Today we’d like to introduce you to Javon “J.Lane’t” Morris.
Hi Javon “J.Lane’t”, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I started singing at the age of two in my local church choir in Sacramento, Ca. , but over the years I have developed into the artist I am proud of as “J.Lane’t”. I have worked really hard to create my own lane and space. Surprisingly I went YEARS without singing because I felt pressure to be something that I was not. I felt like it was forced rather than passionate and so I stopped. I know that probably isn’t good to say, but I didn’t recognize singing as my God-given gift, but rather an obligation.
I was later introduced to 2 major influences that ignited my fire for singing again and they were: the movie Sister Act 2 and RnB group Boyz II Men (B2M).
I’d rewind the movie several times and listen to B2M music in my room and practice choreography over and over, haha. Even then I didn’t recognize myself as an artist, however I felt more free in singing, dancing, and being creative.
I didn’t become “the artist” J.Lane’t until I graduated from college and started really coming into my own as a singer, songwriter.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Not at all! I struggled with an internal identity crisis and people-pleasing the most.
I started focusing more on other people’s perceptions of me as an artist. You know, like “what I should sing. Or how I should sing.” I stopped focusing on what made me happy and free, but rather “what would people say if I sang Rnb/ Soul instead of Gospel?” I struggled with this for a good 10-15 years.
Don’t get me wrong Gospel music is my first love musically, it’s a HUGE influence not only for my art, but my spiritual growth as well, but I wanted my art to reflect more than that side of me.
I LOVE a good love song or a few rapped bars here and there and I wanted my own music to mirror those parts of me too.
After going through some other personal struggles (the death of my Grandmother, a failed relationship, and being away from home) I knew this was the time to shed the people-pleasing and finally live life on my terms and do it boldly through my music.
From there my first album “Conversations” was created and a year later “Javon” the EP emerged.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a singer/ songwriter specializing in singing what is on my heart and singing with feeling no matter the genre! I am known for smooth riffs, my songwriting skills, letting my personality shine through my music and performances, being bold, powerful, and encouraging.
I am most proud of my ability to connect with my audiences. I feel, because of my own struggles I try (with God’s help) to connect with those that feel like I do/ did. So far, it appears to be effective for my artistry.
I believe what sets me apart is my heart for people and my ability to share my testimony through my lyrics. No matter if I’m singing Gospel, Classical, RnB, or any genre, the listener hears my heart. I don’t think everyone has that ability. I did a radio interview once, and the DJ said “You know when it’s a J.Lane’t record, her voice is unique.” After that interview it helped me hone in on the fact that’s why my listeners gravitate to my music, they feel like they know me from my singing and I like that.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
I’d like to let the reader know to take time to find YOU and once you do that, live as your true authentic self! Don’t let ANYONE sway your thinking when it comes to pursuing your passions and goals. Stay grounded, seek a solid support group and maintain a true connection with God, because, for me, HE has been my only constant foundation through every adventure in which I stepped out on faith.
With that being said, I am journeying into some other business ventures. I own a clothing company called Ginny ’84 as well as venturing into writing personalized songs to commemorate people’s life events (weddings, anniversaries, birthday, etc.) so if you are in need or interested in a song or stylish clothes please reach out and I’d love to connect with you!
I have a new single “Are You Sure?” Releasing August 2021! This is my first release in 2 years and I’m excited about it dropping soon!
Contact Info:
- Email: jlanetmusic@live.com
- Website: www.jlanetmusic.com
- Instagram: @jlanetmusic
- Facebook: @jlanetmusic
- Twitter: @jlanetmusic
- Youtube: Youtube.com/jlanetmusic
Image Credits:
Dayshia Boykins Jazma Tapia Jacqueline Padilla Javon Morris
