Rising Star Contemporary R&B/Soul: PJ

Blessed with an angelic voice; the artist simply known as PJ has breathed life into a genre missing a genuine presence. Her voice is subtle and her approach to music seems…well, audibly warm and inviting. I happened across the newly signed Atlantic Records artist while on Twitter looking for new music and came across “I Mean It” ft. Hit-Boy. The song was causing quite a stir and from first listen I fell in love.  I began to dig deeper into my new loves repertoire. It did not take long to find that she has penned several songs for some of rap music’s hottest artist and her new video, ‘Make Believe,’ shown below. PJ was chosen as DELUX Rising Star: Contemporary R&B/Soul because her voice and songwriting ability strikes a strong chord for anyone who is chasing or realizing their dreams. Her voice and talent is as pure as honey and her spirit perhaps just as sweet. Check out the Q&A below and her new EP Walking Around Pools is available now on ITunes: Purchase Walking Around Pools On ITunes Now!

Do you have a family nickname and how’d you get it?

Didn’t really have one, everyone called me Paris.

Age: 25

What was the first song you remember falling in love with?

To be honest I can’t remember.  But I think it was “I just can’t wait to be king” from Lion King.

Who are your musical influences?

I grew up listening to a lot of different things.  So it’s kind of too hard to name. But I would say a mix of Hip-Hop, R&B and Pop.  There’s definitely some Michael Jackson, Lauryn Hill, Eve, basically whatever my mom played.  And I was just super heavy on Disney soundtracks.

Past or present who would you like to write a song for?

I would rather write a song with them, instead of for them.  But Kid Cudi, Drake, Kanye, Pharrell, The Script.  

What do you consider your biggest accomplishment thus far in life?

I think the biggest accomplishment in my life is just being able to move forward despite the set backs I keep running into.  But definitely just getting my foot in the door.

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What pisses you off more than anything?

Men who don’t take care of their kids. 


Name the worst job you ever had briefly describe your worst day there?

I think the worst job I ever had was selling food outside of Esso Night Club, and Velvet Room in Atlanta.  Just because we’re dealing with super drunk people all night long.  Which is not always a bad thing, it could be pretty entertaining.  But once in while, there would always be some craziness.

PJ – Publicity 8 – Shelby Goldstein2600

What is the one thing you cannot live with out?

My family and my music and then egg rolls.

Do you have a motto or personal mantra?

Don’t wait for permission.

“If you’ve ever felt overlooked, I’ve been there. I know what it’s like when you feel like you’re the only one fighting,” says PJ. “I don’t write much about love, because it’s never been a huge part of my life. I write about being counted out or not being checked for, or school, or problems with money. These are things that everyone I know has always had to deal with.”

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You can follow PJ on Twitter: @justpeej

Check out her soundcloud: PJ on SoundCloud

Photos by Shelby Goldstein

DeWarren Smith