Based in Los Angeles, CJ Stowklyn is the kind of artist who refuses to stay in a single lane. Whether he’s hitting the studio with heavy hitters like Matt OX and BigBabyGucci, or traversing the U.S. and U.K. on tour supporting Mark Battles, CJ is constantly pushing the boundaries of what an independent artist can be. But the vision goes deeper than just the music; between his acting work, a distinct style that blends high fashion with streetwear, and a genuine passion for humanitarian causes, CJ is building a whole world around his art. We managed to catch up with him for an exclusive interview to get the inside scoop on his journey and his high-energy latest single, “Go!”
Where are you from?
Born and raised in Arizona. I’ve been based in Los Angeles for the last few years, which definitely shaped my sound and perspective.
How long have you been making music?
Seriously? About 9 years. I started young and never really stopped, it just evolved from passion to purpose.
How many songs /albums have you released to date?
I’ve recorded a couple hundred songs throughout my career and have released numerous singles, collaborations, and projects across major streaming platforms.
Can you tell us about your latest release and the background and inspirations behind it?
Go! is a high-energy, playful track centered around momentum, confidence, and creative freedom. The song captures the feeling of letting go of expectations and simply moving forward without hesitation. It’s fast, expressive, and intentionally fun, built to feel spontaneous rather than overthought. Lyrically and sonically, it leans into instinct, adrenaline, and the joy of creating without pressure. Rather than over-explaining itself, the record thrives on feeling and motion, encouraging listeners to tap into their own flow and keep moving forward. The inspiration came from a place of pure enjoyment and creative freedom. I was having fun making the record and paying a subtle homage to 2hollis, who I saw perform a couple of months ago. That raw, confident, and unfiltered energy directly influenced the spirit of Go!.
How did you first get into music, and what inspired you to pursue a career in it?
Music was always around me. At first it was curiosity, then it became a way to process emotions I couldn’t explain. Once I realized people connected to it, that flipped a switch
What do you think of the present music industry?
It’s wild. More accessible than ever but also more crowded. You really have to stand on identity now, clout fades, authenticity lasts.
Who are some of your biggest musical influences and how have they impacted your music?
Artists who weren’t afraid to bend rules, Kanye, Travis Scott, Kid Cudi, Future, even Pharrell. They taught me that sound, visuals, and world-building all matter.
What have been some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced as a musician and how have you overcome them?
Patience and self-belief. There were moments where progress felt invisible. I got through it by staying consistent and trusting my long game.
How has your music evolved over the course of your career, and where do you see it going in the future?
Early on it was raw instinct. Now it’s intentional, cleaner, deeper, more confident. Moving forward, I want the music to feel timeless, not trendy.
Who have you collaborated with so far in your career?
I’ve worked with artists and producers like Scott Storch, Rockie Fresh, Wifisfuneral, BigBabyGucci, Matt Ox, famous Dex and more. Each collab taught me something different.
Can you describe your creative process and what goes into making a song or album?
It usually starts with a feeling, not a plan. I build from emotion first, then structure later. I like letting songs breathe before forcing them into shape.
Dead or alive, who would be your dream collaboration?
Kanye West. No question. The way he thinks beyond music still inspires me.
What was the first album you bought?
Honestly, probably something hip-hop I wore out completely early Kanye or 50 Cent era iTunes purchases.
What’s your favorite song at the moment?
80 percent of life is just showing up
If you had to sell your music collection tomorrow, what album would you leave in your draw?
DONDA . That album never stops hitting.
What is your favourite saying?
80 percent of life is just showing up
What other hobbies or interests do you have?
Fashion, visual art, and anything that pushes creativity forward.
Tell us more about your upcoming project or this new project?
This project is about a cyber era. It’s personal but elevated, sharper production, stronger concepts, and more intention behind every record.
What’s in the pipeline after this project?
More visuals, more collaborations, and bigger moves. I’m focused on building something that lasts, not just dropping songs.
Thank you for your time and may you carry on making great, fresh music. *
Thank you, I really appreciate the kind words. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed our conversation and I’m leaving here even more inspired. Thanks again for the opportunity, and I hope we speak again soon.
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