J. West

WATCHING TIME FLY WITH J. WEST
By Vanessa Krystin Wong

Emerging in Vancouver’s rap scene is J. West, an artist known for his creative bars and charismatic stage presence. His rap flow brings a gritty, streetwise interpolation paired with productions by his right hand man im’peretiv. With a distinct style that plays homage to late 90′s east coast hip-hop, J. West sits down with BlueprintLIVE and discusses his latest release, W.

How long have you been in the game and what song or artist first made you fall in love with hip hop?

I started making music at 18. I didn’t really start taking it seriously until around 2013 so it’s been almost 2 years of putting in work! Growing up in Canada, I never got to hear a lot of rap music on the radio and my parents weren’t into it at all. I was always fascinated with the beats from a young age whenever I heard the odd song on the radio. Dr. Dre’s Chronic 2001 was the first hip hop record I ever bought. I think I was like 10 or 11 when that shit came out, I remember my mom giving me $20 to buy it from A & B Sound. I got home, popped it in the ghetto blaster and it was a wrap! I fell in love instantly.

W is an amazing 15-track mixtape that features club bangers as well as more chilled out tunes like Youngin’ and Home. Which one do you find speaks more about who you are as a rapper in terms of writing process?

Thank you! The writing process is never the same in terms of how a song comes together. Sometimes I’ll write a hook first, then build from that. Sometimes I’ll write a verse one day and come back to it a week later. It all depends on how I’m feeling.

What do you think of Vancouver’s hip hop/rap scene and how has it helped you as an artist?

I think it’s definitely growing. I’ve witnessed the growth personally over the last couple of years. There’s a lot of young, talented cats doing some dope shit in the city, there just isn’t anyone that’s really taken the torch and ran with it. We’re close tho, real close. Guys like Snak, SonReal and Merkules are all right there at that next level and that success is gonna benefit everyone in the music scene. BlueprintLIVE has also contributed a part in the scene, consistently bringing the hottest artists and gives local dudes a chance to rock some thick crowds! So it’s nothing but positive to the scene out here.

What track off of W is closest to your heart?

This Morning. I wrote it with my girl/baby’s mama in mind. Basically touches on how she’s my ride or die, Bonnie and Clyde type. Always got my back with everything I do and keeps it 100 with me, most deffinitly the love of my life. Blessed to wake up everyday with that one! - Blueprint Live / Vanessa Krystin Wong

Rapper J. West rolls through Crimes & Treasons to discuss the release of his new project, W, his family, the Toronto Raptors and his family.

(Interview starts around 1:28:00) - Crimes & Treasons Radio (CiTR 101.9 FM)

Vancouver, BC – Klipsch Audio recently released a behind the scenes video of their 2014/2015 photo shoot with DeMar DeRozan of the Toronto Raptors. The video features the track “Round Here” from Vancouver rapper, basketball enthusiast and Toronto Raptors fan J. West.

“Round Here” was released back in August as part of his #WestWednesdays series, and was produced by im’peretiv. Despite DeMar DeRozan’s current absence, the Raptors are currently 20-6 and first in the Atlantic Divison. #WETHENORTH. - @kasskills / HipHopCanada.com

Part One
http://www.coopradio.org/audio/download/39378/1416981600.mp3

Part Two
http://www.coopradio.org/audio/download/39379/1416985200.mp3 - DJ Denise / The URP

Vancouver, BC – You could almost smell the anticipation at Venue Nightclub as Southern King Big K.R.I.T returned to Vancouver last week on his Pay Attention Tour. The excitement began to rise as fans entered the building and it was obvious, that it was going to be a night to remember.

The first act was Vancity’s own J. West. Starting off with a bang, West captured the crowd from his first song and despite having strep throat, he held his own, with a strong delivery. His high energy made for an overall solid performance.

Next up was another Vancouverite, Cityreal. Alongside DJ C-Styles, he rocked the crowd with ease. With hard-hitting, boom-bap beats and thought provoking lyrics, Cityreal proved why he is one of the strongest emcees on this side of the country.

The third act was the LS Boys, the final local talent of the night. It was refreshing to finally see a group with more of a Southern influenced style. Their catchy R&B hooks and bumping trap production were the perfect fit for the evening. The trio repped their city to the fullest, but it was obvious who the crowd came to see.

As the lights came back on and the smoke cleared, the DJ hyped up the audience by dropping southern banger after southern banger. It was at that point that the entire energy of the show seemed to pick up, ten fold. Blessing the stage before K.R.I.T came the final opening act, Atlanta’s own Two-9, who were quick to set the tone for the rest of the night. Their heavy 808 party anthems had the audience in the palm of their hands. The group’s set consisted of heavy bass hits, anti-authoritarian bangers, as well as some soulful songs for the ladies. Here for their first time, it seems obvious that they are destined for a bright future.Then came the moment the crowd had been waiting for.

They roared as K.R.I.T stepped on stage and his DJ revealed his booth was made of the front of a classic Cadillac. The illuminated head lights added a final touch to a set design that was out of this world. The crowd prepared for lift off, and began their journey towards Cadillactica. As he boldly went where no man has gone before, K.R.I.T was quick to show why he is the self-proclaimed King of the South. Traversing through the full spectrum of emotion, he touched on many classic hits from throughout his career. From “Temptation” to “My Sub” to “Country Shit” he had the club singing every word.

Alongside crew member Big Sant, K.R.I.T put on a show that will be remembered for years to come. Performing brand new tracks from his up-coming album Cadillactica, it was clear that his confidence was at an all time high. Perhaps that’s why he chose to take us home with “Mt. Olympus”, a song he wrote in response to Kendrick Lamar’s verse on “Control”.

Seems like these days, the Mississippi rapper is hopping on almost everybody’s radar. If you ask me, it won’t be long until the whole world starts to Pay Attention.

Written by Josh Hook for HipHopCanada
Photography by KassKills for HipHopCanada - Josh Hook / HipHopCanada.com

Maestro Fresh Wes told us to let our backbones slide. Michie Mee brought back "Jamaican Funk" to hip-hop. Kardinal Offishall introduced to the world to a little thing he liked to call "Bakardi Slang." And now, Drake has told the world that we may be Canadian, but we can no longer be overlooked. As a part of the Sonicbids Influencer series, I'm proud to present the first Canadian hip-hop playlist.

For generations, Canadian hip-hop has presented itself as a rap chameleon, constantly adapting to the ever-changing environments and cultures that make up the country. Taking on influences from both across the border and across the world, we've developed a regional sound that reflects a musical world view.

While the Toronto rap scene is thriving – as evidenced on this playlist – it shares the spotlight with artists across the country who show true diversity. Every artist chosen presents something special that reflects a sub-genre of North American hip-hop today, leaving a 99.8 percent chance that you'll find something you like on this playlist. Canadians may continue to be the "little brother" of the rap game, but in the wise words of Kanye West, "Big brother saw me at the bottom of the totem / Now, I'm on the top and everybody on the scrotum."

J. West
About the artist: Bringing a hard-hitting street style with a smooth flow and an intense, in-your-face sound, Vancouver resident J. West is an up-and-coming hip-hop artist and musician backed by an equally high-energy live performance. He's opened for numerous hip-hop stars, including Redman, Action Bronson, Pharoahe Monch, Dizzy Wright, Cam'Ron, and more.

Fun fact: J. West's biggest influence is The Notorious B.I.G., to whom he attributes his flow and style.

What's next? Currently dropping weekly singles as part of a 12-week series entitled #WestWednesday, J. West will be releasing the full #WestWednesday mixtape at the series' conclusion. Young & Reckless Vol. 1, his new mixtape full of original production, drops in October. Catch J. West opening for Big Krit in Vancouver on Oct 26. - Erin Lowers / sonicbids.com

Emerging artists in Vancouver are faced with many challenges when it comes to getting their name known. Renting studio space, finding suitable performance venues and an unfocused arts scene are just a small handful of the obstacles waiting to scuttle artistic ventures.

But it’s not all bad for local hip hop duo J. West and Im’peretiv, whose rugged beats and legitimate rhymes are born from the struggle of trying to make a name in the Vancouver hip hop scene.

“About half of our recording happens at my spot, in my house. It’s kind of a basic setup but works to our advantage with the kind of sound we’re going for,” explained Nate Butcher (Im’peretiv) over a sweaty glass of rye and ginger ale.

shitsyle
J. West and Im’peretiv.
“We don’t have top-of-the-line equipment [and it] adds to that grittiness we’re trying to go for.”

Finding ways to stand out from the competition is essential for anyone looking for success, but it may be even more important in a city like Vancouver where there’s a glut of talent but limited opportunity.

“Hip hop [in Van] is a growing scene for sure, but it’s small compared to other cities,” J. West said.

“Nowadays? There are 500 rappers in this city, from all over the Lower Mainland, so you really gotta put out the best product. It’s a long grind and a slow process, but it’s what we’re trying to do.”

J. West and Im’peretiv make a good team. A healthy dose of faith in one another, and respect for each other’s ability puts the rapper/DJ combo ahead of the curve when it comes to organic collaboration.

“[Im’peretiv’s] creative as shit,” grinned J.West.

“I feel what he’s doing, I feel where he’s going… he handles a lot of the backdoor business as more and more stuff starts happening. He’s good at that.”

And for Im’peretiv, the feeling is mutual.

“West’s just being modest,” insisted Im’peretiv.

“For many years there’s been a distinct sound in Vancouver. No disrespect, but there’s a sound that’s been crafted here that a lot of artist fall into. West definitely has a sound and a voice and a message. His rhymes and bars set him apart.

“When you think about how grimy things like Hastings Street are, or when you think about BC bud and the weed industry here, the scene should be booming,” Im’peretiv said.

“You have guys like Wiz Khalifa currently at the forefront, and they’re promoting marijuana and smoking drugs. Van has a huge scene about that.”

Despite this, Venue and Fortune remain the only two clubs hip hop artists can reliably get a gig at.

“The only step up would be something like Commodore,” said J.West.

“We’ve been told we’re never going to make it in our own city until we leave here, and make it somewhere else,” said Im’perativ.

“And then come back home.”

Video edited by Garin Fahlman - Brain Horstead / Glass City

J. West checked into Crimes & Treasons where he and his DJ/producer im'peretiv spoke about the #WESTWEDNESDAYS series, upcoming projects, upcoming videos and upcoming shows. J. West also touches on artists he would like to work with in the city (Vancouver, BC) as well as some of his current influences.

Crimes & Treasons played two previous tracks of the #WESTWEDNESDAYS series, 100 prod. by im'peretiv (Week 7) and Pelican Fly prod. by Stroker DeLuca(Week 6). They also previewed the next track to be released, a We Dem Boyz Remix.

Listen/Download:
http://playlist.citr.ca/podcasting/audio/20140902-210336-to-20140902-230203.mp3 - Crimes & Treasons Radio (CiTR 101.9 FM)

Vancouver, BC – Aaaand here comes the latest #WESTWEDNESDAYS instalment from J.West. The track is produced by Stroker Deluca and features Freeze Wun and #WESTWEDNESDAYS goes humorous this week. Interspersed with an ominous male group chorus and rounded off by a soulful female vocal, the track’s flows are cheeky and “Pelican Fly” is relaxed and fun. Check it out below.

https://soundcloud.com/jwestvc/j-west-pelican-fly-ft-freeze-wun-prod-stroker-deluca - HHCWEST / HipHopCanada.com

Vancouver, BC – It’s Throwback Thursday! And we’ve got some old school J. West from his Throwback EP series. The Throwback EP 2 features five tracks and appearances from J. Dohe and Eazy Terrestrial and is fully produced by im’peretiv. Check it out below and be on the lookout for more cuts from the past from this duo. - @kasskills / HipHopCanada.com

Vancouver, BC - Out of left field J. West drops an unexpected new five track digital EP with producer im’peretiv, The Throwback. The project includes unreleased material the two recorded between 2012-2013 and is a mere glimpse into what the rapper/producer duo have been working on for the last year while taking advantage of the current digital trend known as #throwbackthursday in order to release some older material.

J. West and im’peretiv have been steadily working on a full-length project titled KINGDOM so be on the lookout for that. Until the two are ready to release a single from KINGDOM they have decided to give fans The Throwback – check it out below. - HipHopCanada.com

Vancouver, BC – In an attempt to branch our from the usual local Vancity rap talent we came across a cat named J. West. His recent release Better Late Than Never had us intrigued – clean production and raw energy with a fierce flow – so naturally when invited to check out his release party, we obliged.

Meanwhile, at The Whiskey Bar J. West had his clique in full effect with homies Master of Ceremony open the night. The trio played a few cuts before J. Dohe had his shot at the crowd. A whole other world of Vancouver rap was opening itself up on stage and it wasn’t too bad. Eazy T showed some Eastvan love while his partner in crime B-Day assisted in getting the room hyped for the main man.

West was wild. While champagne sippin’ and rhyme spittin’ he got a healthy sized crowd turned all the way live. We’re keeping these guys on our radar and suggest you do too. Cop Better Late Than Never here and check out the photo set after the jump. - HipHopCanada.com

Debuting his raw and untamed talent, J. West brings the real Vancity rap scene to light with his Better Late Than Never album. Working in production with colleagues and friends The Deep Notes, this is one album that demonstrates extreme maturity for such a new artist. With clean cuts, solid backtracks, and provocative lyrics, J. West makes good on his album title. One listen to his tracks and one is sure to remember the name. Stream and download the entire album for free on Soundcloud. - Nerese Richter / newcanadianmusic.ca

Listen / Download
http://playlist.citr.ca/podcasting/audio/20130409-210253-to-20130409-225939.mp3 - Crimes and Treasons (CiTR 101.9 FM)

Vancouver, BC – We were recently put on to Vancity emcee J. West and we ain’t mad. His recently released Better Late Than Never has West spitting his story through 10 tracks of fierce rhyming with production by The Deep Notes and features from J. Dohe, Young Hungry, Jay Lee, J. Keys and Kate Dawn.

He’s serious about his grind with a follow-up project already in the works – for now we suggest you get real familiar with BLTN. West can be found dropping bangers from his latest at his album release party on April, 13 at The Whiskey Bar with Easy T and J. Dohe. Tickets are $10 and include a free copy of Better Late Than Never. Check the album after the jump. - @kasskills / hiphopcanada.com

J. West just released a new project titled “Better Late Than Never” which tells the story of a young artist faced with the detours and delays on the road to ones true goals. The album is entirely produced by friend and Vancouver producer The Deep Notes. Also, featured on the project are other Vancouver artists; J. Dohe, Young Hungry, Jay Lee, J. Keys and Kate Dawn.

While this may be the first time many of you are hearing the name J. West, it will most definitely won’t be the last. Since the completion of “BLTN” J. West has been in the studio working on a follow up project with Vancouver producer im’peretiv, as well as singles produced by Engineer (Nipsey Hu$$le, Torch, Yo Gotti), Mason Rex, and The Deep Notes. J. West also has in the works a collaborative project with friend and fellow VanCity MC J. Dohe. Keep it locked for more in the future! - Leftovercake

Upcoming Vancouver Hip-Hop artist J. West and producer Imperetiv collaborated on POWER. The track is definitely a hype track! The beat is crazy and J. West has a great presence on his verses. Super Dope! Jam out and enjoy.
Check out their video for POWER. Pretty dope it’s not really a music video but a visual for the track. It’s better this way then having a regular cover art image in the video to show for the track.
- See more at: http://nikkisiixx.com/2012/09/20/new-music-j-west-power/#sthash.ugNjK5En.dpuf - Nikki Siixx / nikkisiixx.com