Exposed Vocals interviews Lebanese singer-songwriter IJK

Exposed Vocals: So tell us your story. Where did you grow up? What made you decide to become an artist?

I was born and raised in Beirut, Lebanon. I grew up listening to rock and roll and alternative music before I got my first guitar at age 14 and started singing at home. My parents encouraged me and that meant a lot as it helped me build confidence while performing.

When I heard Elvis Presley for the first time on an old vinyl, I decided to become an artist and give music a serious shot.

Exposed Vocals: Since everyone was a start-up once, can you give any smaller or local bands or artists looking to get gigs and airplay some tips?

I advise new artists to focus on their music and write solid and quality songs. But that’s not all. They need to put as much effort in promoting their music by working hard and being assertive. It is not enough to be positive and hopeful. There is no shortcut to success. Taking action is key and is the single most important tip to reach the next level.

Exposed Vocals: Do you ever make mistakes during performances? How do you handle that?

Everybody makes mistakes. This is part of being human. I usually remain cool about it, continue my performance and just move on. The audience doesn’t even notice most of the time especially if it is handled correctly.

Exposed Vocals: Do you tour? Anything interesting happen on tour that you think our readers would enjoy hearing about?

I am currently focusing on studio work and most of my time is spent writing and producing new materials. During my last tour, I had the chance to play at a venue called The Bull & Gate in London: It was apparently a venue where Coldplay performed before they became famous.

Exposed Vocals: Any planned studio upgrades? What are you working with now?

I record my rough demos using Focusrite, a Shure Beta 58 and one of my acoustic guitars, usually a Fender. I use Audacity as a recording software and that’s pretty much it. For official music releases, I only work with professional producers and recording studios in London.

Exposed Vocals: How do you find ways to promote your music? What works best for you?

I do a lot of direct promotion on social media in addition to networking. I think all artists should focus on boosting their PR. This is an industry where it is all about who you know. I love my fans and what works best for me is always striving to give them new engaging material. My fans are the best promoters for my music.

Exposed Vocals: If you could perform anywhere and with any artists (Dead or Alive) where and who would it be with? Why?

Wow that’s a cool question! Well my dream would be to perform with Elvis in Las Vegas. We would sing a duet of Blue Suede Shoes or a modern version of Jailhouse Rock!

Exposed Vocals: So, what’s next? Any new upcoming projects that you want to talk about?

I am currently working on a new music video for my next single entitled “Johnny & June”. I am planning to release it by end of 2017.

Exposed Vocals: If you weren’t making music, what would you be doing?

Another form of art. Probably drawing comic books J

Exposed Vocals: What should fans look forward to in the next year or so?

I am planning to release a number of new singles with music videos next year. An album is also in the making but that’s most likely for 2019.

Exposed Vocals: Any Shout-outs?

 Thanks to all my fans, friends and family. Thanks also to all the producers and artists I have been working with over the past few years. Your valuable contribution and support means the world to me. Many thanks to Exposed Vocals. God bless.