Meet Elijah Jackson | Producer & Emcee, 1/3 of LXi Music Group

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

Hi Elijah, any advice for those thinking about whether to keep going or to give up?
This may sound cliché, but doing it for the love is what keeps me going. Knowing that at the end of the day I’m continuing to perfect my craft, constantly striving to learn, is what makes it hard for me to give up.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’ve been making music and performing in some capacity since the 6th grade. I wrote my first rhyme in the back of my teacher Ms. McClain’s class, and it’s been history ever since. My Father made sure that I was exposed to a variety of music, and having grown up during the 60s and 70s, he made sure that me and my sister were exposed to all types of music. I’m a drummer at the core, and I performed in my high school’s marching band, and even did so during my freshman year of college at East Carolina University. So music has always been there. The desire to perform has always been there.

Me and my fellow LXi Music Group brother EP3, decided we’d form a group just shortly after we graduated college. We started our group called The Spitzwell Brotherz (TSB for short), and released five mixtapes between 2009 – 2013. That entire experience taught me so much, but at the core was just loving the art and creating some memorable music with my best friend.

The art of producing and beat making was something I’ve always admired, but didn’t really jump full force into until four years ago. I’m a product of Dilla, Q-Tip, Kanye, 9th Wonder, Pharrell, Rza and a slew of other producers who influenced and paved the way for sample based production.

LXi Music Group, is the rebrand that me and EP3 needed, after having our share of successes as TSB. Being in our 30s, we needed to find a way to take things to the next level, without compromising the integrity of our creative process. Bringing in Antonio Newton (Jeez Louize) for the ride was the missing element. Jeez brings a very unique approach to songwriting and producing as well!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Raleigh is an amazing city. Constantly growing too. I’ve lived in the area for about four years now, and am constantly finding out about new spots to try. If you’re ever here check out The Pour House in downtown Raleigh. Its a music hall, record shop, and draft house specializing in some of the best craft beer in the area. You’ve definitely got to check out Morgan Street Food Hall, if you’re into a wide variety of food truck style cooking, from vendors specializing in all sorts of cuisines. Drive Shack is always a good time, if you’re into driving ranges, good food, and great drinks!

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?
I’d like to recognize a few people. My wife for constantly pushing and supporting me through my creative endeavors. I’d also like to shoutout my fellow LXi Music Group brothers/founders Ernest Pharr III (EP3) & Antonio Newton (Jeez Louize).

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