In the vibrant tapestry of the music scene, every so often an artist emerges with an irresistible blend of authenticity and innovation. Enter CarlJ, a rising hip-hop/pop artist hailing from the Los Feliz area of Los Angeles, by way of New Jersey. With a career spanning six years, CarlJ is set to release his latest single, “Bright Red ft. 24hrs” in late May to early June, marking another milestone in his artistic journey.
“Bright Red ft. 24hrs” is a testament to CarlJ’s unique blend of lyrical ingenuity and melodic craft. The track features 24hrs, a serendipitous collaboration that originated from a chance encounter on Soundcloud. The standout line, “Flying high for the summer, but then we come back down to earth, we sober,” encapsulates the song’s introspective tone, which resonates with CarlJ’s ethos of speaking from the heart and relating to his listeners’ experiences.
The recording process, CarlJ explains, was “very somber, but also thrilling.” The song delves into the complexities of love and commitment, exploring the push and pull dynamic that many can relate to. The honesty in CarlJ’s lyrics, combined with a captivating soundscape, makes for an intriguing listen.
CarlJ’s music serves dual purposes. It not only provides a medium for his creative expression but also acts as a catalyst for listeners to experience happiness and cope with their emotional struggles. His music is inspired by all genres, but primarily falls within the realm of hip-hop/pop, which allows him to communicate universal experiences through his distinctive style.
When asked about his journey in the industry, CarlJ highlights the influence of his father and artists like Mac Miller, who shaped his appreciation for music. He’s also candid about the current music scene, expressing a desire for streaming platforms to offer more support to artists, despite acknowledging the greatness of the community.
As for the future, CarlJ envisions himself pushing the boundaries of his artistry to not only sustain his life but also contribute positively to those around him. His advice to budding musicians is to stay true to their voice and navigate their passions calmly.
When reminiscing about his music, CarlJ fondly recalls his song “smile” as one of his favorites. In terms of dream collaborations, CarlJ expresses a deep admiration for the late Mac Miller, as well as Lil Uzi Vert and Wiz Khalifa.
CarlJ’s “Bright Red ft. 24hrs” promises to be another impactful addition to his growing discography. With every track, he continues to solidify his place in the music world, bridging the gap between personal expression and universal connection. Keep an eye on this rising star as he continues to create music that resonates and uplifts.
