Deprived to developed
Everyone has heard
it before, where the deprived child at a young grows up to be the next 'big
thing'. So what makes this any different?
First of all
this child's name is James, he is no ordinary artist. He is an expert of
capturing meaning in his words, this talent became apparent when he woke up one
morning and had nothing. However instead of him looking for help, he
helped himself.
He was left by
himself at the age of 15, one morning he woke up and there was no-one there.
There was no note, money or anything left for him so he decided to try live for
himself. Although he tried for a while, he realised that he needed the support
of family and friends. Throughout his first year of his loss he found himself
on a path of music, specifically hip hop.
James did what any
growing artist would do which was to go on YouTube and spread his name there.
His most viewed track which is my story was the song that got his name out
there. Not only did he receive funds to help towards his aspiration, he himself
said “I gained more family”
Later on he
started attending rap battles at different venues in his area. Soon after this
he became recognised as JJ. His next step was 'fire in the booth' which
attracted artists such as Tinchy Stryder. Tinchy then asked him to feature in
his concert, this got him a lot of recognition.
When asked by the
media about the disappearance of his mother all he said was “She left because
she had to”. James still to this day believes that his mother’s choice was only
meant to benefit him, somehow he believes that it was done in his best
interests.
The community he
grew up in only has positive things to say about him. One individual said that “The
pain he deals with makes him a real man”. There were many comments like this and
comments about his motivation. From what everyone is saying in his community,
he is a very good role model.
So what happens now?
Surprisingly unlike some hip hop artists he decided to hold back on fame and
help his childhood area. He has invested in a venue for people aged 16- 24 to
express their talent. So far he has had a positive turn out which is still
growing as we speak. It is obvious James
will be a big impact in many people’s lives and when he leaves us he will be
remembered as an amazing artist. One of his best quotes were “Stand strong and
stand together”. It is what keeps him going, take a leaf out of his book.
