Most conversations about Jersey Hip-Hop include the artists from “up north” that move in the same circles as their NYC counterparts and the newer crop of “Down the Shore” artists that have risen from places like Asbury Park and Red Bank. Unfortunately, the state’s capital is left out of most of these conversations….until now!
Krush Jackson has been making noise in Trenton for the last few years with a unique sound, quality live performances and a constantly growing following. NJ Next’s Angelo Gingerelli got to catch up with Krush and see what’s good in the western part of the state…
Where are you from and who are your earliest musical influences?
I’m from Jersey, born in Paterson. Mostly raised in west Trenton…been here since 2001. I would def say Dipset. The first official album I bought was Diplomatic Immunity.
When do you go from fan to artist? What do your earliest recordings sound like? Can we hear them anywhere?
My first lyrics were written in sixth grade, the teacher found my notebook and told my mom I needed to see a counselor (laughs). She said I was angry and used aggressive language.
I continued to freestyle and play around, but took it seriously when I met my right hand man K. Huss. He was into music heavy already at that point.
My early recordings sound horrible (laughs) but practice make perfect. A few are still available on SoundCloud and Youtube.
How would you describe your city’s music scene? What’s the best way for an artist to make a name there?
In Trenton lots of people are doing music, but there aren’t many showcases and battles inside the city. In order to make it here be really creative, have great quality and be dedicated.
What do you have coming up in the immediate future?
I have some shows lined up in North Jersey, Philly and NYC. I’m looking to release a mixtape in the summer called Hell in the Town with my partner Mitchy 2x (WE ARE THE DREAMTEAM).
For daily updates you can follow Krush on Instagram @Krush_jackson
Five Rapid Fire Questions
Because I feel obligated to ask every rapper this question, who are your “Top 5: Dead or Alive”?
Fabolous
50 Cent
Jadakiss
Jay-Z
Krush Jackson (laughs)
Who are your top 4 rappers right now?
K. Huss
Mitchy 2x
Dave East
Tsu Surf
If you could work with any 3 producers on your next project (money is no object) who do you pick?
Rob Zombie
Jahlil
Dr. Dre
What 2 albums do you currently have in heavy rotation?
Tsu Surf – 2am
Fabolous & Jadakiss – Friday on Elm Street
Give us 1 reason everybody should check out Krush Jackson…
Krush Jackson is definitely different. I have an old soul with a new flow. I give lyrics, wordplay, aggression and performance. I’m the complete deal and make great music.
Just Dropped
Chris Rockwell – Ten Years in the Breaking
If 2016’s Rockwell Rebel Radio was the party, this follow-up LP is what’s left when the lights come on, the guests go home and the host is left to clean up the mess. Rockwell calls the project “Emo Rap” and with eight songs that all deal with love, loss, regret, loneliness and the other baggage that goes along with trying to maintain relationships while being an artist, the description fits perfectly as one of the Jersey Shore’s most prolific artists proves that “it’s darkest just beyond the spotlight.” Available on Bandcamp, Spotify and most streaming services.
Dane The Beautiful Monster (DBM) – “Slow Money”
On the first single from Dane’s next project the veteran MC takes listeners into the mindset of a working class artist that’s not afraid to talk about the toll following his dreams has taken on himself and his family. The track is available on SoundCloud and the full project should be out soon.
