Native Brooklynite, Jimmy Heights, is making a b-line towards the front of the new school movement taking place ion the NYC scene. After a solid listen to his first mixtape, “Don Quixote,” and his latest mixtape, “Black AmeriKKKa,” it’s clear to see he goes over and above the booty and bling, delivering sociopolitical messages to his listeners. Jimmy Heights is establishing himself at the head of the young hip hop class, and demonstrating that he’s a force to be reckoned with; get to know Jimmy, below, as he takes our world-famous AAHIPHOP Q&A
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4nzHeBPSM5I
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IW9PTFvTTeU
How did you get involved in hip-hop?
Believe it or not, the first hip-hop song I ever heard came from Bow Wow. I just remember getting ready for school and the song played on the TV. I was probably like 5, and I was only used to soca that my parents played around in the house or Michael Jackson, who was my favorite artist at the time. Ever since that day, I followed hip hop closely. Starting off with Bow Wow and my love elevated even more after 50 Cent debuted. I was about nine at that time. He made me love the art of hip-hop.
Who were some of your influences?
I’m influenced by just about everything. Growing up my biggest influences were 50 Cent and Kanye West even though my style was pretty different from both. These days, I got a lot of Young Thug in my playlist along with plenty other of these young artists out here. I just gain influence from everyone or personal experiences. I might like the way a certain Lupe Fiasco beat sound along with the cadences of a Lil Durk hook. I listen to just about everyone’s music which in turn just betters the product I’m trying to put out.
Tell me about your music – what are you currently working on?
I’m still working on my first EP, “Skinny Dippin’ With Naked B*tches in Poland”. I have a video that I recently recorded that’s supposed to drop next week called “Potent” featuring my boy Ravage Roc. I got a lot in store. I’ve been writing every day. A lot of work in the arsenal. I’d love to release a new video every month. So we’ll see what happens.
How would you describe your sound?
My sound is refreshing, harmonic, melodic, emotional, ravishing and raw. I might be one of the few young guys that can put a hook together but also keep it “lyrical”. I try to cater to both sides of hip hop fans. The ones that like to sing along to the hooks and the fans that decipher each and every word in the verse. Songs that could be played on the radio and in the club but also could be played when your alone and going thru it or just bumping.
What are your goals in the industry?
I don’t think I would want to be an artist forever. Probably have a good successful little run as an artist. In the latter years, I want to move around behind the scenes. Work with other artists songwriting, producing and all the other good stuff. Hopefully by my 40s, I could lead a successful entertainment company.
What do you want people to take away from you as an artist?
The works of a creative genius. I put a lot of work into my music and videos. Obviously, my budget isn’t huge for my whole idea to be put on a platter, but when I reach that platform appreciate my creativity and uniqueness. There’s not another Jimmy Heights.
Do you want to remain independent or sign to a major label?
Of course, I’d love to stay independent. With the way that the music industry is moving with all resources available to unsigned artists, it makes sense to stay independent. But if the right deal comes along that could set my family for life, it would be stupid and selfish to pass up on it.
