By Nicholas Jason Lopez
With now over 1.5 million streams and official videos that have garnered over 500,000 views, Brooklyn, N.Y.-based artist Jehry Robinson’s debut album ’20/Twenty,’ released via Strange Music, has made an obvious impression on those who’ve pressed play.
Versatility being the name of the game, ’20/Twenty’ features 20 tracks that blend hip-hop, rap, reggae, pop and rock, which has made it clear that Robinson’s is a name that’ll stick around.
He hoped that with this album, he would instill people to think differently and keep an open mind – that a little bit of fight and faith can go a long way.
The Music Bugle had the chance to catch up with Robinson about ’20/Twenty’ and more.
Music Bugle – Did you ever imagine ’20/Twenty’ having the streaming success it has had so far?
Jehry Robinson – No. It absolutely exceeded my expectations. I didn’t expect it to reach as far as it has in such little time.
Music Bugle – What was it like putting together ’20/Twenty’?
Jehry Robinson – It was like encompassing my entire life into one body of work – the good, the bad and the mundane showcased through sound and melody. It was magical.
Music Bugle – What excites you the most about your musical style?
Jehry Robinson – The fact that there’s no boundaries. I don’t confine to genres or styles. I just create what comes out. Strange Music has allowed me to be my full authentic self.
Music Bugle – Which of your songs are you the proudest of?
Jehry Robinson – “In My Feels.” I’m proud of this song because I feel like it truly speaks to who I am not only as an artist, but a person. The production immediately captivated me. I love performing this record and connecting with people as they listen.
Music Bugle – Does social media make it easier or harder for a musician to stand out these days?
Jehry Robinson – A little bit of both. Easier because anyone can reach an audience without a budget, but harder because anyone can reach an audience without a budget.
Music Bugle – What’s something you wished happened more in the music industry?
Jehry Robinson – I wish artists showed more unity and helped build each other instead of always being in competition.
Music Bugle – How have you been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic?
Jehry Robinson – Like a ton of other artists, opportunities have been canceled or postponed. I try to stay focused on making incredible music, no matter what the environment is around me.
Music Bugle – What’s a quote that motivates you to keep doing what you do?
Jehry Robinson – “Live a few years like most people won’t, so you can live the rest of your years like most people can’t.” Oh, and also “That’ll do, pig. That’ll do.”
Music Bugle – Where do you go when you feel the need to escape?
Jehry Robinson – I don’t often feel a need to escape. I try to thrive in all circumstances. However, if I am going to escape, it’s going to be binging a show or docu-series.
Music Bugle – Which of your tattoos do you get asked the most about?
Jehry Robinson – My FBA tattoo. A lot of people ask me what it means. It stands for, “Famous By Association,” which is my company I started with my manager, Tara.
