Following on from the enormous success behind his standout debut single 'Okay' last year, Nigerian-American artist Jssan is back to his best on his glittering and long-awaited follow-up effort 'NoNo'.
Teaming up with Grammy award winning producers Joseph E. Colmenero and Chris Gehringer for the release, 'NoNo' sees him deliver a bold and blistering hip-hop stomper. With his quickfire flow and energetic presence, this new offering is surely set to see him grow even faster in the months ahead.
So with the new single available to stream now, we sat down with him to find out more about his background and influences over the years.
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What was the first band or artist you fell in love with?
The first artist I fell in love with was Lil Wayne, his lyricism and music videos inspired me. At the time that he was breaking into the music scene, he represented something different and he was able to convey his message through metaphors and lyrical structuralism so effortlessly.
Did you ever form a band when you were younger and if so, what did they sound like?
Yes, I was in my church’s band and also in an afrobeat/highlife band that toured the greater parts of the United States. I was the drummer. My role in the band has shaped my musicianship and has allowed me to experiment with different sounds, blending afrobeat and American techniques.
What has been your primary inspiration in writing music?
My primary inspiration in writing music would be all the things I have gone through growing up in a Nigerian household on the Southside of Chicago. There are so many unique things that have happened to me, that I’m able to share through my music. Writing music is how I purge myself of all the good and bad memories and express it creatively.
What is a song you wish you had written yourself?
Earned It by Chief Keef, I listened to that record diligently when it came out. Its energy was unmatchable to any other single that came out when I was in high school. It made me feel good whenever I listened to it and always had me pumped.
If there was any moment in your career you could relive, what would it be?
I'm just starting off in the music industry, but I would most definitely want to relive the experience of shooting my first music video for NoNo. It was a unique experience that brought my vision to life. Shout out to the director, Lawrence Mahone, and his production company, Triptych Visuals, for producing an amazing visual.
Which artist would you most love to share a stage with?
An artist that I would be interested in sharing the stage with would be Lil Durk. As a Chicago native, I know that our fan base would be able to relate to the type of music we make. Chicago support is like no other, it's pure and effortless.
And is there an artist you would love to collaborate with as well?
Sean Kingston, I have been listening to Sean Kingston since I was a kid. I love how he is Jamaican and can effortlessly come up with different melodies that represent where he's from and where he's at. I share similar musical tendencies. It would be interesting just to see his musical process of making hits and writing music.
Where do you see yourself in five years time?
I see myself touring and headlining in shows. I see myself living my vision, being successful, and being able to provide for my family and the communities that raised me.
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Jssan's new single 'NoNo' is available to steam now. Check out the new video for it below.