Summer isn’t over for Grammy-nominated American singer and songwriter BJ The Chicago Kid. Following the reaction to previous singles “Forgot Your Name” featuring Cory Henry and “Liquor Store In The Sky” featuring Freddie Gibbs, he recently announced a new track, “Spend The Night”, featuring Disney-turned-R&B star Coco Jones. The feel-good single offers a glimpse into his upcoming multi-track project in collaboration with producer Yeti Beats, set to drop this fall.
Recorded with a live band in Memphis, Tennessee, the home of soul legend Al Green whose ‘70s mellow grooves served as inspiration for the album’s overall sound, the project will include features with big names such as Audra Day and Phillip Bailey of Earth Wind and Fire. Here, we sat down with BJ The Chicago Kid to understand more about his sonic references, musical upbringing, and partnership with Coco Jones.
Listen to the single…
Read the full interview…
Congratulations on your new single! Can you tell us a bit about the track and the story behind it?
Thank you! “Spend The Night” produced by Yeti Beats was actually the very last song added to the album. It truly was the missing piece.
How was working with Coco Jones? How do you think you complement each other’s artistry?
I loved working with Coco Jones. She is an incredible talent and honestly, one of the sweetest people in the industry. I knew she would be a perfect addition to the song!
How did you first get into music, and who were your earliest influences?
I grew up singing in the church. Many people might not know this but after moving to LA, my first major job in the industry was singing background for the legendary gospel group Mary Mary.
How do you approach the creative process when writing and producing your music?
When I am making music I damn near sleep in the studio. I really lock in, I feel like some of the best ideas come at the wee hours in the morning like 3am when everyone else is asleep.
Can you share a pivotal moment in your career that you think helped shape who you are as an artist today?
Honestly, I wouldn’t say there is one particular moment, more so a cluster of different moments that continue to shape me and the art I produce. Music is constantly changing and evolving and so am I.
How would you define your artistic essence today?
My artistic essence is all over the place. I am constantly pulling from my daily life, things I’ve seen in my past living in Chicago, my friends & family.
How do you think “Spend The Night” represents your musical evolution and what sets it apart from your previous work?
I think “Spend The Night” is an incredible addition to my discography and live shows because of the tempo and joy it brings to everyone that hears it. This whole project that Yeti and I created is experimental, so it’s definitely not what fans typically expect from me.
Speaking a bit about your forthcoming project with Yeti Beats, can you give us a sneak peek of what’s to come?
This album with Yeti Beats is entitled Gravy and it has some really dope features from Freddie Gibbs to Coco Jones and a couple that I can’t share just yet! Haha
Looking ahead, what are your aspirations and goals as a musician?
My aspiration as a man is far better than as a musician. I am at the stage in my life that I want to be better as a man and that continues to fuel my creativity. I am looking forward to intentionally releasing all this music I have stacked up on my hard drive because I know the people are ready for this new new!
Finally, what’s next for you in your musical journey, and what are you most looking forward to in the future?
I am going to continue to write & produce for other artists alongside my own music. Outside of music, I’m ready to purse acting & screen writing!