Rap music has always been, at best, about storytelling. It’s a way to share the realities of life, both the good and the bad. And when it comes to sharing a story, nobody does it better than J. Irja.
J. Irja is a multifaceted raptress from Ontario, Canada. She grew up in a tough neighborhood surrounded by poverty, violence and addiction.
J. Irja shared with The Source early memories of music being a healing source for her, “Music got me through so many tough times. Starting when I was poor growing up, music and writing songs was my escape. It was the only thing that was always there for me. Me and my little sister used to make up songs and dances, and dream about how we would perform them in front of thousands one day. Since she passed away, sharing my journey of healing with others has been what’s kept me going.”
A childhood escape turned into an adulthood dream as she continued to write lyrics that have been deemed raw, honest and deeply moving. So much more than just a songwriter, J also wears the hat of singer, director, rap artist and executive producer. Yes, you read it right, she writes all her own music, directs her own music videos and is the executive producer over every piece of her music.
An authentic storyteller indeed, J can contribute stories of overcoming homelessness, poverty, brain damage, alcoholism and sex trafficking, and becoming a mentor, mental health advocate and boss. She is a shining example of how rap music can be used to tell a powerful story. Her lyrics are full of emotion and impressive wordplay. When you hear J. Irja’s music, you can tell she’s been through a lot and she has an important message to share with the world. Her lyrics aren’t just full of platitudes or catchy hooks, they have real-life depth and gravity.
J. Irja is both, inspiring and uplifting, and so is her music, despite her sometimes dark and thought-provoking lyrics. She is a beacon of hope and she is showing others you can overcome even the darkest of pasts, and create a brighter future. Her message of hope and perseverance is something that can benefit all of us.
Her ability to weave meaningful lyrics into powerful music is what makes her stand out from the rest. She wishes to be remembered as the woman who got knocked down, but always got back up no matter what; the woman that went through hell, yet somehow on her way out found herself and returned to help others out of it. J. Irja is a unique and talented artist, to say the least, who has an important message to share with the world, and her music is sure to inspire people for many years to come.
Check out J. Irja’s new single “It’s Mine” below. It’s sure to be one of the most talked-about hip hop offerings of the year.
Keep Up With J. Irja
Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | TikTok | Apple Music | TIDAL | Spotify | Pandora
