Brazilian Multi-platinum producer, João “JD On Tha Track” Duarte, is a hitmaker influencing the hip hop game in a major way. Backed by Sony Music Entertainment his distinct sound has afforded him the opportunity to collaborate with music hotshots such as Lil Tjay, Polo G, Gunna, Lil Baby, NBA Youngboy, and Rick Ross to name a few.

I caught up with the hitmaker for a candid interview, as he openly discussed transitioning to America, creating hits with Lil Tjay and having an original sound. Check it out below!

JD On Tha Track Interview 

Respect: Who is JD on the Track?

JD: Just a person that had a dream to become one of the greatest producers ever. I’ a person who made it out Brazil that wanted to change the world in a positive way, being a motivation to people and someone to help people through music. I want people to feel my beats in their hearts and souls and change their lives for the better.  I want to my music to make people’s day. I want to change the world. I want to be the best producer ever.

Respect: When did you realize you wanted to pursue a career in music as a producer?

JD: I realized around 2011 when I was listening to Wiz Khalifa’s  “Cabin Fever” album or something like that and I told myself,  “I want to be apart of this” because when I saw the producing credits of the producers, I knew I wanted to make something like this. So that is when I first realized, I wanted to do that. 2012 was the year I actually started making beats. I always loved music.  Since I was a kid, I always listened to Eminem, 50 cent, Akon, The Game, everybody back in the day. I always had that passion for music especially Rap and Hip-Hop.”

Respect: How did you get your start in the music business? When did you catch your break?

JD: I think it was when TJAY dropped “Brothers” and that song started doing well. After “Pop Out”, everything was getting better.”

Respect: Do you mind giving some insight on what it’s been like working and creating with Lil Tjay?

JD: We the got chemistry. Since I met him, we just kept going hard. We have so many songs that are not even out yet and every song that we have could go platinum. Every song that we have a good response from the fans and everybody.

Respect: How does it feel like having a record charting on billboard at the number 11 as one of your major accomplishments?

JD: It feels amazing. Just a blessing.

Respect: How has being a multi-platinum producer changed your life?  

JD: It changed my life on how I see things. I have become so mature. I have learned so many new things.

Respect: As you are a producer who has found your way in the industry, how would you best describe your production style?

JD: I think my production style is melodic with some hard drums. It’s very unique. When people come to me, they want that “JD on the track” style. When they hear it, they will know it is me on the beat once my tag line drops on every song. That is really important for a producer. Producers need to have their own sound and style.

Respect: What prompted your move to America from Brazil as you have recently relocated?

JD: I have only been living in the US for 3 months. Music made me move to the US to pursue my dreams and goals. Respect: What is up next for JD on the Track as the new year is underway, and what are you most excited about in 2020?

JD: I have a lot of songs with a bunch of new people. I am not going to disclose any names but it is a lot of people and you all will see when it drops. You can expect so much more hard work, many more plaques, and an album. I want to drop an album with all my producing credits. You can expect a lot from me in 2020.

Respect: What prompted your move to America from Brazil?

JD: I have only been living in the US for 3 months. Music made me move to the US to pursue my dreams and goals.

Respect: How have things been since moving to America?

JD: It was tough in the beginning but after a while, I have definitely gotten used to it.

Respect: What advice would you give a person looking to break into the industry as a producer?

JD: Just keep going hard. Keep doing what you doing. Do not listen to what anyone has to say about it. Do not lose faith. Just keep going, no matter what.”

To learn more about JD On Tha Track and his future success, be sure to follow him one social media @jdonthatrack.  

The post JD On Tha Track Talks Being A Hitmaker, Working With Lil Tjay & Transitioning To America appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

Behind the “Ricchezza” brand seen on Young Thug, Polo G, Lil Durk, Gunna, Dej Loaf, Lil Uzi Vert and countless more fashion-forward tastemakers in pop culture is Ropa, the Chicago fashion prodigy who started humbly when he was in high-school but weaved his way to an enviable place in modern streetwear. He’s a true craftsman, putting out limited-releases with most of his website sold out all the time. He’s looking to release a new collection in the first week of November and to celebrate we’re gonna honor some of his best work to date.

He’s designed tour merch for YSL Records, Chance The Rapper, Jacquees & more. The best way to appreciate his impact is by paying close attention to the iconic fits he’s put together for these superstars. Here’s a top 10 set of his looks for your viewing pleasure featuring well, pretty much everyone in hip-hop:

Follow Ropa on Instagram to stay in-tune with his latest drop.

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The post Fashion Prodigy Ropa Hints at New Ricchezza Drop appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

Photo Credit: Def Jam/Mass Appeal

East released a set of songs as a preview of the album entitled Survival Pacc with two leading singles “Everyday” featuring Gunna and “Wanna Be a G” featuring Max B.

Stream and listen to the two singles below and stay tuned for the upcoming debut album Survival coming soon.

https://tidal.com/album/114086125

The post Dave East Releases Two New Tracks from His Upcoming Debut Album “Survival” appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

Hit the desert with Gunna and Jordyn below.

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The XXL Freshman 2019 Cover Has Arrived

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Congrats goes out to Comethazine, Tierra Whack, DaBaby, Lil Mosey, Roddy Ricch, YBN Cordae, YK Osiris, Rico Nasty, Gunna, Megan Thee Stallion and Blueface, all artists who have been making big strides toward permanent stardom before this cover came to light. You can also expect a slew of freestyles, cyphers and interviews to come from this class soon.

Check out the cover and announcement video below.

Image credit: XXL

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