'5 Questions With': JJ Esko

Leicester raised rapper JJ Esko starts fires with his latest drop ‘WYNB’, and it’s one you don’t want to miss. With a boastful flow that rides over stabbing bass lines, it’s impossible to deny the heat this rising artist is exuding. Deeply influenced though personal experience, Esko spits what he’s lived through, and we’re here for the ride. ‘WYNB’ is a consistent, fiery follow-up to his previous releases ‘Man on a Mission’ and last year’s album drop ‘Deeper Than Rap’. He’s received critical acclaim from GRM DAILY, 800K streams on his tracks, on top of achieving 2m+ views on his videos – an undeniable achievement. The only direction is up for this Leicester Native, so don’t get left behind. We caught up with him for a quick Q&A, on his new release, motivation, and his undoubtedly bright future.

Read the feature below…

Words and interview by Elle Watson

EQ: Hey JJ, firstly tell us about yourself? What makes you tick?

JJ: I grew up in Leicester, Highfields, I’d say my life influences me and musically I’ve always liked UK rap so people like Rimzee, Potter Payper, Mover, I always listened to. I’ve always liked music from rapping on the corner or to rapping in jail. I put out my first song in December 2018 called ‘Winning’. Music and money keep me motivated. Love my fans.

EQ: You’ve been a self-professed rap fan for as long as you can remember, how did you make the jump to writing your own material? Was there something in particular that you’d describe as a ‘light bulb moment’?

JJ: I have been writing since I was a kid. When I was 15-16 I tried a thing (not taking it seriously). In 2018 is when I decided to turn it into a career. I put my first single out on GRM and that went crazy, therefore my following single ‘Opp Block’ was given a premiere and that blew up. So I would like to thank Saq and the team at GRM who have given me a platform to showcase my music. Geko rang me saying he thinks I’m cold and wants me to join him on tour. He’s a good guy he didn’t have to do that so always love to Geko.

Instagram: @jj_esko

“I rap what I live…I couldn’t speak about a life I don’t know.“

– JJ ESKO

EQ: ‘WYNB’ is straight fire, who or what was the inspiration behind the track? Is there an element of poetic license to your writing or is each and every word from personal experience?

JJ: Road, street life, what I know from personal experience. A lot has happened in two years so I’m excited to see what five years will bring. Yes, I rap what I live, I’ve been stabbed, been in and out of prison, lost loved ones, not had money, had money. I’ve got a lot to speak about. I couldn’t speak about a life I don’t know. I make all different kinds of music from street bangers to music about my life

EQ: Who or what keeps you grounded and motivated?

JJ: Five years from now I should be long gone out of the ends and successful with my music. A lot has happened in two years so I’m excited to see what five will bring, My fans and my older bro.

EQ: Finally, what’s coming up for you JJ? Could you let us in on an Equate exclusive?

JJ: My EP’s coming soon and a big collab. In five years I hope to have many number ones and a couple of worldwide tours under my belt. I’d also like to open a studio for the youngers in my area.

Watch ‘WYNB’ below:

YouTube/JJ ESKO

Keep up with JJ Esko on socials