FLM: Where are you from?
JW: West Helena, Arkansas
FLM: What is your creative passion?
JW: Music!
FLM: What does music mean to you?
JW: Music is like one of my bodily organs! It's been apart of me since I was in the womb. Music carried me through the hardest and best times, encouraging me to see worth in myself. Music communicated to me when everyone seemed quiet. I'm not sure my words could grasp how much music means to me.
FLM: What is your process like when creating new music? How do you get in the zone?
JW: My process is not super consistent. I noticed, however, that the mood mostly strikes when I feel inspired. I could be inspired by music from others, life situations I experience and witness, and a number of other reasons. It's almost like I take some form of stimulation and turn it into a song.
FLM: What got you into your music career? How long have you been doing music?
JW: I come from a family full of singers, and happen to be the youngest child so it was in me before I was in it. I sang solos in church starting at the age of 3, then began playing keyboard and drums for the church until I was 17. From there I ventured right into studio recording. I've just constantly flowed from one area of music to another. Music chose me, and I wouldn't have it any other way.
FLM: What are you bringing to the world that it doesn't have right now?
JW: I believe I'm bringing a sort of honest calm. Like, I tell it like it is, throw shade, rip band-aids off... but I do it lovingly, and with the most care! Lol. I also think there is a big market in music for the good women; the women who are bosses, are strong but still support their man, the women who can't be a side chick or won't stomp on other women to claim a crown that is already theirs. It's kind of bold, yet benevolent.
FLM: Who or what inspires you artistically?
JW: My inspiration will forever and always be my mother Linda P.G. Word. She spent her entire life writing poetry and songs, and drawing pictures that were great examples of the endless ways we express art as artists. She inspired me to be comfortable with where I am artistically, while also never limiting myself or being concerned about the expectations of others.
FLM: Where has your career taken you so far?
JW: Most important of all, my career has connecting me with some AMAZING people! I am so blessed to have met so many people who are passionate about music among so many other dope things. I can't wait to witness the growth and I'm here for every bit of it. I'm treating it like a marathon. It takes time to get the right elements. This is only the beginning.
FLM: How would you describe your creative style?
JW: I'd describe my creative style as mostly spontaneous when you break it down, however the big picture is always very deliberate. Still, I consider my particular style to be very diverse, and I work purposefully to continue becoming more diverse throughout my career. I'm an extremely visual person and enjoy honing in on details that are often overlooked.
FLM: What are some other hobbies or interest of yours?
JW: I love to travel, first and foremost! But I also enjoy sports, working with the youth and maintaining involvement in the community. I enjoy reading, and STILL write with pen and paper in 2022. Spending time with the ones I love and good-hearted strangers is also a great joy of mine. Oh, and I can't forget the outdoors.. I LOVE a good hike.
FLM: Who have you collaborated with so far?
JW: I'm so excited about my collaboration with Arkansas Bo, an accomplished rap artist well-known throughout the region his name represents. I've also got to shout out extremely talented up-and-coming artists Ethel Tamara and Lee. I'm so proud to be in the company of these great artists. Collaboration will continue to be a BIG focus of mine throughout my career so I'll definitely be adding to list and I couldn't be more excited about it..
FLM: Who do you want to work with in the future?
JW: EVERYONE knows I want to work with Chris Brown. I think we'd pump out 100 hits just together alone! I don't even have to say a word on the songs. Just let me write! Lol. I've also entertained the idea of working with H.E.R., Janelle Monae, Erykah Badu, Jhene Aiko, and Lauryn Hill. That would do it.
FLM: Any projects that we should be on the lookout for?
JW: My latest project "With or Without You" dropped earlier this year [2022]. Link: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/justineword/with-or-without-you I will soon announce info about my 2nd project's release. Check out my singles "Love Song" & "B.A.F.", the singles "Your Biggest Flex" by Ethel Tamara and "Side Thoughts" by Lee, both singles featuring Yours Truly. Everything is available on your favorite music app.
FLM: Where can we follow you?
JW: IG: @justineword, YT: Justine Word-Ish, Twiter: @notjustineword, FB: Justine Word