Introducing JU-Neek [Singer/Songwriter & Composer/Producer (Rap/Spoken Word – R&B/Soul/Folk/Pop)] and his new album
“UP-Beat Nation (LP)” —
Expressions that serve to impart positivity and appreciation for God, Life, True Love, Food, Good Times and – of course – Music.
Enjoy songs that tell the truth and inspire to go on despite challenges in life.
Be built up and keep it UP-Beat!
Where are you from?
Munich – Germany [my parents are from Istanbul (Dad) and Izmir (Mom) – Türkiye]
How long have you been making music?
Since 1999/2000
How many songs /albums have you released to date?
28 songs (1 EP and 2 LPs)
Can you tell us about your latest release and the background and inspirations behind it?
UP-Beat Nation (LP) is a concept album: it reflects what we have experienced since 2020 with CoVid-19, but it also emphasizes to focus on a bright future promised by our Creator and God Almighty. It brings back vibes of the early 90s and indicates how important it is to see the good and positive in life, to enjoy life as much as possible, and to be there for others, especially family.
How have you ended up in the music industry?
My wife encouraged me to publish my songs, so I started producing, recording, mixing and mastering – all self-taught – and distributing via a Publishing company.
What do you think of the present music industry?
The music industry is alive and vibrant as never before. I have to say though, personally, a lot changed: quality of music and lyrics are not as highly regarded as they used to be. A lot of folks fell in a deep depression due to CoVid-19, the restrictions it brought with it as well the devastation of losing loved ones in death without the chance of – in most cases- saying goodbye. While everyone tries to lead a “normal” life today, the music industry reflects often exactly the opposite (an extravagant life-style, where anyone can achieve anything and possess everything they want).
Who do you think the most influential artist?
I think it has been Michael Jackson.
Who have you collaborated with so far in your career?
My twin brother, a group or two when I lived in Munich (both underground cats).
How do you think you differ from other artists?
I try to brink back the originality of R.A.P. (Rhythm And Poetry) as well as Soul/R&B. Since my background is Turkish, I want to expand that side of me more musically and lyrically, just like in this song (Sincerely Yours/Saygilarimla)
Dead or alive, who would be your dream collaboration?
LL Cool J, Q-Tip, Nas
What was the first album you bought?
Space Jam OST (1996)
What’s your favourite song at the moment?
Too many to count
If you had to sell your music collection tomorrow, what album would you leave in your draw?
Space Jam OST
What is your favourite saying?
If you feel it – let it flow, if not – let it go! by J-Majesty aka JU-Neek 🙂
What other hobbies or interests do you have?
playing the guitar, singing, writing lyrics, watching shows/movies, riding my bike
Do you have any tattoos or piercings?
no
Tell us more about your upcoming project or this new project?
This track is Turkish Rap/Turkish Pop and English/Turkish Hip Hop. It includes one phrase in Swahili as well, and some words in German. It is a reflection of both mine and my twin’s (MC Don-E) combined experience in the last 15 years in Munich/Germany, Istanbul/Turkiye, Nairobi/Kenya, Dar es Salaam/Tanzania, Phoenix/Arizona – USA, and New York Metropolitan Area (New Jersey) – USA.
What’s in the pipeline after this project?
We shall see. More good music, for sure!
Thank you for your time and may you carry on making great, fresh music.
Thanks so much and please: listen to music to enjoy so it can do what it does best – calm us, educate us, entertain us and comfort us.
Additional Questions & Answers
NA
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