Formula Indie Sessions _ Interview with IRAHJON

I’m an indie hip-hop artist that goes by IRAHJON. I was born in the mid-west but raised in the southern part of the US. My music is very versatile and introspective. First and foremost “keep your tenacity strong” is what I always say.

What is your earliest memory connected to music?

When I was about 5 or 6 I would constantly hear Michael Jackson being played in the living room downstairs of our apartment by my uncle. He would play it on the stereo and just leave it on repeat. MJ was the first artist I was like , “who is that?”

How did your passion for creating music begin?

When I was very young my uncle brought me to a studio in his friend’s basement. They were recording hip-hop but it had all the works. Sound board, drums, guitars, etc. The experience came complete with adult material plastered on every wall. I had already started writing but after that night I wanted to learn how to actually produce some music.

What’s the story behind your current music project?

My latest single “HUAB” is just a high energy reminder of my demeanor to my current music family as well as any new members. Everything in the past present and future will circle back to keeping one’s tenacity strong. I may include it on my next ep.

How would you describe your sound to someone who has never heard your music before?

I consider my music to be alternative hip-hop/rap. I mostly lay bars, but as a fan of music as a whole, sometimes, I may do something different. One thing it’s not is repetitive. No two singles of mine sound similar in vibe or cadence. There’s also a variety of sound in my music as a whole. It has a flexible vibe.

What is one thing you’ve learned that completely changed the way you make music?

No matter how many or few, people are listening. Your words have power.

What tools, instruments, or software are essential in your creative process?

I had a whole set up as far a midi instruments a while back when I spent time creating my own beats. Since I’ve stopped doing that I just use software and a variety of microphones. Smoking a fat one used to always get me in my zone to write, create, and record but now what gets me going is if something happens that impacts me in my day to day. Just realizing and being grateful for the day inspires my process most, currently.

Which indie artist or song are you loving right now?

I’ve been listening to “Sonreal” and “Noa Bar” as of late.

How have your personal experiences influenced your music and artistic vision?

Seeing the stereo typical life associated with the main genre of music I create actually play out in real life has helped me learn how to shape my future otherwise wether it be drastic or subtle. I try to make “the life” known without necessarily glorifying it and how to evolve through it.

What emotions or messages do you hope listeners take from your work?

The main message is to “Keep Your Tenacity Strong” . Fall down? Get up. If you go out, go out with a bang.

What’s the most important lesson music has taught you so far?

Everyone is listening. Use your voice.

What is a dream venue or festival you would love to perform at?

I want to sell out Red Rocks.

If you could collaborate with any artist, past or present, who would it be and why?

Lupe Fiasco. He’s a forgoten genius.

Where can our listeners follow and support your music?

Everything can be found at www.irahjon.com “IRAHJON” on all platforms.

Looking toward the future, what’s your dream for the next chapter of your musical journey?

I would actually like to join a collective but for now I’m just pushing to expand my reach to those who would enjoy my music.