Jai Natai Lotus isn’t necessarily new to the Montreal music scene (even snagging a nomination for the Polaris Music Prize in 2013), but the rapper-producer is still carving out his path; most recently taking on the MTL Jazz Festival in July. In 2014, he successfully release of his R&B/Soul-infused rap album Something You Feel and gained a lot of local and international attention for the project which focuses on dark synths and soulful samples. Needless to say, Jai Nitai Lotus has etched out his own unique soundscape, equipped with a vulnerable yet gritty approach that always finds its balance. – Erin Lowers
Jai Nitai Lotus will be performing at Live at the Square at Yonge & Dundas Square on September 19. Follow Jai Nitai Lotus. @JaiNitaiLoTus
Being from MTL, can you describe the music scene around you?
Montreal is a highly creative city. There are great art and music festivals. There are lots of musicians, artists and a lot of talent here, but there’s no real hip hop “industry,” so its hard to survive with out leaving the city. At the same time, I feel the lack of industry creates an open atmosphere to be more innovative. In recent years, our beat community has really grown and stood out, bringing forth a lot of cats who are making a big buzz globally (like Kaytranada, Shash’U, KenLo). It feels like people are starting to pay attention, and they’ve only touched the surface.
What is your favorite thing about where you live or the part of the city you are from?
I’m currently living and raising my daughter in an area of Montreal known as NDG. It’s a diverse neighbourhood that I’ve felt connected to for a while. There are a lot families from different backgrounds and cultures raising their children here. It has a lot of parks, big trees, community organizations, small businesses and shops. But it’s still in the city, so you deal with the realities and struggles of city life. I generally appreciate how people live and interact with each other here.
How have you seen art and creativity directly impact the area of the city you live in?
In NDG, there are specific music, art and film festivals that go on in the parks. I feel [that] it encourages people to get out and be more in touch with the people in their community. There is a specific youth center that mentors local youth with music, art, dance and sports, and then annually showcases their talents. You can see that the youth take pleasure in it, and it gives and them a positive way to express themselves and be heard. It’s very inspiring.
What do you think that you as a creative person brings to the table that is different than other artists?
I believe in originality and authenticity. My art is truly a reflection of me. What you hear in my records and hear me speak of on stage are actually things I try to live by. I think people can relate to authentic expression, which is sadly not the norm in mainstream music. The style in which I produce, write and perform is distinctly my own…I try to open people up through creativity and inspire them.
Why is it important for you to take part in the Manifesto festival?
Inspiring through hip hop music, art and culture is what I’m about. So taking part in a festival like this is very important to me. It’s refreshing to see a hip hop festival that focuses on community upliftment.
What Canadian rap song epitomizes your childhood?
I was glued to Much Music growing up, recording videos on VHS and all that. There are too many to name, but “Ol’ Time Killin'” By Kardinal Offishal is a timeless Toronto (Canadian) anthem.
WATCH: Jai Nitai Lotus – “Love Won’t Win”
