Notes of Ambition: The Rise of Jacquees as an R&B Artist & Cannabis Visionary

In the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary music, few artists manage to carve out a niche as distinctive as Jacquees, both in sound and atmosphere. With a unique blend of soulful R&B and energetic rap, Jacquees has captivated audiences worldwide, amassing millions of dedicated followers on Instagram and TikTok as part of Team Jacquees. Beyond his musical prowess and talents as King of R&B of his generation, he has also expanded his influence into entrepreneurship, starting a Wine & Tapas Lounge in his home town in Georgia, and most notably with his latest venture, The King Cannabis.

Jacquees, born Rodriquez Jacquees Broadnax on April 15, 1994, in Decatur, Georgia, exhibited an early passion for music and started teaching himself to sing at the age of 9. Influenced by the likes of Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, and Usher, Jacquees began his musical journey by participating in local talent shows and church choirs. In 2011 he launched his solo career with the EP “I Am Jacquees”, which featured the single "Krazy" in collaboration with T.I. The mixtape “Round of Applause” followed soon afterward, “Fan Affiliated” debuted in 2012, and “QueMix” in 2013. Shortly after his release of “19” in 2014, Jacquees signed with Cash Money Records, a major milestone that opened doors to collaborations with industry heavyweights like Chris Brown, Trey Songz, and Ty Dolla Sign. These upward moves solidified his status as a rising star, and subsequent projects like "Mood" and "Since You Playin" only cemented his position in the industry.

What sets Jacquees apart is his ability to seamlessly blend R&B and hip-hop, creating a unique sonic palette that resonates with a diverse audience. His sultry, melodic crooning combined with the rhythmic flow of his rap verses gives his music a distinct flavor that transcends genre boundaries. There’s also just something about the vibes he puts out, the way he moves through the music world, and the way he talks about his career path that is engaging and addicting. He’s friendly, polite, intelligent, and humble. He’s proud of his background, his family, and where he came from. He loves to talk about cannabis and laughs at my would-you-rathers. When I asked him what his greatest achievement was in his life, he said “I’m most proud of myself for sticking to my life script, sticking to the plan and following my dreams. You know, following what’s always been in my mind and what I’ve believed in since I was young, and just not giving up on it”. 

As of 2023, Jacquees is embarking on a thrilling tour as the headliner, bringing his electrifying performances to fans across the globe. The "Sincerely For You” tour is a testament to Jacquees' confidence in his craft,  his willingness to claim his place among the genre's royalty and a ‘thank you’ to TeamJacquees. The tour promises an immersive experience, with Jacquees' powerhouse vocals, dynamic stage presence, and an impressive catalog of hits. From intimate venues to grand arenas and from Azerbaijan to the Bahamas to Denver, Jacquees aims to connect with his audience on a personal level, delivering a memorable concert experience. 

One of the highlights of the "Sincerely For You" tour is Jacquees' dedication to showcasing the evolution of his sound. Fans can expect a carefully curated setlist that spans his discography, from early tracks that garnered him attention to the latest hits that dominate the airwaves. The tour not only celebrates Jacquees' journey but also serves as a platform for his huge fan base to witness his growth as an artist. In an era where live performances are valued as much as studio recordings, Jacquees' tour is a testament to his commitment to providing an unforgettable musical experience. With a blend of soul-stirring ballads and high-energy rap, each concert is a celebration of the multifaceted artist that Jacquees has become.

Beyond the realm of music, Jacquees has ventured into the world of entrepreneurship by first opening his own restaurant called The Wine & Tapas Lounge in Stonecrest, Georgia, which is in Dekalb county where he grew up. He’s also launching a new cannabis project, aptly named The King Cannabis. In an industry that continues to gain widespread acceptance and legalization, Jacquees has seized the opportunity to merge his passion for cannabis with business acumen. 

However, The King Cannabis is not just a business endeavor for Jacquees; it is an extension of his identity and a reflection of the lifestyle he advocates. The brand aims to deliver premium cannabis products, ranging from flower to edibles, infused with the essence of Jacquees' signature style. The emphasis on quality and authenticity sets The King Cannabis apart in a market inundated with options, especially for flower, which is his personal preferred method of consumption. You can find The King Cannabis, in collaboration with OG Inc., in Oregon, Washington, and New Mexico, with plans for expansion to more states in the works. 

Jacquees' involvement in the cannabis industry also underscores a broader movement within the music world, where artists are diversifying their portfolios beyond music. From fashion to tech and now cannabis, musicians are engaging with their own personal interests and things they care about, to make a mark in different industries. The King Cannabis is not merely a product line; it represents Jacquees' vision for a lifestyle brand that resonates with his fan base, as well as his own passion for the plant. Jacquees started consuming cannabis himself as a late teen, and said that it helps with his relaxation, creativity, and just generally taking his mind off things if he needs to chill out while on tour or at home.

Jacquees stands out as an authentic and original artist, seamlessly blending R&B and rap to create a sound uniquely his own, with a reputation to match. From his early days covering songs on YouTube to signing with Cash Money Records to his current international tour, Jacquees has navigated the challenges of the industry with the unwavering determination he’s had since he taught himself to sing in third grade. 

Jacquees' story is one of talent, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit. As he continues to make waves in the music and business worlds, one thing is clear: Jacquees is not just an artist; he is a cultural force, leaving an indelible mark on the industry and beyond. Whether through the soulful notes of his music or The King Cannabis brand, Jacquees' impact reverberates far beyond the confines of the stage. His venture into the cannabis industry adds another layer to his identity, emphasizing the intersection of music, lifestyle, and determination that he puts into each one of his projects. His next album is slated to come out in January, and there’s no stopping his incredible success in every aspect of his career. Visit Jacqueeslive.com for his tour schedule and music and TheKingCannabis.com for The King Cannabis products and locations. You can also find them on Instagram at @jacquees and @the.kingcannabis.

Many thanks to Jacquees, Taylor Brooks, and Marcelle Burke for taking the time to arrange and conduct this interview.  

Get to know Jacquees

What's your favorite meal when you're smoking?

I would probably want something cooked from the crib… I want some home cooked food, anything my mom makes.

What’s your favorite method of consumption?

The only way I consume is really flower, and sometimes (vape) pens. If I had to have it my way, 100% it would be flower. 

Would you rather be in a horror movie with your friends or romantic comedy with your enemies?

A horror movie with my friends.

Would you rather be invisible or be able to fly?

Fly, I always have dreams about that.

Would you rather go into space or to the bottom of the ocean?

I’d rather go into space than to the bottom of the ocean… I don't want to deal with all that water, that freaks me out.