Hi Jeseka, thank you for taking the time to sit down with us at Grind Weekly Magazine.
Can you tell us who was most influential in your career as an A&R Executive?
That’s a good question, I’d say multiple mentors, Producers, and other Music Executives. Currently, my mentor “DJ Choice” from the DJ Grid has been a huge motivator and influence, specifically, when it comes to my role as A&R. Then, prior to Choice, it would most definitely have to be my very first mentor “Cortez Farris” from NYC, Multi-Platinum Engineer and Record Producer of the late great Whitney Houston and countless others.
How would you describe the majority of music that you typically listen to?
Well, my favorite genre would hands-down be rap/hip hop, but I virtually love and share a passion for nearly all genres from classical, blues, country and rock is up next on my list.
Who would be your choice of Artists or Producers that you would love to collaborate with?
Yikes, now that’s a hard one for sure! But, I stand solid on my future collaboration wishlist, as it still remains to be none other than the “Biggest Boss of all Bosses” Ricky Ross (Songwriter, Rap Artist and Serial Entrepreneur). As ironic as it may seem, I do still have dreams of getting at least one good feature-verse from Rozayyy. Like I stated in my previous interview with TechCulture.Biz ``Rick Ross' ' was and still is one of my biggest inspirations in the music business. I say ‘Ross' because he really sparked a light or flipped a switch” in my brain I suppose. Especially in his meaningful songwriting ability, lyrically he is kind of untouchable on that in the current hip-hop game.
Alright so “Rick Ross” clearly inspired you, but can you elaborate more on the topic?
Well, “Rick Ross” has so much wisdom in regards to the music industry and particularly when it comes to songwriting, ghostwriting, and publishing. I mean, Rose has not only lived it, but he dreamed it and then he took the proper channels to flip the script and be his own boss, which left the industry “shook” especially as a black-owned businessman. I also feel like Rick’s ability to reach people like (myself) with his powerful lyrics, and that alone is simply remarkable and resonates well with me. Ultimately, Rozay’s verbiage on The Black Market album, specifically the songs “Foreclosures” and “Ghostwriter” really propelled me to form my very own entity called “Price Royalty Publishing” which is great.
However, besides Rick Ross, if I could have my wish list of All-Star collaborations with an Artist or Producer then it would likely resemble the following and more: Lil baby, HER, Jack Harlow, Pooh Sheisty, HitBoy, Timbaland, Boi1Da, SZA, Miguel, Kendrick Lamar, The Weeknd, Meg Thee Stallion, Nicki Minaj, Lil Wayne, Drake, Travis Scott, Beyonce and of course Dr. Dre, P.Diddy, Babyface, The American Dream and Johnta Austin.
Young “Jeseka” getting ready for Piano Lessons early in the game!
How do you know music so well? Did you sing or rap previously?
No, absolutely not. However, my parents had me in piano lessons at a very young age. Then in middle school, my father basically told me that I was going to be in the band. I mean I’ve always loved music, I learned music theory around the age of 5. Around age 10, I recall creating my own mixtapes off the hits spun by my radio station. My parents were strict but not too strict, they let me find my way and do my thang, but only after I tried their way at least once. I mean, in hindsight I give my Dad and Mom a lot of credit for putting me in a hobby that I wasn't really into, because those lessons most likely influenced, enhanced, and aided my overall ability to comprehend music so effortlessly, and become the talented A&R that I am today.
Now, when it comes to my passion for the genre of rap music -Rhythm, Bars, and Beats I just know them well. But, I give credit to my older brother “J.P.” he kept me “up-on game” and he always had all the latest and greatest CD’s, Cassettes, Mixtapes from RUN DMC, NWA, and DJ Screw. I used to sneak-grab his Eazy E “Eazy Duz It” tape from his room and listen to it in my room on the low-low. There is just something about rap music that makes me feel free. Other times, I love to challenge my brain by attempting to freestyle over a beat just to see if I still got it and for fun, freestyle rapping is stimulation and homework for the brain. So the answer to the question is no, and I wouldn't be the one seeking talent if I had it.
What Artists or Musicians do you admire the most, besides “Rick Ross”?
Honestly, I admire any artist who is epic with the mic, instrument, or both and for me, it’s all about consistency. I mean talent is great, obviously...but you won't gain an honest fan base or become the next M.J. if you can’t keep up with the music industry while consistently putting out rhymes, beats, or dropping new Hits. Just look at the past history of artists, their success rate along with the fact that they seem to chart on billboard every time while increasing their die-hard fan base at the same time.
For example, Drake -of course, Lil Baby, HER, Megan Thee Stallion, Da baby. crossover to Dua Lipa, Ariana Grande all the way to Mariah Carey, Kelly Musgraves, Taylor Swift, Kenny G, Tupac, Biggie, DMX, Jay Z post or Kanye West pre and post-retirement or creating secular music only. Yes, credit goes to the major labels for financially backing these Artists in Marketing/Promo, but their ability to be timeless, consistent & unforgettable is on them.
What is some of the best advice that you have ever received?
Probably, Never give up on your passion and dream, because if you find yourself pondering about the subject matter every single day or 2-3 times a week, then you most likely have something special. So the reality is you need to believe in yourself, take risks, pray on it, and then simply just do it, like Nike.
Finally, can you tell GRIND WEEKLY what’s next for J2Pricey or Jeseka Price, rather?
Haha, I love how you used my Instagram handle, good looking-out, and great question! Well, I guess my mission is to continue working hard, hustle-smart, and remain humble. Because, at the end of the day...numbers don't lie, so results do matter. But you know what else matters even more than the stats, awards, charts, money, and accolades? Family, my sanity, my peace of mind, and of course my health. I will remain investing in myself, my career, and others -while remembering to Thank God at the end of the day.
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Alright, that wraps up our Candid Q&A Interview from Music Executive and Founding Publisher, Jeseka Price. We look forward to hearing more from you in regards to your current and future projects and keep Grind Weekly updated.
It’s been a pleasure, “Getting To Know You” for this interview. -Thank you.
Publishing Founder and Music Executive: “Jeseka Price”