North London rapper, JD Cliffe, returns with his latest project, ‘Neon Jungle’.
The eight-track EP was released Friday 7th December with the lead track called, ‘Let it Rain’.
JD’s smooth, melodic flow has gained him great support over the last year; catching the eye of DJ Tim Westwood.
Not only has he shared the stage with Kojo Funds and Section Boyz, he got the chance to perform a Color Session alongside producer, Kai-A.
With almost 2.5 million subscribers, Color Sessions have hosted sessions with artists such as Mahalia, Jorja Smith and Not3s.
Over the past year, the 23-year-old has been causing a scene in the UK rap game and his latest single, ‘Five’ featuring Drey, was DJ Target’s ‘Unsigned Track of The Week on BBC Radio 1Xtra.
In an exclusive interview with CelebMix, JD lets us in on his past, present and where he hopes to be in the future.
Hey JD, so tell us a little bit about yourself.
I’m 23 years old. Grew up in North London and started writing music when I was 13. The first song I ever wrote was a grime track called, ‘JC you should know it’s me – it’s still on YouTube now.
So what inspired you to go into music?
When I first started rapping it was just a playground thing. During my school days, everyone used to have rap battles in the playground. What inspired me to do music properly and take it seriously was the reaction and feeling I got from people when they listened to my music. I always got positive feedback, this gave me the confidence to pursue music as a career.
And you write your own content?
Of course that’s the number one rule in rap.
As a youngster, did you have any other aspirations?
Ever since the age of 13 I loved making music. I went to university and got a degree but music has always been my passion and what I wanted to pursue.
Who were your influences growing up?
I was heavily influenced by the UK grime/rap scene so artists like Kano, Bashy, Skepta , Dizzee.
Who do you dream of doing a collaboration with?
Sampha because he has one of the best voices I’ve ever heard and I know we could make a classic. Also Jaden Smith, he’s so versatile and I respect his artistry/creativity.
Tell us some more about your latest EP, ‘Neon Jungle’.
Neon Jungle has been in the pipeline for a while now. It started off about a year ago and since then I have just been slowly adding to it until I picked the best eight tracks. Some of the tracks didn’t make the cut. I always strive to make my latest work my best work, so I believe this is my best music to date.
What is your thoughts on touring?
When the time is right, I would love to tour with the gang.
Have you toured before?
No, but I do plan to now my project is released.
What’s your favourite song to perform?
At this moment in time it’s definitely ‘Five’. I love the energy the crowd has when I perform it and the reception the track has had so far has been great.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Making some of the best music I’ve ever made in my life from a beach cabin in Brazil.
JD Cliffe’s brand new EP, ‘Neon Jungle’ is out now.
Check it out here: