What’s your stage name and where are you from?
My stage name is Dan Johns, and I’m from Florence, SC.
What’s the story behind your stage name?
It’s an abridged version of my real name, which is meant to imply that my artistic side is a part of me and a facade.
Describe your musical journey in three sentences.
I was a young boy fascinated with the culture during the peak of 80s hip hop. I started writing rhymes as a teenager, influenced by wordsmiths like Rakim, Nas, and Gza. My goal is to paint vivid pictures of my experiences in rhyme form for those who have grown up with hip hop like me.
Share an interesting experience you had while creating your latest track.
When I first heard Jah’s production, I immediately heard the first line of the hook, “God is Good and the sun is divine,” in my head. I laid an early draft of it, and Jah suggested that I turn it into more of a testimony than a repetitive phrase. It worked!
What message do you want to convey through your music?
Hip hop is ageless. Wordplay and technique don’t leave us as time passes. We should look to find common ground within the culture instead of reasons for division.
Tell us about a challenge you faced during production and how you overcame it.
Jah and I rarely encounter challenges during the creation process of our collaborations. The music is always organic and never feels forced. The toughest part for us is finding the right formula for how to share the music with the masses.
If you could collaborate with any artist, who would it be and why?
Phonte; he embodies the spirit of hip hop from the Carolinas.
Where do you see your music taking you in the next year?
I envision music introducing Dan Johns to hip hop fans around the world and connecting me with other artists.
What’s the next big step for you as an artist?
Continuing to release music on a consistent schedule without too much time passing between releases. Jah and I have more songs and an EP on the horizon.
We occasionally feature artists on our Bird of Paradise Podcast for in-depth discussions. Would this be something you’re interested in exploring?
Most definitely.
Are there any other promotional opportunities you’re looking for to boost your visibility?
Playlist placements, collaborations, contributing to compilations.
Where can we hear/watch your most recent work?
Danjohns.Bandcamp.com and jahfreeinthebeat.bandcamp.com
What is the best way to contact you if fans want to give feedback or if other artists/producers want to collaborate?
@danjohnny5 on IG and Twitter. Danjohns.bandcamp.com
