For our latest edition of TWIB Meets, we get to chat with London,UK based artist J The Exodus who recently released the video for his anthemic single “Beast Mode“.

Sit back, relax and check out the chat below.

For the benefit of anyone who’s been living in an underground bunker for the last ten years…who on earth are you?

Lol! I’m J The Exodus! Vocalist, rapper, musician and co founder of Less Is More Music hailing from South East London!

How did you get started in music, and what drives you to continue?

I initially started out through dance as early as the age of 5. That then developed into singing, rapping, writing and performing etc

Do you remember the first recording/song you ever made?

I can remember my earliest musical creations! They developed from poetry and the flourished into songs. Some of my earliest material was alongside my label mate and label co founder AKS, we’ve be on this musical journey 20 plus years together!

If a movie about your life in music was to be made, what interesting/strange moments and stories would you share to make the movie cool?

I would have to incorporate the days in the school playground rapping and creating songs. Alongside that the days in the classroom beating on tables freestyling and annoying my teachers, that was my thing! There would also be the happy memories and not so happy memories with family and friends throughout my childhood. All in all, it would be a story of triumph and perseverance.

Are there any other interesting facts about you that hardly anyone else knows?

Nothing off the top of my head lol….;)

What is the greatest thing about working in the music industry? And what would you change if you had the opportunity?

It’s the getting to love and showcase what you do, that’s what drives me. Music has been a lifelong passion of mine. The industry provides solid networking opportunities, now the power of the internet and technological advancements allows us as artist to connect directly with the artist so less need for a quote on quote industry.

I’m on a journey climbing my way up, so current position would be great to change but it’s all a progression.

Looking back, what have been the most important moments in your life so far?

Being raised by a strong loving family. Having them and those experiences as a foundation makes e who I am today.

Aligning and meeting friend’s peers and others who have played a key role in my life and making doors open

The struggles and blessings are just as valuable to me and there will be more to achieve and enjoy as well as overcome

What have been the biggest highlights?

Queen’s Golden Jubilee performance

MOBO finalist/tour

From Darkness Came Light launch party

Wireless Festival

Voice of the Streets (Stratford Circus)

What has been your biggest challenge…and how did you overcome it?

The musical setbacks and frustrations have been a challenge but by not quitting and digging deep vie found how self determined I am, I think that’s why I love boxing so much. It’s a sport that is all about overcoming fear adversity and aiming to persevere

Who are your heroes? Why do they rock your world?

Marcus Garvey – He stood up for his people and something he believed in and fought for it.

Muhammad Ali – a legend in and out of the rings inspired millions as a fighter and activist. He never showed feared.

Bob Marley – used his music to spread a message of love and unity.

Who have been the coolest, most memorable people you’ve met along the way, and how did they make an impact on your life?

As of the campaign & release of the “Beast Mode” and the EP “Heart’s Desire” to come I’ve had the chance to connect with a couple of aspiring boxers which has been cool.

Other notable aspiring or established artists/people I’ve worked with met or in my circles that have inspired me include – AKS, Fuse ODG, Shakka, Mikel Ameen, Aml Ameen, Sebastien Eubank, John Boyega, Suli Breaks, Amaru Don, Tawiah, Wilson, Dane Baptiste. And the list goes on! One way or another these individuals have inspired me!

When you’re sitting on the porch age 97 what would you like to look back on and smile having achieved?

I would like to look back with pride in how I inspired and helped each other. As well as becoming the best possible version of myself.

What has been your most memorable or inspirational gig and why?

Performing at the Queen’s Golden Jubilee 2002 at Hyde Park in front of thousands and live BBC television is still most memorable and inspiring due to the occasion.

What has been your strangest celebrity encounter?

Meeting Tom Jones at college! I went to the Brit School, but still not the everyday celebrity you think you’ll get to meet.

Who would be your ideal dinner guest, living or dead, and what would you serve them?

Stan “Tookie” Williams, Chicken breasts, veggies and a 40z beer

What are the greatest songs, albums, books, movies, TV shows, websites you’ve ever come across?

TV shows

Fresh Prince of Bel Air

Game of Thrones

West World

The Simpsons

Songs

Michael Jackson – Remember the Time

Prince – When Doves Cry

Eric Clapton – Wonderful Tonight

Tupac – Changes

Red Hot Chilli Peppers – Californication

Albums

Purple Rain

Off the Wall

All Eyez on Me

Illmatic

The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill

Voodoo

Books

The Power of Now

The Alchemist

Power of the Subconscious Mind

The Isis papers

Movies

Coming to America

Terminator

Shawshank Redemption

Malcolm X

Ghost

Boyz In the Hood

Contact

The Matrix

Event Horizon

The Wood

Best Man

Brown Sugar

Name 5 songs (yours excluded) that we would expect to find on your iPod or Music Player

Lauryn Hill – Doo Wop

Nas – One Love

Kendrick Lamar – One Love

Jay Z – So Ghetto

D’Angelo – Lady

What special-hero type skills are you blessed with?

I would compare myself to the Juggernaut, ones I get into my stride and build momentum I’m unstoppable!

Where can everyone reading, this interview keep up with your adventures?

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/jtheexodus

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/jtheexodus

Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/jtheexodus

Website: http://www.jtheex.com

Any final thoughts?

Make sure you check out the brand-new video “Beast Mode” on YouTube and the forthcoming E.P “Heart’s Desire”! Head over to my website www.jtheex.com for more information or any of my social media platforms for regular update!

Love & Light

Check Out More Music From J The Exodus HERE

If you like this article check JOAN TORRES’S ALL IS FUSED (ALBUM REVIEW)