Meet J-Kline | Hip-Hop Artist, motivational speaker, and recovery advocate

We had the good fortune of connecting with J-Kline and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi J-Kline, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
For me it’s been about having a vision, drive, determination, discipline, and commitment. I’ve encountered so many struggles and downfalls and setbacks most of my life. Some things that unfortunately, some people don’t overcome or make it back from. Being able to rise above it and make it out, I had to have all of those qualities I listed to really become the man I am today and to continuously reach and accomplish these goals and dreams. I know what I want to be, who I want to be, and where I want to go, and I’ll do anything to reach that.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?

I’m a hip-hop artist from Battle Creek, MI and currently reside in Austin, TX. the last 10 years. I’ve been doing music since I was 14 years old, and professionally since 2019. This process has been far from easy. I’ve encountered a lot of setbacks both professionally and personally, but I have worked tremendously hard to bounce back, and have done so. Everything that I have been through is a part of my story and testimony. I use my musical outlet to get vulnerable and share my experiences with my audience and the world to hopefully provide some motivation and inspiration to the listeners who may be dealing with their own struggles. The lessons I have learned a long the way is to never give up and to always keep going. Envision what you want your life to be, and do whatever it takes to get there.

I’m currently working on my 2nd official studio album entitled, The Redemption Tape, slated to be released spring 2024, with the first single “Come Home” featuring Cella Black dropping in February. It’s all about overcoming problems, struggles, owning your past, recognizing your faults and learning and growing from them. My mission is to be a voice of hope, courage, and strength. That no matter you’re going through, you can make it out, you can bounce back, and it’s never too late.

What sets me a part is my passion. The listener is going to feel every song, every word, and every lyric. And my sole purpose is to uplift, inspire, and to help others reach their goals and dreams.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Austin, TX is full of amazing spots. Definitely taking them downtown to explore the city center, zilker park, the greenbelt, and Mt. Bonnel. And there’s no shortage of good food either! 2 of my favorite things are tacos and BBQ and there’s an endless number of spots to go to, and it’s really hard to just pick one! But definitely go on a food tour of them all!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Honestly. I would not be where I’m at today without the help of some amazing people a long the way. I got to give a huge shout out to Slade Skaggs, Teryn Scaff, Garrett Stewart, Scott Engle, Tyler Walker, and Connor Groom in particular. These people have guided me, gave me opportunities and chances, and been a source of inspiration of growth that enabled me to reach my goals and level of success I have achieved and continue to achieve. Also, the Austin, TX recovery community and the Austin Hip-Hop community as a whole have been vital as a form of support for myself. There’s so many people I could name. And I’m truly grateful for everyone that I have crossed paths with on this life journey.

Instagram: @OfficialJkline

Facebook: @OfficialJkline

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@officialjkline

Other: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/61BHscy2iBylZylAjUBjgA?si=9tv6u1FtQdyO6FovoXvuwg

Image Credits
Garrett Stewart of Pics By G Brock Camp – 626Capture