Meet Latoya J. | Recording Artist

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

Hi Latoya, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I didn’t pursue it, it pursued me. I didn’t come from a musical family. But as early as 6 years old, I can remember standing in my living in the Bronx; listening to Lisa Stansfield singing, “Been around the world and ay, yi, yi. I can’t find my baby”. I had a brush to my lips and knew this is what I wanted to do with my life. I’m music captive audience.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m a recording artist and songwriter. I hate to be locked into a genre although it’s necessary. I write about life from whatever perspective makes the most sense to me at the time so my music ranges from gospel to secular and includes, R-n-B, Rock, Pop, and EDM.

My unapologetic authenticity is what sets me apart. I have zero issue with existing in any world on my own terms. That is expressed in my choice of clothing, hair, sound and opinions.

I’m most proud that I didn’t quit. After being abused in multiple levels by multiple people; it would have been so easy to just roll over and die.

My idea of success is not built on stats or numbers; however I have touched quite a few lives. For me, that makes it all worth it. It wasn’t easy because before I can write my music, I have to live it. I have to relive it everytime I sing the song. There is a price to pay to touch lives but it is totally worth it. I think focusing on your why will keep you persevering through obstacles. Knowing who you are will also keep you locked in to becoming so you use the obstacles as change agents that will help you grow.

The music industry is a business and must be treated as such. You won’t get ahead without playing the game. If you do this for the love and the love alone, accept that you may never get to the top and that’s ok. Leaving a mark that could inspire someone else is plenty. You may never see it
but it’s legacy nonetheless.

I want the world to know that I loved people and that I allowed my life to be an open book so that others could find hope and a place they belonged. I wanted them to know they weren’t alone.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to Shout Out my team, Tanayshia Durant of Behind the Dream, LLC., Trevon James of Eleven Thirteen Group, and J.A.Z. of Zealous productions. My Pastor, Stanley Gorrrell and all my enemies who sow into my will to live to see the table that will be prepared before me.

Website: Iamlatoyaj.Bandcamp.com

Instagram: Iamlatoyaj

Twitter: LatoyaJ_Iam

Facebook: Latoya J.

Youtube: Iamlatoyaj

Other: Linktr.ee/iamlatoyaj

Image Credits
Trevon James Tijawan Obie Behind the Dream LLC.