Jerry Afemata
Friday - February 01, 2008
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Jerry Afemata
Aka: J Boog
Hometown: Born in Long Beach and raised in Compton, Calif.
Currently residing: Makakilo
Musical occupation: Singer.
How did you get into the music business?
Music has always played a major role in my life while I was growing up. It has impacted the way I live and approach daily life. Music was always around me in church, at home, on the streets - everywhere. I sang all the time at school, with family and friends during get-togethers and jam sessions, and of course church. I even sang during football practice and games. My opponents would think I had mental issues, but it helped me be more focused in the game. My true love for reggae allows me to express myself easily through song, and to me it was just relaxing, strong and positive - totally opposite of our surroundings and environment at that time. You could say that music is more than just a form of expression, it’s also a form of release. People find inspiration in many ways. The inspiration behind the music I write comes mainly through my life’s experiences, struggles and successes, and the influence of musical artists who I listened to growing up during those times. It’s fair to say that I love all forms of music and try to incorporate these music styles during the creative process.
Your debut album, Hear Me Roar, is produced by South Pac artist Fiji. How did you two meet and decide to work together?
I was working at an oil refinery in California and some of my co-workers had a resource to get my music to Fiji’s management. When they heard my music, they wanted to meet me in person. So when I came out to Hawaii to meet with them I didn’t know at the time that they were already sold on my music, but they wanted to know what kind of person I was. Shortly after I was introduced to Fiji, and before you know it I’m inside of a sound booth with Fiji behind the boards looking directly at me. I knew right there that these people meant business.
Can you describe the sound/style of the album?
Reggae, R&B with an Island twist.
What are you goals musically?
I would like to take this Island music to the mainstream and open new doors for our people because we’ve got a voice to be heard.
Any ongoing or upcoming gigs?
I will be performing onstage with Fiji at the Pipeline Cafe Feb. 7. I will also be performing at Windward Mall Feb. 9 from 6 to 7 p.m. I will also be doing a CD signing there at the mall after that performance.
Contact information: www.southpacentertainment.com/jboog
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