Growing up in Los Angeles I've had the opportunity to watch some great artists descend to the top. In the 80's, the Whisky a Go-Go was the place to be. I remember seeing a local upstart band with an arrogant blond hair lead singer takeover the stage. After they finished an electrifying performance, I knew those guys were stars but they just didn't know it yet. The local band went on to become Guns N' Roses.
My second meeting with Jus Hustle was in L.A. while he was in town working on a music publishing deal. Most artists I've met fall into two categories. They may be great musicians, but aren't very bright when it comes to the music business. On the other hand, they may be great businessmen but there music is forgettable. From the time he spends on his Blackberry, Jus seems to multi task the two very well.
While waiting for lunch at La Seranata de Gaibaldi, Hustle admits he is a perfectionist when it comes to music. This statement would prove to be absolutely true. He invited me to the studio later that night, and we parted ways after lunch.
Around 11pm I arrived at the studio in North Hollywood which was more like a rehearsal room. There were 2 grand pianos positioned across from each other, 2 drum sets, 2 keyboards, and 2 acoustic guitars. The clear theme here was the number 2. A fan of all genres, Jus Hustle begins talking about Phil Spector's Wall of Sound, and how it changed music. Out of nowhere, several musicians begin filling the room toting their cellos and violins. For a moment I forgot I was covering a hip hop artist. It was apparent tonight would be very interesting.
This is part 2 of 5 of the Real Hip Hop Music series featuring Jus Hustle.
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