If you haven’t heard of Jermaine Carter or “J Young MDK”, then go ahead and put him on your “Artist to Watch” list. A multi-talented rapper, singer, director, and actor, this guy does it all. Before he dove into the music industry, he was in a host of movies, television shows, and commercials. In 2019 he dropped his album “Now or Never” which was produced by Jamie Foxx. It generated over 100,000 streams in just the first week! If that didn’t impress you, J Young MDK was given the opportunity to perform at the Super Bowl after-party in Atlanta. On the film side, he has been seen in the short films “Wins and Losses”, and “Feds Did A Sweep”. He has also been recognized by the American Diabetes Association. Young took some time out to give us some insight into his world as a creative.
How does it feel to be recognized by the American Diabetes Association?
It feels great to be recognized by the American Diabetes Association. Using this platform, I hope to encourage others who are battling diabetes to manage the disease and live their most fulfilling and happy lives. I am excited to continue to be transparent with my diagnosis and I hope it inspires others to stay healthy and get checked!
How do you use your platform to help educate the black community?
I use my platform to spread awareness of financial literacy, teaching them to stay around like-minded individuals and to avoid drama be all costs. I also believe in addition to financial literacy; literacy is very important which is why I dedicate time to virtual reading sessions with the youth as well.
Have the recent issues of 2020 with COVID and police brutality affected you as an artist this year?
I believe 2020 has brought a lot of awareness to police brutality and more people than ever are saying “Black Lives Matter”. It has been a beautiful moment to see all walks of life come together this year to really bring more awareness to the unjust law system we have.
COVID has certainly made an impact on me as an artist. I had many shows lined up and performances that were canceled and many great financial earning opportunities On the flipside, COVID has inspired me to really be more creative, innovative and utilize the digital space as much as possible which birthed the 50/50 campaign where I released 50 songs in 50 weeks.
What’s your motivation and inspiration for your recent or past musical projects?
I’m all about trying to make history. I want to leave my mark on this earth. This year alone, I dropped two albums the same day, Aqua (R&B) & Black(Rap), released the 50/50 Campaign, dropped a third album, White (Alternative), became an American Diabetes Ambassador, and was featured in the holiday film, “The App That Stole Christmas.” My mentor Jamie Foxx continues to help me push boundaries and create my own lane in this industry.
One of your biggest supporters have been Artist/Actor Jamie Foxx, explain that experience and tell us how did this relationship come about?
I was cast as an extra on set for a movie and Jamie Foxx noticed me after seeing a resemblance to the late legends Tupac Shakur and Kobe Bryant. While on set, I got the opportunity to play my music for him. I performed, and he enjoyed my music and the rest is history.
In 2021 what can we look forward to seeing from you?
I am going harder in 2021 by creating more music, TV, and movie projects and the unexpected; diversifying my portfolio and business ventures, and creating more streams of income!
You starred in Meek Mills’s short film “Win and Losses”, how did this collaboration come about?
Spike Jordan and Malachi Lee, informed me about this project.
What sets you apart from other artists?
My drive, ambition, and strong work ethic! I am a true believer that I can achieve all of the impossible and beyond. I also have extreme diversity of music from Rock, Pop, Hip-Hop, and R&B. l am also funding all my projects and write all of my music as well.
Candace Green is a Birmingham, Alabama transplant by way of Washington DC. She enjoys reading, writing, cooking and eating amazing food, and Marvel movies. She is an author and blogger. You can follow her on IG: c_dog93.
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