JOHN ALEX GATSBY is an emerging artist that sat down with our own @klassikceo for this edition of Straight Official Sit Downs. The official online site of The Worldwide Fleet DJs, we get you up to speed with new talent from across the land. Check out their one-on-one down below and click here for more issues of Straight Official Sit Downs.
Q&A With John Alex Gatsby
Where are you from?
Born in Brooklyn, New York and raised in Greensboro, NC
What first interested you in the entertainment industry?
I would go to the radio station with my dad who was a DJ on 97.1WQMG in Greensboro, NC and answer the phones across the hall at 102JAMZ with DJ Tapmoney and seeing all the action. Growing up music was always played in my house. My dad taught me how to DJ, how to mix and exposed me to so many different genres of music.
Who/what inspires you to create?
I’m inspired by multiple artists including Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Bruno Mars, Usher, Chris Brown and so many other legends
The Creative Process
How would you describe your sound?
Unique. I like to offer genre bending music. I like to promote positivity in my sound, challenging harmonies and a wide vocal range to top it all off.
What is your creative process like?
I “cook up” with my producers, I don’t accept beat packs. I am influenced by the moment and create from scratch on the spot in the studio. That’s best musical magic making.
What artist(s) would you like to collaborate with?
So many! Stevie Wonder is at the top of the list. I like Jazmine Sullivan a lot, Jay-Z would be a dream come true.
This is a marathon not a sprint, and you must not follow your dreams but instead, chase them.
John Alex Gatsby
Shifting Gears
What is one message you would give to your supporters?
Firstly, thank you because without you there would be no me. Secondly, I would encourage everyone to not only follow their dreams, but chase them.
What is the most talent/skill you have that most people don’t know about?
I am a multi-engine certified pilot. I have been flying airplanes longer than I have been driving cars!
Who are some artists/people you admire and why?
I admire anyone who is willing to go through the process. Those who put forward the dedication and put in the work necessary to be heard by the masses, all while dealing with the internal scrutiny and asking “Am I good enough?” I can relate to every artist struggle and admire anyone who is willing to go through it just because we love making music so much.
In Conclusion
If you could change anything about the industry, what would it be?
The industry is gonna be the industry, if I were to change one thing, another thing would simply become more problematic. Because it is what it is, what must be willing to change is my ability to adapt to a constantly changing environment.
What’s next for you, where would you like to see yourself in the next year?
My primary focus is to keep making good, relatable music, continue to work with various platforms to get my word to the masses and enjoy the journey along the way. In a year, I will be enjoying the ride, enjoying the fruits of my hard work and working even harder to level up yet again.
Follow John Alex Gatsby on Social Media
@JohnAlexGatsby on everything. check out my site and get some merch at www.johnalexgatsby.com DM me on the gram, I would love to hear from you!
#GetSOM via @klassikceo