Music Bugle Exclusive – Q & A – Brian J Of Pimps Of Joytime

By Nicholas Jason Lopez

Joytime pimpin’ ain’t easy.

Recognized for their energetic stage presence and 2022 album ‘Reachin’ Up’ via Regime Music Group that spawned hits like “Are You Gonna?” and “Lesson,” The Pimps Of Joytime are GRAMMY Award-nominated producer Brian J, singer Carol C and bassist Pete Shand (New Mastersounds).

Brooklyn’s indie music scene, San Francisco soul and New Orleans funk are all fused together in PJT’s overall sound, where you can also find traces of 60’s salsa, modern hip-hop and 90’s club vibes.

‘Reachin’ Up’ originated from a two-week batch of studio instrumentals that Brian J made, before he invited collaborator Marcus Ferrar to work on one of the tracks and after they gelled, the rest came together when Carol C added her sultry voice and Shand added bass.

The Music Bugle had the opportunity to talk with Brian J about what excites him the most about the band’s music, his proudest accomplishment and much more, which you can check out below.

Music Bugle – How did you guys decide the band name?

Brian J – The phrase “Pimp Of Joytime” was in a piece some buddies of mine wrote for my first album. When I heard that line, it jumped out at me and I knew that had to be the band name.

Music Bugle – How would you describe your band’s music? 

Brian J – Groove music with a bit of disco, a bit of dub and a bunch of soul.

Music Bugle – What was it like putting together your album ‘Reachin’ Up’?

Brian J – It was a fun experience throughout. I made a bunch of instrumentals in 2019. Some of those I wrote and some I collaborated with friends. I reunited with Chauncey Yearwood, who is featured on a track, as well as Carol C of Si*Se and Marcus Farrar of Antibalas.

Music Bugle – What has been your proudest accomplishment?

Brian J – Just the fact that I’m still out here making the best music I can. I keep pushing to grow musically and personally.

Music Bugle – What excites you the most about your style of music?

Brian J – My style is really just a gumbo of the music I love put through the filter of my personality. If it’s not fun and interesting, I take a turn and try something different.

Music Bugle – Where do you go when you need a break? 

Brian J – I take a nap.

Music Bugle – Who are you listening to right now, music-wise?

Brian J – Tame Impala, Khrungbin, Tinariwen, Charlie Crocket and Aaron Frazer.

Music Bugle – Does social media help or hurt musicians? 

Brian J – Social media can be very helpful to communicate with and expand an audience.

Music Bugle – What’s a quote that motivates you to keep doing what you do?

Brian J – “I wants to get funked up,” from George Clinton.