Joseph McCord is an independent artist born and raised in Elizabethtown, Kentucky, using the stage name JMC, deriving from his birth name. He has been making music for three years and plans on pursuing music as a full-time career once finishing school.
JMC considers his genre to be hip hop and pop, more specifically identifying as a melodic rapper. Much of his inspiration comes from gospel, classical pieces, and 60’s and 70’s rap; This variety being what he grew up listening to. In the future he hopes to collaborate with as many artists as possible across different genres, showcasing his versatility and open-minded nature. In addition to versatile, he describes his image as honest, respectful, uplifting, shy, and a critical thinker.
Outside of music, McCord is a senior at the University of Kentucky. His goal this year is to finish his education, graduate, and continue to make bigger moves in the music industry. With that being said, his music career is truly just beginning. 
In addition to life outside of the industry, he also enjoys video games, stargazing, and giving back to the community. When asked about the ways he has given back he stated, “Every year during the holiday season, me and my family always give blankets to the elderly in nursing homes and the homeless in shelter homes. I believe it is important to give back, because you never know who will be in need next, [it] could be me, my family, etc. The bottom line is giving is part of living.” To sum this up, the “If you leave” rapper lives by the motto treat people how you want to be treated.
An aspect of the industry JMC wishes he had known more about prior is the importance of advertisement and just how much it can help a rising artist. Learning this element, JMC will increase his marketing skills so that within the next five years, he is a successful artist, spreading positivity, and making Kentucky proud.
One day, McCord wants to be an icon, inspiring others on a large platform, and bring people joy. So far, JMC has felt success after dropping his first music video titled “call it make believe,” receiving lots of positive feedback. He feels as though the road has been smooth thus far, simply learning to adjust and keep moving forward.
Currently, he has four singles and one EP, with his personal favorite being “Favorite Rapper” because even though it was a quick process, he had the most fun making it. McCord writes all of his own tracks and works with the engineer Christionamir at 400 Studios. Working with engineers as well as fellow artists and fans is his favorite aspect about being an artist.
When asked why should people listen to his music, JMC said, “If people like positivity and good vibes, definitely listen to my music. I’m open to anyone checking out my art. I just want to have a connection and [have] my songs be able to relate and encourage you in the long run.”
A piece of advice he gives to those following in his footsteps is, “Be consistent, never give up, and be patient. There will come a time where you might get writers block, or lose motivation, but everything will work out in time.”
As a final message to his fans he says, “I love and appreciate every one of you, I am so grateful to have fans. Be patient with me, I promise I will do great things.”
Stay on the lookout for his project “FYI” which he plans on releasing shortly after graduation!
SOCIAL SITES
Instagram: j_s_mccord
YouTube: OfficialJMC
WRITTEN BY: BRIANNA RIZZI
