Music Essentials: Jonwayne (Stones Throw Records)

The notorious Hollywood cowboy Marion Morrison, better known on the silver screens as John Wayne, took his name from General “Mad Anthony” Wayne, a US Army officer in the American Revolutionary War. In a complete different realm, bizarre hip-hop poet Jonwayne, who just so happens to be the descendant of the late great war hero, is taking his name back, heading the scene with a fiery disposition synonymous to that of his great-great-great-great uncle.

A product of Los Angeles’ progressive hip-hop landscape, Jonwayne made his official debut as a rapper via RAP ALBUM ONE on Stones Throw Records. Preceded by a slew of mixtapes under the Cassette volume, alongside various production projects such as the instrumental album Bowser, Jonwayne’s DIY approach can be seen from his homemade album art to his lo-fi beat tapes — a nonchalant style that continues to compel his niche, yet loyal following. Having collaborated with the likes of Flying Lotus, Jeremiah Jae and stalwarts of the East LA beat scene, Jon continues to provide enticing shows regularly at Low End Theory, and more recently, via a US tour with Mount Kimbie. Alongside the basic hardware used in live performances, Jon carries with him a Bluetooth speaker that help soundtracks his road trip in his Music Essentials, while a romance novel by Charles Bukowski provides food for thought. Enjoy the rapper-producer’s Music Essentials above and stay tuned for our next installment.

Photo Credit: Theonepointeight