R&B newcomer Keith Jacobs prepares to influence the ever-changing soundscape
His new EP “Still Tippin” draws influences from Houston, trap, and the ’90s, blending to form a sound all his own.
In a time when R&B has no true, distinct sound, Houston newcomer Keith Jacobs has prepared to influence the shifting sonic landscape with his debut EP Still Tippin’. Throughout the project, Jacobs takes listeners on a melodic ride through emotional and consistent lyrical references of love, loyalty, and passion, serving up the good and bad of all.
REVOLT spoke more with the Houston artist to learn about his musical transparency and his come up.
In Still Tippin, you blended a mixture of sounds. Whether it’s keeping true to the traditional R&B sound or adding a bit of trap flavor. Why did you incorporate a spectrum of sounds?
This project is true creative expression of how I feel. Our goal was never to be genre specific but more so true and transparent about my experiences through the music.
Due to the array of different sounds, how would you define your style?
Honestly, the Still Tippin EP is so important to me because the project is a journey of me finding and developing my sound. I’m from Houston, I grew up at the height of the Screw Culture, I’m also a ’90s R&B baby. This personifies my sound.
How hard has it been coming up in the R&B side of the music industry? Especially for a genre that has no distinct sound?
It’s been challenging but fun nonetheless. As an artist our music culture has grown so much that hip-hop and R&B music are synonymous. For me as a creator and an artist it’s important to meet the culture at its core and share my perspective.
What message were you trying to convey with the interludes like “I Ain’t No Gangsta”?
As a black man in America we face a lot of stereotypes on the daily. It’s a lot of us out here dreamchasing the right way.
Would you consider this EP to be your breakout project in terms of more people learning about you as an artist? I know you’ve had other projects, but is this one setting the bar even higher for you personally?
Yes, totally. This EP forced me to grow out of my comfort zone, and also helped me to better appreciate the evolution my art. I’ve always done music but now my music is more personal and has more depth than before.
Your complementary music video is about nine minutes long. Did you make the video this long to play out an entire storyline that correlated with your project?
Totally! The intent was to be reminiscent of the ’90s video flavor. We wanted to have a story, a feeling, an emotion that gives another avenue for the audience to appreciate the music.
Watch Keith Jacobs’ short film below: