Artist Interview: Choppa J
Choppa J is carving out a distinctive space in the music world with his unique blend of cloud rap and R&B, using his art as a mirror to his life experiences. Rooted in the Southern rap tradition and influenced by his community in Forrest City, Arkansas, Choppa J channels vulnerability and introspection into his songs, creating a deeply personal connection with listeners. His journey reflects not only artistic growth but also the power of self-expression and resilience, as he takes full control of his creative process. With a rising fanbase and a clear vision for the future, Choppa J is an inspiring voice emerging from Arkansas’s evolving hip-hop scene.
Tori: For those who aren't familiar with your music yet, how would you describe your sound and the story you're telling through it?
C.J.: My sound is cloud rap mixed with R&B and I basically use my music as an outlet to express what's going on in my life.
Tori: How has Forrest City influenced your music and your journey as an artist?
C.J.: Being from the south, I've grown up listening to rap music. I also have many friends and cousins from Forrest City that rap as well.
Tori: As an artist who prioritizes authenticity, what is the most difficult or vulnerable topic you've ever put into a song?
C.J.: My life struggles which I expressed in "My Pain Is Hiding Through."
Tori: Tracks like "My Pain Is Hiding Through" and "Think About It" suggest a deep level of introspection. What drives you to explore these personal and emotional themes in your music?
C.J.: When I'm in my own space, I use my music as an outlet for self-expression. My creativity helps me to be able to release my emotions and reflect on what I've got going on in my life through my lyrics.
Tori: You've been producing all of your music on BandLab. What's it like to have full creative control over your sound, from the beat to the final mix?
C.J.: I enjoy it because I'm able to be myself more and tailor my sound to my own preferences instead of being under the control of a producer.
Tori: What was the biggest challenge you faced when you first started producing your own music, and how did you overcome it?
C.J.: Trying to be able to mix and master my vocals. I overcame it by learning a lot through YouTube and learning to not stress too much.
Tori: With almost 2,000 listeners on Spotify, you're gaining momentum. What has this growth felt like, and what do you hope to achieve next?
C.J.: The growth feels amazing. It takes a lot of consistency to grow and I'm grateful for everyone who listens to my music.
Tori: Arkansas's music scene is often associated with country music. Do you feel like you're an outlier in your community, or do you see a growing hip-hop movement in the state?
C.J.: I see a growth in Arkansas hip-hop movement.
Tori: Who are some of the artists, both inside and outside of the hip-hop genre, that have inspired your unique style?
C.J.: Juice Wrld, Travis Scott, Drake, and Chris Brown.
Tori: What advice would you give to other aspiring artists who might be struggling to stay true to their vision?
C.J.: Keep going. If the path you're going feels right to you, go that path. Don't listen to the haters and be your own biggest fan. If you have negative thoughts and don't cheer yourself on, you won't make it.
Tori: What's the best piece of advice you've received so far in your career, and who gave it to you?
C.J.: A barber told me to keep chasing my dreams and don't give up. Consistency equals growth. When we slow down too much we head towards the path of giving up. Study your craft and continue to get better by working on it.
Tori: Besides music, what are some of the other creative outlets or hobbies that help you recharge and find inspiration?
C.J.: Basketball, video games, watching movies, and reading books.
Tori: You're committed to "making an impact and inspiring others." What message do you most want your listeners to take away from your music?
C.J.: I want my listeners to have a positive feeling after listening to my music. I want them to know that they are not alone in their struggles.
Tori: If you could collaborate with any artist, living or deceased, who would it be and why?
C.J.: Tupac because he's an influential rapper that brought different cultures around the world together and preached positivity.
Tori: What does the future look like for you, in five years or even ten years from now?
C.J.: Hopefully be a touring artist.
Tori: What's next for Choppa J after your January 2026 release "I Really Like"? Are you working on a new project or a new single that fans can look forward to?
C.J.: I'm currently working on a new single called "Next Time." The song will have a cloud rap mixed with R&B. Stay tuned for details.
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