Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to JT. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

JT, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today One of the most important things small businesses can do, in our view, is to serve underserved communities that are ignored by giant corporations who often are just creating mass-market, one-size-fits-all solutions. Talk to us about how you serve an underserved community.

I’ve partnered with the non-profit Backspinz. Backspinz is a music academy that teaches music production, deejaying, music business and financial literacy and with their support I’ve been able to put on some great community events in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia.

Just to name a few, I did a skate party to raise funds for the Samaritan House, a nonprofit that helps free individuals, and families from sexual assault, human trafficking, domestic violence and homelessness.

I partnered with backspinz to host a 6 week music summer camp at ForKids, a nonprofit that serves families and children experiencing homelessness.

Also, Backspinz partners with me for my
Beats by JT Beatmas Bash & Toy Giveaway. This is a big Christmas dance party for families in need that I started in 2021. Our goal is always to bring families together during the holiday season and bring joy and smiles to the faces of the kids with free food, family dance challenges and free toys.

JT, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

Beats By JT, a 17-year-old producer and finger drummer, has an impressive journey in the music industry. His passion for music began at a young age, as he started playing a full drum set at the tender age of 3. By the time he was 7, he was creating beats on GarageBand, showcasing his natural talent and knack for music production. At the age of 13, he acquired his first MPC Live, further enhancing his skills. JT’s growth as a producer and finger drummer has been nothing short of remarkable, earning him the title of a prodigy and gaining admiration from many in the industry.

Esteemed producers like 9th Wonder and Skibeatz have even referred to him as “The future,” while Mr. Talkbox and El DeBarge didn’t hesitate to label him as “A genius.”
Currently, JT is diligently working towards releasing his debut album, which will feature collaborations with some of his artist friends. Additionally he is engaged in various projects with talented artists such as Miquo, Fly Zyah, Jada Lanae and many others. While JT is excited about his promising future as a producer, he believes in utilizing his gift to spread positivity and be a guiding light to others. The countless messages he receives on social media from musicians and producers expressing how he inspires them fuels his motivation. He cherishes this platform and strives to inspire everyone he encounters through his music and performances, encouraging them to always let their light shine brightly.
You can visit www.beatsbyjt.com to purchase merchandise and support him along his journey.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

I’ve always been a happy kid and completely in love with my gift to play music and sing. When I got my first growth spurt I was in the 7th grade and there were people around that thought I needed to play basketball. But I only liked to play sports for fun so when it didn’t work out I was hated on. That really discouraged me and I actually stopped singing and pursing music. Music became something I did in secrecy. Then the pandemic happened and my dad kept encouraging me to do what I love and only surround myself with people that value and appreciate me. I’ve always really enjoyed making music so I began to focus on doing what I loved, my music. I created a Instagram page, @beatsby_jt to begin documenting my growth. Eventually I began receiving support from so many great music icons such as Jimmy Jam, El DeBarge, Swizz Beats, and Snoop Dogg to name a few.
I know that the pandemic was a really sad time but during that time out of school I was able to rediscover myself, my passion for music and my purpose. Now nothing and nobody can stop me from pursuing my dreams and shining my light to inspire hope through music.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

I had to unlearn seeking other people’s approval. That was a tough lesson for me because I looked up to so many for inspiration but when I met them, they refused to even acknowledge me. I used to want my heroes to see me and decide to support me. I now know to only go where I’m properly valued and appreciated, and have since been blessed to meet some pretty amazing people that do support me. I choose to focus on those relationships.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.beatsbyjt.com
• Instagram: @beatsby_jt
• Facebook: @beatsby_jt
• Youtube: @beatsby_jt

Image Credits
Cindy Kane Photography