John Jigg$ brings the boom bap feeling back to hip hop. After years of building a steady fan base through his music and touring around the world, Jigg$ is preparing to release his collaborative album with legendary producer EZ Elpee. Known for crafting classic records during the golden era of Bad Boy Records, EZ Elpee joins forces with Jigg$ for a project that blends gritty lyricism with timeless production.
Jigg$ recently sat down with HipHopMyWay to discuss working with the veteran hitmaker, the creative process behind the upcoming album, and what fans can expect next as he continues to build his legacy in independent hip hop.
You’ve built a reputation for keeping that authentic boom bap sound alive in today’s hip hop scene. What keeps you inspired to stay true to that classic style while still pushing your music forward?To me, it’s all about being true to myself and what’s real to me. Music is about talent, but it’s also about feeling I pride myself on only making the type of music that feels good to me. The biggest reward is when it also feels good to the fans.
Your upcoming collaboration with EZ Elpee has fans excited. What was it like working with someone who helped shape the sound of classic Bad Boy Records records, and how did that chemistry come together in the studio?Before me & EZ really started working heavy in the studio, we built a friendship. I think this is a key factor that is missing in today’s hip-hop scene. See once we started to understand each other better, the music began to improve just based off raw synergy. Through getting to know each other I have a better understanding of what he needs from me as an Emcee and I think he’s getting a better understanding of the sound I’m looking for.
From projects like “Grand Royale” and “The Madness” to your newer collaborations, you’ve worked with a wide range of producers. How do you adapt your writing process depending on the production you’re given? Really all I do is just let the production speak to me when I listen to those tracks however it makes me feel is the direction not going it’s never forced or conjured, I just let things happen naturally.
A lot of your music touches on real-life struggles, loyalty, and perseverance. How much of your music comes directly from personal experiences and the lessons you’ve learned over the years?I would say about 80% of what you hear in my music is based on something I’ve either gone through or been very close to someone going through this. The other 20%.Would be more about my aspirations either where I plan to be or fill out, deserve to be speaking it into fruition if you will.
You’ve toured internationally and steadily built a loyal underground fan base. What’s been the biggest lesson you’ve learned from connecting with fans around the world? The biggest thing I’ve learned is how much this music really affects people. For some coming to your show and watching you perform or pulling up to a meet and greet or just you taking a picture or assigning an autograph is the highlight of their life and I don’t take that for granted I give 150% on stage every time.
Your Spotify catalog shows a strong consistency and work ethic over the years. Looking back at your journey so far, which project or moment do you feel truly elevated your career to another level? I would say the Twin Cannons project with K Sluggah. That was my first Vinyl deal, first international tour, the first time I got on a lot of people‘s radar. The production, the level of hunger on that project. I’m still chasing that now. I also feel like this new project witEZ ELPEE is it gonna take me places I never thought I could be until now.
Beyond the new album, what’s next for John Jigg$ in 2026? Are there any dream collaborations, tours, or creative moves fans should be watching out for? Me EZ ELPEE have plenty of music to release and we’re constantly working, but specifically we will be going on tour for this new album so please stay tuned for updates we are coming to a city near you.
