Meet itzjboii | Audio Engineer / Artist

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

Hi itzjboii, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
Baton Rouge, that’s where my roots are. Lost both my folks way too young, though. Rough times, man. But that’s where my sister Tasha stepped up. Strongest woman I know, raised me like her own. Moved us down to Baytown, Texas, and that’s where I truly found my voice. Graduated Baytown Sterling, even went on to college for a bit. Gotta give props to Tasha for pushing me on that, even when music was all I could think about. Since middle school my room was always the studio

See, music’s always been in my blood. Mama was a powerhouse singer, belted it out in a professional choir. And get this, my great granddad? Clarence “Gatemouth” Brown himself! Yeah, legend. So you could say the industry was waiting for me eventually, you know?

My upbringing, wasn’t all sunshine and soul music. Not too big on giving too much detail on the first interview. Tasha, she showed me tough love., and she didn’t play. Let me tell you it built me different. Pushed me to be my best, even when I wanted to slack. And let me tell you, it made me who I am today. I give 110% to everything I touch, because that’s what it took to get by. That’s what it takes to chase a dream when the world throws curveballs your way.

That’s the fire in my music, the struggle and the pain. Maybe that’s why people connect with it. Because greatness ain’t handed to you, you gotta fight for it, claw your way to the top. And that’s exactly what Phoenix is gonna do. Be the greatest at anything I touch. Watch me.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
First off, I gotta say, I’m proud, man. Proud to finally be getting the recognition I deserve.This game can be rough, a lot of talented folks out there, but there’s something different about what I bring.Emotions raw and unfiltered. It’s the sound of the streets, the heartbeat of the underdog, but with this fire, this ambition to rise above. That’s what sets me apart. Is It that realness, that struggle woven into the rhymes? still trying to figure that part out but its something but hey you like it i LOVE it .

It wasn’t easy getting here, though. Took a lot of bad deals, a lot of “I told you so’s” to get my voice heard. But listen, the key is hard work, man. Relentless hustle, grindin’ every single day. And let me tell you, networking is everything. Building relationships with the right people, learning from the OG’s in the game. There is no cheat code, this is all sweat, dedication, and more than few sleepless nights in the studio.

There were times, for sure, when I wanted to throw in the towel. Every move felt like an uphill battle. But then I found my lane, you know? The sound that spoke the message that resonated with the crowd. That’s what kept me going, that fire in the belly.

Biggest lesson learned? Watch the company you keep. Not everyone in this industry has your best interests at heart. Gotta surround yourself with positive people, those who believe in you and push you to be your best. Fake friends and negativity? Leave that at the door.

Here’s what I want the world to know: Itzjboii is not just a rapper, i’m not,. I’m a farther, I’m the role model, im Mr. figure it out.This is a story of struggle and triumph, of chasing a dream with everything you got. My music is a reflection of that journey, the good, the bad, the everything-in-between. It’s about chasing greatness, and inspiring others to do the same. So tune in, feel the vibe, and let’s get ready to take this thing to the top. This is just the beginning, trust me. The BIGGEST is yet to come.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Day 1: Get Acclimated and Catch a Show

Morning: We’d start the day with a classic Houston breakfast at The Breakfast Klub. These pancakes are a true Texas treat, EVERYTHING IS GOOD!! they’re all delicious.

Afternoon: After breakfast, we’d head down to the Houston Museum District to check out some of the world-class museums. There are museums for all interests, from art and history to science and nature. We’d definitely hit up the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, which has a huge collection of art from around the world. If they’re more into natural wonders, the Houston Museum of Natural Science is a great option. They have a giant dinosaur exhibit that’s always a crowd-pleaser.

Night: In the evening, we’d grab some dinner in Midtown and then bar hop there’s always something going on from Westheimer to Washington just pick your flavor

Day 2: Space Center and Sunset Strolling

Morning: On day two, we’d make the trip out to see the crown jewel of Houston, the Space Center Houston. This is a must-see for any space enthusiast, and it’s a great place to learn about the history of space exploration. We’d take a tram tour of the Johnson Space Center, see the iconic Starship mockup, and even experience what it’s like to be launched into space in a realistic simulator ride.

Afternoon: After the Space Center, we’d head back into town and check out the Houston Farmers Market or Cajun Meat Market i can get down in the kitchen. This is a great place to find fresh produce, local crafts, and delicious food trucks.

Night: In the evening, we’d take a stroll through Discovery Green, a beautiful urban park in the heart of downtown. There’s always something going on in Discovery Green, from concerts and movies to yoga classes and art exhibits. I almost forgot scooooooters

Dinner: For dinner, we’d head to the trendy Washington Avenue area and enjoy some upscale Tex-Mex at Xochi. i just put yall on low key

Day 3: Get Cultured and Catch a Game

Morning: On day three, we’d visit the Menil Collection, a museum that houses a stunning collection of modern art. The building itself is a work of art, designed by renowned architect Renzo Piano.

Afternoon: In the afternoon, we’d take a walk through Hermann Park. This park is home to the Houston Zoo, the McGovern Centennial Gardens and the Japanese Garden.,which is dope don’t feed the koi fish you will get caught

Night: In the evening, we’d catch a baseball game at Minute Maid Park, home of the Houston Astros. Even if you’re not a huge baseball fan, the atmosphere at Minute Maid Park is electric, and it’s a great way to experience Houston culture.

Day 4: Shopping Spree and Street Art

Morning: On day four, we’d do some shopping at the Galleria, a massive upscale mall with over 700 stores. The Galleria is a great place to find everything from luxury brands to high-street favorites. Saks know me by my real and rap name s/o Johnny on the mens sales floor

Afternoon: In the afternoon, we’d take a walk through the vibrant Montrose neighborhood. Montrose is known for its art scene, and there are tons of great galleries and street art murals to check out.all the HypeBeast clothing is in this area iykyk

Night: For dinner, we’d head to Eado and enjoy some delicious Italian food at Luigi’s Restaurant. or Just go to Truck Yard

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
This journey wouldn’t be here without a whole crew behind me. Big shoutout to the fam, first and foremost. You already heard about my superhero sis, Tasha, but gotta show some major love to my girl, India, right here. She saw the vision from the jump, rode shotgun through every struggle, you feel me? From the studio grind to the emotional rollercoaster, she’s been there, running the business side, opening doors that were once slammed shut. We almost there, baby, but this wouldn’t be possible without you. SERIOUSLY.. Love you to the moon and back.

Speaking of studios, upmost respect to all the spots that held me down and helped me hone my craft. From Trackworld ,to The Pharmacy, 281 Studios, and even the Watche Studios out in LA. Sorry if i forgot anyone.You guys gave me the space to experiment, find my sound, and learn from the best. Much appreciated. I Can’t forget my own studio The BIGGEST
BOBMG “Big on Big Music Group” or BIG for short and it stands for ” Believe In Greatness”. It’s more than a catchy name, it’s the foundation. This studio is built on the belief in myself,my artist, even my clients the belief in the power of music, and the relentless grind that got US here. It’s a place where those beliefs can be poured into every track.

Also, a big big shoutout to MESA, the Music and Entertainment Students Association over at HCC. It’s an student lead organization that’s just dope and I’m more than happy to share my light with them they go as far as putting on showcases and Hosting Q&A panels with industry giants. For FREE. Those are game-changers Students. MESA also helped me connect with the right people and learn the ropes from the top dogs.

Let’s not forget the doubters, though. The folks who said I couldn’t do it. Honestly, they kinda fueled the fire. Used their negativity as motivation to push harder, prove them wrong. So, in a weird way, thanks for the extra kick in the you-know-what.

At the end of the day, this whole thing is about the journey, the people you meet along the way. This shoutout is for all those who believed, supported, and even doubted. It all plays a part in making Itzjboii who he is today. Stay tuned, ’cause the best is yet to come!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itzjboii/?hl=en

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ItzJboii

Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0ZTRO5gYjcdz9ZzGgr5Beq https://music.apple.com/us/artist/itzjboii/1410170590

Image Credits
Stephen “Hizzyinc” House