Already a dap hand with his song writing ability with the likes of X factor Boyband JLS, Tinie Tempah and rising star Sasha Keable it’s no surprise that J Warner’s first foray into solo material has caused quite a stir.
Following the launch of his debut single ‘Chill Chase’ (feat. Wretch 32) we managed to chase down the man himself for a quick chat.
An impressive debut single featuring Wretch 32, How did you two come to working with each other?
We had been working together for a little while and throwing ideas back and forth for his new album. We were in the studio one night and I decided to play him my EP. Of all the songs, it was ‘Chill Chase’ that triggered something in him.
You speak out about domestic violence. Where did the inspiration come for writing something so gripping?
The inspiration grew from the reaction to the film ‘Murdered by my Boyfriend’. The topic seemed to ring true to so many people, and touched so many lives that I felt compelled as an artist and a person to express it through my music. I’m not an expert, but the topic of domestic violence is a very sensitive one and sometimes music helps express those things we are often afraid to say.
Will all your tracks be touching on such nail-biting topics or will we see more toned down material for your second release?
My music is largely influenced by what is going on around me, and in my life. It reflects how I feel at that time. It’s about creating music that evokes emotion in the listener, regardless of what that emotion may be. Every experience marks a new chapter reflected in my EP ‘Est. 1990’. It’s not about toning things down, it’s about exploring art and creativity – each piece may be received differently.
You have written for the likes of Tinie Tempah, JLS and Sasha Keable? What were they like to work with?
They were great! I had a lot of fun working with them and learned a great deal along the way. For me however, it’s not necessarily about ‘celebrity’ presence. I want to be around talented and driven people, I want to create amazing music and have fun with it.
Who would you most like to write a song for?
It would have to be Beyoncé. She is the closest thing we have to a real life living legend. Her delivery of each song is out of this world and she connects with the music and the lyrics in a way that is unlike any other. She’s also someone who is open to reinventing herself and exploring new sounds. As an artist and as a writer, those characteristics are essential to me.
If there was one track you wish you had written what would it be?
At the moment it would have to be ‘Uptown Funk’. It is just so creative and different to some of the music that is currently out there. It has a different energy and feel about it. There is just something about that song, it’s brilliant.
Have you ever had writers block? How did u draw yourself out of it?
Everyone experiences writers block! It’s just one of those things. The only way to get through it is to clear your mind, in order to let new ideas form. If you overthink something, your mind is clogged with the wrong energy. Meditating is extremely therapeutic and helps me relax.
Describe your music in 5 words.
Three Dimensional New Age Art!