Motor City Miracle: JaeKush From the Streets to the Beats

Summary • Introduction and Background of JaeKush ◦ Mattuuii introduces the show, "Mattsuuii's Hip Hop Talk Shop Season Two," and welcomes JaeKush from Chicago, Illinois. ◦ JaeKush shares his background, mentioning his Muslim name, Zaire, and his upbringing on the south side of Chicago in the Roseland community. ◦ Jay Kush discusses his age, turning 30 soon, and his early exposure to music, starting in fifth grade due to his surroundings and experiences. ◦ Kush talks about his conversion to Islam and the impact of violence, drugs, and losing family members on his music. • Mattsuuii"s Music Background and Show Purpose ◦ Mattsuuii shares his extensive music background, including being published with BMI as a professional songwriter at nine, and his degrees in music production and sound engineering. Matt then explains the purpose of the show, which is to find and showcase talented artists who need to be heard. The main topic of the show is the difference between rap and hip hop, with JaeKush defining rap as more for entertainment and hip hop as a storytelling form. Matt emphasizes the importance of creative freedom and the ability to evoke emotions in hip hop, calling himself a "Picasso with a ballpoint pen." • Defining Real Artistry and Storytelling ◦ JaeKush and Mattsuuii discuss the definition of a real artist, with JaeKush stating that an artist should paint a picture with their words. Suuii shares his approach to storytelling, mentioning songs like "It's a Tragedy" and "Shadows Don't Last," and his use of complex vocabulary and metaphors. Kush agrees with Matt's approach and discusses the challenge of not cursing in music, praising Mattsuuii's talent for doing so. The conversation touches on the importance of authenticity in music, with JaeKush speaking from personal experiences and Mattsuuii emphasizing the need for relatable stories. • Independent vs. Major Labels ◦ Mattsuuii asks Jae about his preference for signing with an independent label or a major label. JaeKush expresses a preference for independent labels, citing the lack of control and the multiple levels of command in major labels. Mattsuuii shares the success story of Russ, an independent artist who owned his masters and built a successful career without a major label.The discussion includes the benefits of independent labels, such as creative control and better care for artists. • Merchandise and Collaboration ◦ JaeKush mentions his partnership with a personal camera man and their clothing line, which includes music and camera-related items. Suuii offers to connect Kush with a professional who can provide affordable merchandise, including shirts and beanies. Jay expresses interest in obtaining 100-200 shirts and hoodies for his merchandise. Mattsuuii and JaeKush discuss potential collaboration, with Jay Kush mentioning his upcoming project, "The Voice of Rose," and Matt offering to send beats for Kush to use. • Playing Jay Kush's Music Matt plays Kush's song, "Roseland's Most Wanted," and asks JaeKush about the project it comes from. JaeKush mentions his first project and his upcoming project, "The Voice of Rose," which is expected to release around the end of November or early December. Mattsuuii shares his own music background, mentioning his projects like "Money Over Matter" and "One Blow K.O." The conversation includes plans for future collaboration, with Jay expressing interest in working with Matt and shooting a music video. • Closing Remarks and Shoutouts ◦ Mattsuuii offers JaeKush two free beats and encourages him to pick one or two for potential collaboration. ◦ Kush expresses gratitude and mentions his responsibilities, promising to check out the beats later. ◦ Mattsuuii and JaeKush exchange shoutouts, with Kush shouting out the Chicago area and his community, and Matt shouting out God, music, and the listeners. ◦ The episode concludes with Matt thanking JaeKush for joining the show and expressing excitement for future collaboration.