Today we’d like to introduce you to DeShaunJay.
Hi DeShaunJay, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Music has always been a language I’ve spoken rather fluently. I’ve sang, played instruments, done interpretive dancing, and eventually found my home with creating my own music and showing the world my point of view. It took me a while to decide to go all-in on this journey due to self-doubt, insecurity, family expectations, etc. There was one point where saying you were pursuing music would definitely leave a bad taste in someone’s mouth even if you were great at it. But in 2015, I finally chose to be who I always felt I was meant to be since my first written verse. I started taking shows when the year began and mid-July of that same year I released my first mixtape via Soundcloud. Ever since, each step of this journey has been a learning experience, with every piece of art I release I’ve shown growth and true passion to my craft. What makes it feel even better, I do so while continuing to be exactly who I am, a king meant to FLOURISH.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Definitely not, but as I look back over the years and reflect, each and every dark night, bright moment, heartbreak, disappointment, it’s all a part of the journey and you can’t skip any of it. Of course it’s painful and it takes a toll on you sooner or later, but not every person blessed with the talent of music is meant to pursue it. This journey isn’t meant for everyone. But if you are one of the “chosen” ones, just remember it’s all a part of the process. It’s only preparing you for the exact moment you’ve worked for. So when you reach that spot you’ve aimed for, your experiences will mold you into the person that deserves it.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I make hip-hop and R&B music. I rap extremely well, no matter the topic, tempo, or situation. I’m more known for my series “Phone Calls” which straddles the lines between hip-hop and R&B gracefully and affectionately. But truthfully, I just love to make music. I view myself as the Kobe Bryant of my craft, and for good reason. Most artist these days just view music as a way to never have to get a job (and boy they got a surprise waiting) and don’t even care about the actual art. They get on stage with zero ability to perform or captivate a crowd, they release music with low-effort and little to no content, it’s like they have no connection to the culture and craft that has given us so much in our lifetimes. We barely even see artists doing things for their fans anymore. No super remixes, no mixtapes like Wayne and Fab used to release. Just the bare minimum. Then there’s me, just like “The Black Mamba” watching his teammates arrive late to practice and leave as soon as it ends, just disappointed in the lack of appreciation for such a gift. But the difference is, I’m more than happy to use and showcase mine any chance I get, because I know I’m great at it no matter my surroundings.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
I’d like to thank my family for supporting and being there for me along this ride. Shoutout to my “FlourishFam” for all the love, support, and words of encouragement. I’d like to thank my son for being my motivation to work hard and take no days for granted. I’d like to thank my manager Joshua Thompson for standing behind me confidently and bringing all that he can to the table with each opportunity. I’d like to thank a man that I could never forget, someone who came into my life randomly and became a brother, my late friend Kevin Lenzy for being one of the first to believe in my ability beyond a hobby. And lastly, shoutout to MYSELF, for pushing through all obstacles and tedious moments to continue to grow and succeed.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://deshaunjay.bandzoogle.com/home
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deshaunjayfrvr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.d.smith.5/
- Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/deshaunjayfrvr
- Other: https://linktr.ee/deshaunjay
