Ja’ness of NE and NW D.C on Life, Lessons & Legacy

Ja’ness shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Ja’ness, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
I find Integrity a very important attribute in a person because it shows that you not only respect others around you, but mostly yourself. When you make staying true to yourself a top priority it shows up in everything you do. Eventually the people who are around you and/or watching you will have no choice but to respect you.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Ja’ness, an alternative pop and R&B artist who makes music that’s honest, emotional, and unafraid. My first single “YET” was about heartbreak and finding my strength again, and my newest release “Run Shit” is me standing fully in my power. My goals are to create a vibe people can fully step into. Right now I’m performing around the DMV, growing my audience, and creating a world that makes women feel powerful without losing their softness.

Okay, so here’s a deep one: What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
I think bonds break when there’s no honesty or respect. Once trust slips, it’s hard to feel safe with somebody. What restores it is consistency. Showing up, being real about your intentions, and proving with actions that you mean what you say.

What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering taught me patience and humility. It showed me who I really am when everything feels heavy. Success feels good, but pain taught me how to fight for myself, how to appreciate peace, and how to move with gratitude.

Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
The biggest lie is that you gotta play small or change who you are to fit in. That clout and streams mean more than raw talent. The wildest one? … that artists need the industry’s blessing to shine, when the truth is we can build our own lane and take it further than they ever imagined.

Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
I’d stop wasting time on people and spaces that don’t serve me. No more overexplaining, no more shrinking myself to make others feel comfortable. I’d only pour into the things and the people that actually matter.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.janessmusic.com
• Instagram: @janessmusic
• Facebook: Ja’ness Tate
• Youtube: @janessmusic

Image Credits
Sean Cokes