What’s your stage name and where are you from?
My artist name is Jordan Mac, and I am from Rockford, Illinois.
What’s the story behind your stage name?
Jordan is actually my middle name, and Mac is to pay homage to Mac Miller. My dad made my first and last name the same as his but changed my middle name to Jordan because I was born on the 23rd. He passed away, so in a way, Jordan is for him.
Describe your musical journey in three sentences.
I started writing raps when I was 8 years old, heavily inspired by Eminem and 50 Cent. It was my therapy, and I didn’t show many people until I was 22 when I got the equipment to start recording myself. I dove deep into production and engineering over the last 4 years, and I now feel ready to take it to the next level.
Share an interesting experience you had while creating your latest track.
On “Ocean,” I originally had a session with a producer, but he bailed at the last minute. So, I said F*** it, I’ll do it myself! I produced, freestyled, mixed, and mastered the entire song, and it’s the last track on my EP.
What message do you want to convey through your music?
I want to inspire people to break through and become their best version by believing in themselves, the way my idols inspired me when I was going through tough times.
Tell us about a challenge you faced during production and how you overcame it.
I mainly produce and mix/master everything myself without a mentor, so I’ve faced almost every challenge in Ableton and Pro Tools head-on. Trial and error, but the main thing that clicked for me lately is how to trust my ears and what to listen for.
If you could collaborate with any artist, who would it be and why?
Kid Cudi. He is one of my biggest influences, and it would be a dream come true to meet and work with him.
Where do you see your music taking you in the next year?
By next year, I see myself opening for larger artists, performing at colleges, meeting my idols, working with my idols’ producers, and finding my tribe and audience.
What’s the next big step for you as an artist?
Working with other producers to create my best music yet and learning from people who understand how the music industry works, instead of just sitting in my room working alone.
We occasionally feature artists on our Bird of Paradise Podcast for in-depth discussions. Would this be something you’re interested in exploring?
Yes, I would love to be on your podcast!
Are there any other promotional opportunities you’re looking for to boost your visibility?
I am looking for ways to reach as many people as possible with my music. If I could target fans of my idols like Kid Cudi, Mac Miller, J Cole, etc., I think they would love it.
Where can we hear/watch your most recent work?
My music is out everywhere you can listen to music, and I have an EP dropping soon that will be the first of many more.
What is the best way to contact you if fans want to give feedback or if other artists/producers want to collaborate?
DM me on IG @jordanmac815