Toronto’s Own Jazz Cartier Speaks On Growth & Glory

Photo by Luis Mora

For many young upstarts in the Toronto hip hop scene, following in Drake’s footsteps isn’t for the faint of heart. Luckily for the 6, Jazz Cartier saw the shoes he could fill and ventured on his own path. Hailed by many as the prince of Toronto hip-hop, he accomplished quite a bit with his debut mixtape, Marauding In Paradise, getting praise from many publications and jumpstarting a successful online presence. Most notable from his last project to the next is his growth–the right balance of striking lyrics, elaborate visual aesthetic and vivid storytelling. On the heels of his release and in the midst of a tour, the rapper joined RESPECT. for a brief interview about his new album, Hotel Paranoia.

RESPECT.: What was the creative process behind your new album, Hotel Paranoia?

A lot of the ideas stemmed from being on the road more so on my down time in my hotels. As a personal continuation in terms of growth from MIP, I feel like this time around I was more aware of the story line and where I could take it.

If you could pick three words to describe your music, what would they be?

Cinematic, passionate & progressive.

How do you think you’ve grown as an artist since Marauding in Paradise?

The song writing has improved a lot. The confidence in the record is more present then it was on MIP.

You were born in Toronto, but you’ve also spent a decent amount of time in places like Barbados & Connecticut as well—do you think those places influence your approach in music?

Unconsciously maybe, but nothing that I’ve ever noticed.

What are you most excited for your tour?

I’m excited to connect with the people and also so the fans can finally experience the music live.

What are you looking forward to in the next year or so? Any big plans?

Bigger tours, and collaborations that I’m sitting on. More opportunities to branch out, etc.

What does RESPECT. mean to you?

Expecting less and appreciating more.
For more from Jazz Cartier, follow him on Soundcloud and Instagram. The young artist is currently on his first international tour, check the dates out below.