Inspired #223 - Jesswar

Fijan rapper Jesswar has just released her powerful debut EP ‘TROPIXX’ - she took a moment to talk to us about the inspirations behind her music. 

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Who are your top three musical inspirations?
Kendrick Lamar - I love the way Kendrick tells stories. For many years he’s made art that constantly steps up from his last project. I really admire growth in an artist and when you can see it in every project it’s special because as a listener you feel as If you were on the journey with them from the start.
Lauryn Hill - She is the GOAT! A phenomenal talent that is so versatile with her artistry! I love that she can do it all.
Missy Elliot - I love everything about missy. She’s an Icon! Growing up, her music videos we’re an escape for me. I love her vision and sound.

Is there a certain film that inspires you?
I love Jurassic park! That series is crazy.

What city do you find the most inspiring?
The most inspiring place to me right now is where I currently live, on Yugambeh country / The Gold Coast. This place has one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world! There’s also a big hinterland of rainforests that are accessible. It’s a really special place and being around this much nature and ocean is calming.

Who is the most inspiring person to you?
I would say the most inspiring person to me right now would be my mum. She’s incredible and I’ve seen her go through brutal things in life but she always picks herself back up every time. I admire that in her. She’s powerful. She always told me I can be whoever I want to be.

What were your inspirations when writing your new EP?
I used my own experiences as inspiration for Tropixx. When writing this project I was going through a rough time in my life but creating Tropixx gave me that power I needed to keep going and stick it out.

How would you like to inspire people?
I hope people can find what they need in my art. I hope it gives them power.

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