the playlists of listeners in nearly every corner through my Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Music artist profiles. My fan base has swelled, both in person and across my expanding presence on social and streaming platforms.

November is a month of joyous events as I prepare to introduce and celebrate my latest musical creation, an EP featuring six songs ranging from Trap to Jersey, Drill, and Rap. This musical gem, titled “Todo Se Va a Dar,” is produced by the Grammy-nominated Eddy Bethoben and the innovative On The Beat Boy Productions. The title is a testament to my unwavering belief that dreams and goals manifest with time, dedication, and faith. As I often say, “Si Dios está conmigo, ¿por qué no?” (If God is with me, why not?).

I couldn’t be happier with the decision to follow my passion and bring my dream to life. Over time, I, JPLU$ the artist, have become more prominent in the music scene. My coaching, songwriting, and performances have evolved, reaching new heights. I derive immense joy from creating and performing my own songs and witnessing the happiness they bring to my fans and audience. One of the greatest feelings I’ve discovered in the past year is hearing the songs I’ve penned being performed by other artists.

As I pen these words, my heart overflows with happiness, and my face beams with gratitude to God, my cherished fans, and every individual who has played a role in my success.

I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the readers and journalists of Voyage magazine for affording me this incredible opportunity to share my journey and the remarkable projects that lie ahead.

Remember, you must follow your dreams because, in the end, it’s you who can make them come true.

De Miami, for the world – Yeah yeah! Yeah yeah!

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist and a creative is the sheer joy of witnessing how a single idea can spring to life through the stroke of a pen. It’s a magical process where the melodies, the lyrics, and the voice harmoniously unite to craft a masterpiece that resonates with the soul.

But what truly fills my heart with happiness is the ripple effect of creativity. As a rapper and songwriter, I have the privilege of not only giving life to my ideas but also extending a helping hand to others. The creation of music is a collaborative venture, and every project I undertake opens doors for talented individuals who share my passion. I get to employ musicians, producers, visual artists, and so many others, creating opportunities and supporting their dreams in the process.

The ability to spread joy and emotion through my art is the most beautiful reward of all. Music has a remarkable power to touch the hearts of people across the world, transcending boundaries and bringing smiles, tears, and a sense of connection. Knowing that my work can have such a profound impact on the lives of others is a source of boundless happiness, and it’s what drives me to continue on this incredible creative journey.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

My creative journey is fueled by a profound mission – one that I wholeheartedly embrace and carry with unyielding enthusiasm. It’s a mission of inspiration, a testament to the incredible power of hard work, faith, and unwavering dedication in the pursuit of dreams, no matter how colossal or seemingly outlandish they may appear.

I believe that the only true obstacle in our path to achieving greatness is ourselves. Through personal growth, the expansion of our minds, and the continuous nurturing of our inner selves, we hold the key to not only realizing our own dreams but also to molding the world into the place we aspire it to be. It’s a mission rooted in the profound belief that individual success can collectively shape a brighter future.

At the core of my creative journey is a burning desire to bring the enchantment of music to the hearts and ears of every urban music lover on this planet. It’s a dream I’m fervently committed to, and it’s driven by the belief that music possesses a unique and transformative power. Through captivating melodies and meaningful lyrics, I aim to capture the very essence of the human experience, evoking emotions, connecting people, and inspiring them to dream big and reach for the stars.

My mission is to create a musical journey that not only entertains but also touches the soul. It’s about breaking down the barriers that separate us and allowing the universal language of music to unite us in a shared experience of joy, reflection, and inspiration. With each note and every verse, I hope to weave a tapestry of sound that resonates with individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and walks of life.

In the end, my mission isn’t just about me; it’s about uplifting the human spirit and fostering the belief that, through hard work, unwavering faith, and dedication, we can turn even the most audacious dreams into reality. I’m on a quest to remind the world that the power to create the future we envision lies within us all, waiting to be harnessed, one melody at a time.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jplusmusic_/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@JPLUSMUSIC
• Other: Spotify Artist profile: https://open.spotify.com/artist/43ckvOf75RBbJDoViS4EAo?si=uAGP4xvkRG2C50GmRZUfbw Apple Music Artist Profile: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/jplu%24/1613463648

Image Credits
Images credit to: Djey Cubero Estefania Gomez