Representin' The Bronx

This is Jon Swaii's BEEN iLL SESSION

Tap In with Jon Swaii: Instagram | Twitter | Spotify 

What are 3 words that best describe you?

Loyal, undefeatable, focused.

Do you plan on remaining independent?

I plan to focus on staying independent as long as it’s beneficial. I don’t want to avoid working with a label if it could turn out to be mutually beneficial.

What is your favorite project that you’ve worked on to date?

My favorite project to date is Piece by Piece. It’s my favorite track because it proved to me that my music made my way can become successful. 

Do you have any future plans with music? Any projects coming up?

Early 2021 I plan on releasing an album with a very unique rollout.

How do you stay creative when you face personal life obstacles?

I think with age I’ve learned to balance obstacles and turn them into motivation. Even when I can’t find the silver lining, I try to put the emotion into music. Fear, anger, freedom.

Has your environment shaped the way you create?

I think my constant changing environment has given me the ability to allow my emotion and environment to flow through me.

Why music over everything else?

It’s the first thing that I ever felt truly loved me back unconditionally. Growing up nothing else seemed to be around long enough to gain my trust. Not people, not places. Music was.

Who inspires you most?

My daughter, as cliche as it sounds...her. She’s not only teaching me what a pure human energy is. She’s giving me the opportunity to love the inner me. She makes me feel like I’m able to love myself more.


If you could give advice to any artist just starting out, what would you say?

I would say believe in your every instinct. The growth is slow and purposeful. If you’re not respecting and appreciating your Lows at your highs, you’ll never respect your success. Force yourself to believe that only death can stop you.

Listen to Jon Swaii's latest here

Interviewed by: Margaritë Camaj