Marcaux

Just B Polo, IMC’s 2014 Artist Showcase winner, captured the hearts of fans and the favor of expert judges. But before he made it to that life-changing performance in Atlanta, GA, Just B Polo was among the ranks of a million other young and ambitious artists hungry for a chance to shine.

As a 20-year-old rapper from Long Island, NY, Just B Polo heard about The International Music Conference through a friend who frequented the music scenes of Atlanta. When asked what made him sign up for the showcase Just B Polo replied, “I think I was told through a friend that lives down in Atlanta. He told me about all the industry people that would be involved and I defiantly [sic] wanted to be apart [sic] of that.” The mention of the IMC industry insiders that would be in attendance was more than enough to confirm Just B Polo’s intuition that this event was one he couldn’t afford to miss.

In anticipation of the competition showdown, he submitted his information online and began preparing for the showcase. Focusing on perfecting and polishing every aspect of his performance, from showmanship all the way to dictation of each rhyme, Just B Polo knew he only had one chance to get it right.

After feeling the euphoria of performing and the exhilarating energy of the room, the excitement was short-lived and it was time to hear the criticism. Although he was nervous to hear their initial responses, he was ready to embrace their suggestions. When asked about the most memorable piece of critique he received, Just B Polo explained how the judges felt his stage presence was the area that needed the most improvement. He has implemented those changes by stating, “Now when I do shows I go out with more confidence and I try to interact more with the crowd, like jump in the crowd. It was definatly [sic] good advice.”

Among a few other small details, criticism was not all the judges wanted to say to Just B Polo because they later announced that he was the grand prize winner. Just B Polo admitted, “I was surprised because I didn’t think I was going to win… I never did a show where you actually get critiqued by judges after the show and a winner that gets awards.”

Since winning the showcase Just B Polo has been continuing to master his craft. “I’ve been doing a lot more shows and that was one of my first shows. I recently put out an album on July 1st and have been shopping that around in the industry. Just trying to build a fan base.” As far as his meeting with the A&R the IMC set him up with he explained they have been “talking extensively” about his music career. He is extremely hopeful for collaborations in the future. For up-coming artists looking to attend the IMC Just B Polo advises“just be social because you never know how important someone is until you meet them. The more people you meet the more opportunities you will have. - The IMC Magazine

HHO: Introduce yourself to the fans.

B. Polo: Whatsup everybody. This is Just B. Polo

HHO: How did your artist name come about?

B.Polo: I actually took it from my friends twitter handle (JustBKeenan) back in high school. It fit because my last name is “Bellomo” (“B”) and my first name is “Marco” so i used “Polo”. The deal was I can use the name as long as I give him credit when someone asks about it.

HHO: Where are you from?

B.Polo: Long Island, New York. More specifically, a small town called Seaford.

HHO: Who were your musical influences growing up?

B.Polo: I’ve been listening to Ludacris and Eminem since before I can remember. I have a lot of influences outside of HipHop too like Justin Nozuka. I was also always really into Motown music.

HHO: What hip-hop albums did you grow up listening to?

B.Polo: Beastie Boyz “License to Ill” was the first album my mom ever gave me at 3 years old. From there I loved the Marshal Mathers LP, Word Of Mouf, Get Rich or Die Trying, stuff like that. Lil Wayne albums also had a huge influence on me.

HHO: What is the current single/project that you are promoting?

B.Polo: “Working For It” (Produced by Just B. Polo) is the first single off of my upcoming album “Desensitized” which is expected to be released this spring or early summer. The Official video is up on youtube, and it is available on iTunes.

HHO: How did the record come about?

B.Polo: I was told I needed a “Hit” on my next album, something that fits todays style. While agreed, I wanted to put my own twist on todays sound, so I added a lot of heavy rock sounds to the production to give it a cool twist.

HHO: What would be your dream collaboration with any rapper or producer?

B.Polo: Andre 3000 and Tech N9ne are the first artists that come to mind. My Dream production-wise is to be handed an unreleased Dilla beat.

HHO: Are you currently touring or have any upcoming shows?

B.Polo:
My current booked shows:
March 30th – Elmhurst, NY (Already Did)
May 21st – New York, NY
May 28th – Fort Lauderdale, FL
July 28th – Chicago, Il

HHO: How is the response from your fans & djs been?

B.Polo: A lot of positives. Enough love and support to keep me going. I appreciate all the support I get from fans and DJs. Its the most important thing to me.

HHO: What artists do you listen to the most?

B.Polo: Right now I’m really into Childish Gambino, Machine Gun Kelly, Joey Bada$$, Tech N9ne. Not many people I dont like nowadays.

HHO: What are your plans for 2015? What are you doing that others are not?

B.Polo: 2015 is big for me for booking shows, trying to set up college shows for the fall, and releasing this album. I think I’m working harder than anyone I know which makes me stand out. I’m already in the studio working on my 3rd album when my 2nd isn’t out yet. Always working 24/7 and planning my next steps!

HHO: How can your fans reach you?

B.Polo: Twitter and Instagram are my favorites right now, follow me @JustBPolo .

HHO: Any last words or shout outs?

B. Polo: Thanks for the interview! Look out for my “Desensitized” album coming out soon! - HipHop OverLoad

Just B. Polo: 8 p.m. at The Champ, 52 Market St., Lemoyne. Cost: $5 (venue cover)

If you're looking to enjoy some live hip-hop, be sure to stop by The Champ during Just B. Polo's set. - Penn Live