It takes a lot of guts for a high school kid to approach a rap star, not for an autograph, but for a job. But that’s just what burgeoning producer, Marvelous J did — and it worked.
“I started off producing for fun in high school,” the beatsmith, who has worked with Plies, Keyshia Cole, Rocko, Gorilla Zoe and Joe Gator says. “I was still getting lunch money from ma dukes. Then I ran into [Grand Hustle’s] Big Kuntry and I just ran up on him like, ‘What’s up?’ I’m the hottest, youngest cat you’re going to come across. And it worked out.”
Kuntry took the beat CD and wrote “Yeah (I’m On It)” that same day. The rest, as they say is history. Marvelous J, who isn’t short on confidence, has been maneuvering his way through the industry ever since.
“I looked up to the Neptunes, Timbaland … but then I became my own inspiration,” he laughs. “Before I even got out of high school I was making more money than the teachers.”
His attitude combined with his work ethic suggests that Marvelous J shouldn’t have a problem keeping his name relevant. He’s quick to give advice to other young up and coming.
“I just turned 21 and I broke into the game at 17,” he says. “My advice is to keep grinding and don’t be afraid to approach somebody — it worked for me.” –jh
