Interview: Roc Kartel
Jabari Gibbons, professionally known as Roc Kartel is a Hip Hop Artist, Songwriter with a sound so unique he has the ability to demand the attention of listeners. Currently residing in Los Angeles the Prince George's County, Maryland native became popular in his hometown(DMV) for his 2014 local hit song 'Panama’ which received consistent spins and local buzz. Influenced by acts such as Michael Jackson, Dr. Dre, Bushwick Bill and many more he has managed to reach fans across the US. “I'm heavily influenced by those three names mainly because they were extremely creative and original like no other. MJ will leave you mind-fucked with his dancing and music, Dre will have you bumping heavy with his legendary album 'The Chronic’ his style of production and skits and the fact that you can only stream it on Apple Music makes it one of the greatest albums of all time, Bushwick will have you thinking deep plan and simple”
We had the pleasure of checking in with Roc and he was kind enough to respond to a few interview questions.
Hi Roc Kartel! Thanks for being here today!
Thanks for having me!
Is it harder to write or produce a song?
I will say it is harder to produce a song because I'm not a producer but if I wanted to push the envelope when I song write I could do that too but definitely harder to produce a song.
Do you ever experience writer's block? What do you do to get over it?
I do sometimes but mainly no because I'm always vibing to the production of the beat that I'm about to write to and I'm always creating on the go so when I do sit down to write it just naturally comes out
What is your musical background? Who or what got you into wanting to make music?
So I come from a music family. My grandfather is a DJ. My grandmother is into music. She dances, she loves music, my pops makes music, my sister makes music, my brother makes music, we all make music so I just naturally came into music.
What is your favorite thing about performing live shows?
The energy that is brought in the performance, going into like another atmosphere, while I'm performing and you know just entertaining people.
Do you have a favorite song to perform or that you are looking to performing?
My favorite song to perform is "Real Woman". I made that song back in 2017. It's just a vibe so I love to perform it.
What kind of music are you listening to right now?
I listen to damn near all kinds but mainly hip hop and reggae.
Do you listen to any podcasts that are related to music? If so, which ones?
Everyday, My favorites are:
The Music Industry Blueprint Podcast with Rick Barker
The Music Industry Podcast by Burstimo
Modern Music Marketing Podcast
The New Music Business with Ari Herstand
The Music Marketing Academy
The Business of Music Podcast from De Novo Agency
Do you like to collaborate with others? What is that process like?
Vibezzzzz, it’s a natural process
What is next for you?
I’m currently on a Street performance Tour and My New single “High Road” is next. Look out for it coming April.
Please tell our readers where they can follow you!
Follow me on IG: @Roc.Kartel
Have a listen and follow on social media:
