Challenging Perceptions: A Deeper Look at the Music Industry
In an era where the music industry often appears as a well-oiled machine churning out hit after hit, few artists take the time to pause and reflect on the industry’s deeper intricacies. Jay Steph’s album Perspective stands as a rare beacon in this landscape, encouraging listeners to delve beneath the surface and ask the hard questions. This project challenges the conventional and invites listeners to view the industry through a different lens, one that requires an open mind and a willingness to engage with ideas that might otherwise be dismissed as mere “conspiracy theories.”
The term “conspiracy theorist” often carries negative connotations, especially in discussions about the music industry. Yet, Perspective pushes against this narrative, urging listeners to move beyond surface-level understanding and critically examine the forces at play. The album’s thematic focus resonates deeply with the works of artists like Kendrick Lamar and MF DOOM, who have historically used their music as a platform for social commentary and introspection.
Kendrick Lamar, with his introspective lyricism and sharp societal critiques, has been a game-changer in the world of hip-hop. His influence is palpable throughout Perspective, especially in the intricate rhyme schemes and complex flows. Jay Steph’s approach mirrors Kendrick’s ability to weave storytelling with challenging ideas, inviting listeners to engage with the content on a more cerebral level. Similarly, MF DOOM’s unconventional approach to rhyme and structure offers a template for breaking the mold, which Perspective embraces wholeheartedly. The album doesn’t just follow in the footsteps of these legends; it builds upon their foundations to create something uniquely its own.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Jay Steph’s creative process behind Perspective is his relationship with the instrumentals. Unlike many musicians who start with lyrics or a concept, Jay Steph allows the instrumental to lead the way. The instrumental is more than just a background track; it’s the spark that ignites the entire creative process. The tone, word choice, and rhyme schemes all flow from the feeling that the instrumental evokes.
This method of creation is reminiscent of producers like J Dilla, whose beats were often seen as complete works of art in their own right, providing the perfect canvas for artists to paint their lyrical masterpieces. In the same way, the instrumentals on Perspective are crafted to speak directly to Jay Steph, serving as both muse and foundation. The process of mimicking BPMs or melody patterns from favorite tracks to create original beats also highlights a deep understanding of music’s technical aspects, akin to how producers like Madlib approach their craft.
Independent Grind: The Challenges of Going It Alone
The journey of creating Perspective has been anything but easy. As an independent artist, the challenges are manifold. Jay Steph and his manager, Domo Marsh, have had to navigate the complex and often unforgiving landscape of the music industry without the backing of a major label. This “getting it out the mud” approach requires significant financial and emotional investment, as everything is done out of pocket. Yet, Jay Steph remains undeterred, driven by a deep faith that their hard work and dedication will pay off.
This independent grind is a narrative that has played out time and time again in the music industry. Artists like Chance the Rapper have famously rejected major label deals to retain creative control, and while the path is challenging, the rewards can be immense. The autonomy gained through independence allows for a level of authenticity and artistic freedom that is often compromised in more commercial ventures. Perspective is a testament to this philosophy, standing as a project that is both personal and unfiltered.
