An Interview with Jamogi

If you dig funk, R&B, or pop, you will dig the music of Jamogi. A Kansas City-based musician, Jamogi combines genres into music that is uplifting, energetic, and at its simplest catchy.

I spoke to Jamogi specifically about three singles he has released within the last few years. This includes the songs "Star-Crossed Lover," "Hot Block," and "Go Big or Go Home."

"Star-Crossed Lover" was released as a single in 2023 and also on Jamogi's EP Age of Aquarius.

'"Star-Crossed Lover' was based off an experience of a breakup I went through back in 2022," Jamogi says. "It’s saying that you just want to feel the excitement and thrill that love gives you one more time, even if it’s with a person who you’re unable to be with, due to fate, which we’ve all felt that way: been so infatuated with someone, but you know it’s not going to work out in the long run. Kinda like the “Romeo & Juliet” trope."

"Hot Block" was released as a single on May 30, 2024.

Jamogi says: “'Hot Block' was written by a friend in California. She’s always wanted to write a song for an artist but didn’t know where to start. So I reached out and asked if she’d like to write it. She wrote the verses and the rap. I wrote the pre-chorus & the bridge. The song is very flirty. Kinda like a summer block party mood. Big shout out to Gianni, who produced the track."

Jamogi's single "Go Big or Go Home" evokes energy directly from the very beginning of the track. Jamogi released the single on August 30. 2024.

“'Go Big or Go Home' was inspired by HBCU marching band culture. I was watching some marching band videos, and this guy was like, 'Either you go big or you go home,' and it just clicked for me," Jamogi says. "I wanted it to be inspirational and uplifting as well - reminding ourselves to stop playing small for the comfort of others. Give your all, no matter who’s against you. Also, I wanted to shout out Kansas City, because we’ve been overlooked for far too long, and now we’re making our way to the forefront."

LP: How did you get into music? What made you want to be a musician?

Jamogi: I’ve been into music pretty much since I was in the womb. My mom told me that she would put a pair of headphones to her belly and play Michael Jackson and I would be moving around. Since then, I’ve just always loved music and performing. It feels so natural to me. It was the only thing that got my attention in school, and, to be honest, it was the only thing that I felt I could really excel at. I’m thankful for all the opportunities that led me to where I am today. If I wasn’t doing music, I’d be a firefighter right now.

LP: Who are your influences?

Jamogi: My influences come down to my big three: Michael Jackson, Beyoncé, and Tank & The Bangas. I adore their artistry, how they execute their craft, and how their music stands out in such unique ways. Beyond them, I’m deeply inspired by entertainers who know how to command a crowd and pour their hearts into their performances—icons like Tina Turner, Jackie Wilson, Janet Jackson, Bruno Mars, and Sammy Davis Jr.

When it comes to songwriting, I draw inspiration from James Fauntleroy, Victoria Monet, Mariah Carey, Lucky Daye, and Siedah Garrett. Vocally, I look up to Beyoncé, my mentor Ah’Lee Robinson, Peter Collins, Yebba, and Lauryn Hill. Honestly, my list of influences is long, but each one contributes to shaping the artist I am.

LP: How would you describe yourself as a musician/your music?

Jamogi: As a musician, I’m very detail oriented, and I pay attention to EVERYTHING. I expect a lot out of myself because I know I’m capable of doing it. To be honest, I have a strong sense of belief in myself. When it comes to my music, I would describe it as Pop RnB but to be honest, I listen to everything across genres, so I always try to incorporate that into my music. I absolutely hate being boxed into one thing, so I always try different ways of doing things. I’m curious as to how I’ll evolve musically as years come, because I know the music is going to be better than what I’m doing now. Eventually, I want to put out a project touching every genre. So that means some rock in the future, as well as country. But right now I’m in the pop/rnb/funk field and I’m having fun.

LP: What’s next for you in 2025?

Jamogi: Now, I can’t give away EVERYTHING for 2025, because some things have to stay a surprise. But what I will say is that I got some festivals lined up, and so far, every place I’ve dreamed of performing at is coming true, so I’m thankful for that. For the band, I just see us getting better. I can’t wait to see where we get the equipment to help make our shows even better to increase the experience. I only want to move forward. My overall goal is to make a positive impact in the Kansas City music scene, tour outside of the US, and be so well known that people will know how to pronounce my name the first time.