Conversations & Quotables Q&A with Mahogany Jones.PNG

I was recently blessed to chat with the ill lyricist and world renowned & prolific emcee Mahogany Jones. Peep the Q&A to gain insight & soak in her wisdom regarding the artistry of Hip Hop.

Achickwitbeatz: Who is Mahogany Jones?

Mahogany Jones: Mahogany Jones was born and raised in New York City and is currently a 13 year Detroit transplant my music is a blend of Neo soul and hip-hop with hints of folk and lots of soul. I am a recording artist and artist educator, a US musical Ambassador, a member of the foundation of women in hip-hop and creator of aPuremovement.com.

Achickwitbeatz: When did you first discover that you needed music to be a part of your life?

Mahogany Jones: I grew up in a very musical family my aunt was Norene Woods, the first African-American Vice President of any major record label which at the time was Atlantic records. My grandmother was Executive Assistant to Doug Morris who at the time was an executive at Atlantic as well, and my mother was a radio promotion exec for both Warner Bros. and then PolyGram records. I took for granted that music was all around me and the last thing that I wanted to be was a recording artist or in the music industry when I was growing up . I did however want to be a poet . It wasn't until I met an MC who I fell in love with while I fell in love with hip-hop. I was 20 years old and the new fourth time undefeated freestyle Friday champion of BET's 106 and Park. It was then I knew I couldn't live without music or hip-hop .

Achickwitbeatz: What is the most valuable thing you've learned since you became an independent artist?

Mahogany Jones: That I have to believe in myself before I expect anyone else to and mastering the business of the music business is more essential than anything.

Achickwitbeatz: What are 5 attributes/skills that would place an artist on your top 10 list?

Mahogany Jones: Originality
                              Creativity
                              Vulnerability and connectivity
                              Craft mastery
                              Undeniable presence that shows up on stage and recordings.

Achickwitbeatz: Conversely, what are 5 attributes that would place an artist at the very bottom of your list?

Mahogany Jones: Being a carbon copy
                              Being up obnoxious
                              Boring repetitive content
                              Lack of presence recorded and or on stage
                              Lack of skill

Achickwitbeatz: What advice do you have to offer those seeking longevity in their music careers?

Mahogany Jones: Grow with a team of people who believe in you, who you believe in. Stay true to your sound but don't be afraid to take risks and evolve. Then be about your business. Remember the why of what you're doing and stay true to your vision and be willing to stay the course .

Achickwitbeatz: What's next on the horizon for Mahogany Jones?

Mahogany Jones: The release of the deluxe version of sugar water for summer 2017 More national and international touring of sugar water A few SXSW showcases The release of pure - A girl/ women's empowerment 12 week workshop curriculum Grammy nods and red carpet Strolls The spreading of God's love and good vibes.

Achickwitbeatz: How can people connect with you and stay current with what you have in the works?

Mahogany Jones: www.mahoganyjones.com @mahoganyjonz- IG @mahoganyjonz- FB fan page @mahoganyjonez- twitter