Racquel Jones is one fierce woman. Rapper, artist, and model. The woman can do it all. Known for her work with duo Thievery Corporation, Jones is branching out onto a territory all on her own. She released her own solo music project entitled IgnoRANT and it embraces not only all genres of music but the glaring issues of our time–racism, misogyny, and religion are a few of the tough topics covered in the album. I caught up with Jones for a quick Q&A and this is what she had to say:
What prompted you to do your own solo project at this time?
This is a project I wanted to do for years now. It was finally time, and it was very necessary given the current state of things, in my opinion. I am more comfortable now as an artist, I found my voice and figured out how I wanted to say things.
What are some of your goals for IgnoRANT?
I had/have one goal. I don’t know if it’s attainable, but a girl can only dream and only hope that I make whatever impactful contribution I can to make it happen. But the goal would be to end the things that inspired the album, so I don’t have to make music with content like that anymore.
The album delves into many deep issues that are very relevant today. Did your own experiences help fuel this project?
Most definitely. So did the experiences of people I have watched hurt and suffered by the hands of stereotypes, injustice, ostracization and segregation.
IgnoRANT is musically very aggressive compared to Thievery Corporation. Are you planning on going solo?
I am a solo artist. Thievery Corporation is made up of two people. Eric Hilton and Rob Garza. I was featured on a thievery Corporation record and have been touring with them since. When I step on a stage with or without Thievery, before and after Thievery, I am Racquel Jones.
How does being a rapper, painter, and model differ from each platform? How are they the same based on your experiences?
The only thing that’s vastly different on that list is modeling. Rapping and painting comes from the same place creatively, just a different output. Modeling… well I took pretty pictures and walked down runways in really cool clothes because it was fun at the time until I got bored with it.
The album unleashes some ferocious lyrics. Did you know you had this in you?
Yes. And a lot more.
Tell me about the album artwork. Where did you get the inspiration for it?
So, the album artwork is a surreal visual expression of my Jamaican upbringing, my past, who I was, who am I currently, my pain, spiritual influences, my trauma, my fragility, my strength, my love and passion for my country… all on display in a pure, raw vulnerable form.
What is next for you? Touring?
My art exhibition. Tour with Thievery. More solo music.
