JSWISS - Slow Down (Single)
“Slow Down” is the latest single from accomplished and prolific New York-based MC JSWISS. The track is produced by producer, drummer and lead member of future soul collective The Love Experiment, Charles Burchell aka BLVK SAMuRaI. Centred around a key message to himself, relatable to all of us, JSWISS reminds us that whatever is going to happen, is going to happen – “I just got to Slow Down”.
JSWISS and BLVK SAMuRaI had known each other for over a decade when JSWISS invited BLVK SAMuRaI (who was living in Italy at the time) to perform with him and Michael Leonhart in France, playing the inaugural United Music of Deauville, Sunset-Sunside, Paris and for a live session with FIP Radio France. The pair were on the train from Deauville to Paris alongside the late saxophonist/producer Casey Benjamin when BLVK SAMuRaI created the track, with JSWISS later adding his own touches and lyrical flair. As the beat bounces, his flow catches the wave with playful and insightful lyricism, referencing Allen Iverson on “I found The Answer in the soul/sole like Reeboks”.
On the note of “Slow Down”, JSWISS adds: “I think I'm finally star=ng to get it”.
The track follows recent singles “Superman feat. Eric Roberson” and “One feat. Marcus Strickland” which saw support from New Music Fix, BBC 6Music and VIBE, alongside performances from the prolific artist at New York’s Blue Note joining CARRTOONS, Kiefer and Nate Smith on stage, supporting Ana Tijoux at LPR New York and appearing as part of BAM Brooklyn’s World. Sound. Power. series.“I'm an ambi=ous and driven ar=st, and I'm also a son and friend who cares about being there for the ones I love, and I recognize the importance of taking care of my own mental health. It can be a lot for me, and for a lot of people. We’re not alone”.
Through collaborations and his own solo releases JSWISS continues to develop a reputation as a consistent and adaptable artist. Recently collaborating with Sly5thAve on ‘Somebody’s Gotta Do It’, the pair embodied the improvisational energy of the world of New York jam sessions and open mics. The release received support from Lauren Laverne, Huey Morgan (BBC 6Music), Tony Minvielle (Jazz FM) and KCRW and the pair went on to perform tracks from the release supporting Alfa Mist on his US tour. His work with Michael Leonhart has led to collaborations with Elvis Costello, Keyon Harrold, and DJ Logic, with performances broadcast on NPR, WBGO and FIP. He has also provided vocals for Bruk Rogers on his Tru Thoughts release, gaining support from BBC 6Music and beyond.
Beyond this JSWISS has received acclaim and praise from the likes of The Source, Complex, Hip Hop DX, Ambrosia For Heads, Soultracks, Weekly Rap Gods and RESPECT Magazine. Further collaboraVons include Maurice “Mobe\a” Brown, Ben Williams, Marcus Strickland, Nate Smith and many more, with JSWISS taking to the notable and legendary stages of the Apollo Theatre, Blue Note Jazz Club, Nublu, Music Hall of Williamsburg, Racket NYC and even New York Botanical Garden.