Life Changing Albums: James Gardin talks Talib Kweli

Over the last 15 years, James Gardin has been a vibrant force in Lansing’s music scene. His empowering rhymes are backed by fun, soulful beats and topped off with electrifying live performances. 

His lyric books are filled with dynamic words that range from cerebral and reflective to cool and confident. His catalog is bursting with good vibes, while still maintaining a poetic, provocative edge. 

That poignantly fresh sound comes from years loving not only top-notch rap albums and mixtapes, but also gospel, soul and funky R&B. His acclaimed solo discography tastefully echoes an array of those inspiring legends — Kirk Franklin, Kanye West and Bill Withers, to name a few. The result? His own releases are often compared to the likes of Chance The Rapper, Anderson .Paak, and Childish Gambino. 

Hundreds of shows and stacks of recordings later, his career has been covered in countless rap publications, but also via major outlets like USA Today. His music has also been licensed on major placements for Apple, T- Mobile, Spotify, Tommy Hilfiger and ESPN, among others. 

In this edition of the “Life Changing Albums” series, Gardin digs back to his childhood and recalls how he first discovered a now-classic hip-hop LP, released by Rawkus Records in 2002. 

What is the album that changed your life and when did you discover it? 

It’s Talib Kweli’s album “Quality.” I had to be around 16. I was in high school, it was 2002, and I was just a shy kid still trying to find my voice in this world. 

Who introduced you to the LP? 

I remember the exact person, but I don’t want to get them in trouble. So, someone sold me a burnt copy of the album for $5 in our geometry class. I ended up purchasing it the legit way later on. If you want a representation of some of hip hop’s best in 2002 — listen to this album. If you want to hear and feel what Brooklyn was like though the eyes and voice of one of their citizens — listen to this album. 

Did the album have an immediate impact on you, or did it take time to grow on you? 

The album was the first time I really fell in love with an album that had conscious content. I was raised by the radio, so before then, I only listened to what would be deemed a hit. This was the first time I was getting introduced to Talib’s music, Black Thought and Kanye. 

Music or lyrics — which one touched you the most on “Quality”?  

The lyrics! This album had some of the best rapping I had heard at that time, and the content is so honest and human. “Get By” was of course a hit, but songs like “Where Do We Go” had such a strong emotional connection and message. It really resonated with me. This album was probably one of the catalysts that let me know my content could reflect my real life and I didn’t have to push fantasy or a facade in my lyrics. This album also made me really care about my lyrics being thought provoking and clever. 

Can this album change your mood? When is the best time to listen to “Quality”? 

This album can definitely change my mood. It’s an album that reminds me of simpler times. As I answer this question, I think the best time to listen to this album is right now. It’s wild that a couple years ago I was able to open up for Talib. I really wish I would’ve told him all of this in person. I don’t think I would be the artist I am today without his album. 

During the shutdown, what were you up to? 

During the pandemic, I released my first self-produced album “I Probably Wrote This While Crying.” I made it at home and it’s probably one of my most personal records. I’m super proud with how vulnerable and raw it feels. The pandemic was a time of self-discovery and growth and this album really shows an honest snapshot of that journey. 

What’s next for James Gardin? 

I’m wrapping up an album that should be out by fall of 2022. I plan on dropping singles starting in the spring of 2022. I am also back to booking shows as the world keeps opening up. You’ll be seeing a lot more from me.  

Visit supercleanjames.com for more information on James Gardin.