I’m from LA, baby. Born and raised, 54th and Crenshaw type jawn. Raised right, so I know how to act anywhere I go… but my roots are from South LA.
So it’s no surprise, I get a little defensive when people say the problem with Los Angeles are the people. Clearly, they haven’t met real Los Angelelinos… (and I’m gonna go ahead and throw Pasadena, Gardena and the cities in between in that mix.)
Outside of hip-hop/rap music, LA doesn’t get a lot credit for being soulful or birthing “real” music.
Without being long-winded or anything, I just wanted to shout out a few artists, indy and established that can boast that authentic Los Angeles toe-tag.
JIMETTA ROSE: One of the baddest vocalist and songwriters of our day. Such an inspiration and a force on stage. The first time I’d ever seen her perform was at her album release for ‘The Barbers’ Daughter’ – me and my friends were mesmerized cus there’s not really anyone like her doing it like she does. We performed together at a random Sa-Ra show at The Roxy… She did most of the singing tho. Long story. Anyway, Jimetta is cool people too. Peep, this joint ‘Life Unfolds’ from her debut album.
BREEZY LOVEJOY: Drummer, vocalist and songwriter… the man is brilliant. We’ve played a few gigs together. I remember we both were playing different venues in Ventura around the corner from each other. On my break, I ran over to his gig and we jammed Monica’s ‘So Gone’ – priceless. Here’s his version of Coldplay’s ‘Sparks’ from the Coldtapes..
PAC DIV: I don’t know them or anything, but I love this song… and the video is a glorious homage to my city. They are thoroughly repping for the West Coast. Trust me!
LEGS: Dope emcee and guitarist. He performed a few times at a showcase I hosted called ‘Soul Loft’ a humble and organic dude with a brilliant message. Hoping we’ll collaborate one day soon.
MIGUEL: Last but not least is LA-native (actually, I think he’s from San Pedro… but I’ll give him a pass), Jive Recording artist, Miguel. He’s been signed and on the scene for a while now. I actually opened for Miguel back in 2009 (I think it was)… His voice just has some magic in it and I love his lyrics. Check out ‘Sure Thing’ below:
So that’s my quick shout out to hot LA artists. Stay tuned for more of my favorites!
ciao for now.
