In the realm of R&B music, influential artists like Usher, Jodeci, and Ginuwine have significantly molded rising star J. Foster’s musical style and career. These icons inspired his writing style, cadence, and tone, serving as a blueprint for his success. Embracing songwriting from a young age, his first composition, “Notice Me,” was influenced by Chris Brown’s hit, “Yo (Excuse Me Miss).” J. Foster’s distinctive sound blends modern R&B with a 90s flavor, evoking passion and storytelling while avoiding sounding dated.
Can you tell us more about your early influences in R&B music, such as Usher, Jodeci, and Ginuwine? How have these artists shaped your musical style and career?
These artists had a huge impact on me developing my writing style, as well as my cadence and tone. I still find myself going back and listening to their music for inspiration. People who listen to my music often say I sound like Usher. He has had a huge impact on the way I create music. By studying my influences, I was given the blueprint of what it takes to succeed as an R&B artist.
Your journey into songwriting began at a young age. What inspired your first song, “Notice Me,” and how did it feel to realize you were onto something special with your music?
My inspiration behind “Notice Me” was Chris Brown’s song “Yo (Excuse Me Miss)”. I remember hearing the song when it first came out and thinking to myself “Man it would be so dope if I wrote something like that”. Later that day I decided to grab my pen and notebook and began writing what would then become “Notice Me”. This was the lightbulb moment where I discovered my gift for songwriting. It was an overwhelming feeling of joy to know I could creatively tell a story through lyrics.
You’ve described your sound as “Modern R&B with a dash of 90s R&B flavor.” Can you elaborate on how you incorporate elements of 90s R&B into your music, and what sets your style apart in the contemporary music scene?
I channel that passion, emotion, and energy from 90s R&B in my music. I want the listener to feel what I feel when they listen to my music. It also includes the storytelling element as well, taking the listener on a journey. It’s important to maintain the essence of what makes 90s R&B music so great but not sounding dated either. I think what sets my style apart is that my sound isn’t like the current state of R&B. I’m singing over 808s but still singing with that same 90s R&B flare. Naturally, I stand out because it gives off a vintage R&B sound.
Your career has seen some notable achievements, including performing at SXSW and getting a sync placement on the TV show “Nashville.” Can you share some insights into the challenges and memorable moments you’ve experienced while building your music career?
Performing at SXSW for the first time was an amazing moment for sure. It was so great to connect with other artists and build new fans. The only downside I faced was technical difficulties. It was tough to navigate through that but I treated it as a learning lesson. The sync placement on “Nashville” was very spontaneous which made it that much more special. I didn’t see this coming at all, looking back the only thing I would have changed was just capitalizing more on the moment.
In your journey as a recording artist, what lessons have you learned about song structure and the art of songwriting? Could you provide some advice for aspiring artists looking to develop their own songwriting skills?
I’ve learned that the best songs come from real-life situations. If you’re lacking inspiration go live life some more. Don’t overthink the process, just write what you feel and let the rest happen. The advice I would give is to listen to as much music in your genre as possible. You can gain a lot of inspiration and ideas by listening to other artists. It’s a great way to keep your pulse on where the industry is heading too. Also, collaboration is key, get around other writers that you can study and learn from.
What’s next for you?
I’m currently doing a lot of creating and experimenting with different sounds. I plan to release a series of singles over the next few months along with visual content. This upcoming spring, I plan to release an EP as well. I’m also planning out a few shows in between. Follow me @itsjfoster to stay tuned for everything I’m working on.
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