Upstate Ja is a true talent. The music he has already created has led those who are familiar with him to believe that he is a star in the making. When asked about his chances in the rap game, Ja’s response is and always will be, put simply, “This is my destiny.” About 5 weeks ago, while creating, Something clicked for Ja. Suddenly, Ja found a clear path to spread his message and story. A student of all types of music , Ja has been studying the art of hip hop through rappers like Rahkim, Andre 3000 and 50 Cent. In the past month alone, Ja has recorded over 20 songs and is looking to finish 30 more by the end of the summer. Ja explains, “I would describe my music as real, raw, and simply truthful. My purpose is to share my story. I am not here to be another player in the rap game, I have a story to tell. I know others have suffered hardships similar to mine and I truly believe that everyone can relate to my music.” Ja’s music will one day act as an escape for his fans from the stressors of everyday life. Growing up in one of the most poverty stricken neighborhoods in Albany, New York, Ja watched his father walk out of his life. While his mom did her best, her cocaine addiction that spurred from being a victim of domestic abuse, hindered her parenting abilities. Thus, Ja found himself a problem child, traveling from foster home to foster home until he found himself selling drugs to provide for his siblings. After a few stints in jail, Ja has been out of trouble for 12 years with three children and a full time job. Ja explains, “I am finally able to live a responsible and productive life. Prior to now, I have held my emotions and message inside” A reflective thinker, Ja has stayed away from social media, remained very reserved, and kept low profile. Remember the name Upstate Ja because soon his story will influence the lives of many people. Music produced by Arty “Skye” Shweky for the SkyeLab Music Group.