Julius “Music is who I am”

This passionate young man made music a part of his life as soon as he hit his adolescent years. I had the pleasure conducting an international telephone interview with Julius where he resides in New York City. He originated from the soil of Sealots, Port-of-Spain, Trinidad & Tobago.  Julius entered small talent shows but his recollection of his first major performance was for A.N.R- Robinson; song titled “The future belongs to me” by David Rudder. Some will remember the young boy rapping in the song, he is not a young boy anymore Julius had the honour of working with David Rudder with that 1991 hit. That particular song became a global hit which captured two awards. The former United States Secretary Hillary Clinton initiated back then, that track to be used in schools when delivering motivational speeches.

Julius sparked the interest of Machel Montano shortly after he was signed by Coral Studios during the time with the Jamaican & Trinidadian fusion Beenie Man and Machel hit “Outer Space”. He is grateful for all his accomplishments thus far.

Julius also shared the stage with many fellow Caribbean artists as well.  He performed alongside international artists like Red Rat, Lord Nelson, Kevin Lyttle, Maximus Dan, the Mighty Sparrow, Walker, and Buccaneer, just to name a few. He’s also performed with Shaggy in 2000, with his mega hit “It Wasn’t Me” when Rik Rok wasn’t available for a performance in Trinidad. Machel was said to have suggested Rodney for the performance because of his, “milky” melodious vocals.

Julius is currently the lead vocalist for 7IQ pronounced as “7 –eye-q”. His band showcases all genres of music he calls it “Caribbean Pop”. His main musical icons are the late David Rudder, Mighty Shadow, Enya, the late Michael Jackson and Bob Marley.

 

7IQ tours the United Sates. His love for soca landed him a nomination for 2012 soca “I love liquor” alongside Vijay Arjun.

 

His goal as an artiste is to spread music world wide without any limitations.  He is quite a realistic individual. When I asked him about his challenges he may have faced he openly admitted he is comfortable of his advancement in life whilst embracing his place in the entertainment industry.

His message to those who are dreaming to get involved in the music industry is to “be assertive in your craft and most importantly be different”. He intends to keep focus and live the life he loves.

 

By: Jeuel  Green-Thompson

 

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