Juice Wrld, also known as Jarad Anthony Higgins, was a talented American rapper, singer, and songwriter who sadly passed away at a very young age. Despite his short life, he managed to leave a lasting impact on the music industry through his unique style and emotionally charged lyrics. To fully understand Juice Wrld’s music, it is important to delve into his influences and the music he listened to.
Influences that Shaped Juice Wrld’s Sound
1. Eminem: The Rap God
One of the artists who had a significant influence on Juice Wrld’s music was the legendary Eminem. Being a skilled wordsmith himself, Juice Wrld admired Eminem’s lyrical ability, creative storytelling, and his ability to connect with his audience. It is no surprise that some of Juice Wrld’s songs contain references to Eminem’s work, and he often expressed his admiration and inspiration from the Rap God.
2. Rock and Alternative Music
While Juice Wrld is predominantly known for his rap and hip-hop style, he also drew inspiration from rock and alternative music. Bands like Blink-182 and Fall Out Boy played a pivotal role in shaping his sound. Juice Wrld incorporated guitar-infused melodies and elements of pop-punk into his music, creating a unique fusion that appealed to a wide range of listeners.
3. Future and Lil Wayne: Pioneers of Autotune
Both Future and Lil Wayne played significant roles in popularizing the use of autotune in rap music. Juice Wrld, being a fan of both artists, incorporated autotune into his own music, giving it a distinct sound. While some critics argue that autotune removes authenticity from an artist’s voice, Juice Wrld managed to use it to his advantage, adding a melodic and emotionally raw element to his tracks.
Diverse Musical Palette: Juice Wrld’s Eclectic Taste
1. Old-School Hip-Hop
Juice Wrld was not limited to one specific genre; instead, he had a diverse taste in music. He often found himself drawn to the old-school hip-hop scene, admiring artists like Tupac Shakur and Nas. This is evident in his lyrics, where he skillfully combines elements of modern rap with nostalgic vibes from the ’90s, paying homage to the pioneers who paved the way for the genre.
2. Pop Icons and R&B Legends
Apart from rap and hip-hop, Juice Wrld found inspiration in the works of pop icons and R&B legends. He admired the likes of Michael Jackson, The Beatles, and Whitney Houston, appreciating their timeless music and the emotions they conveyed through their songs. It is this diverse range of influences that allowed Juice Wrld to create music that transcended conventional boundaries.
3. Contemporary Rap
Of course, Juice Wrld took inspiration from his contemporaries in the rap scene as well. Artists such as Travis Scott, Lil Uzi Vert, and Kid Cudi influenced his music, pushing him to experiment with different sounds and expand his creative horizons. By incorporating elements from various sub-genres of rap, Juice Wrld not only appealed to a younger audience but also showcased his versatility as an artist.
The Impact of Juice Wrld’s Influences on His Music
The influences behind Juice Wrld’s music were diverse, ranging from rap icons to rock legends and everything in between. However, what set Juice Wrld apart was his ability to take these influences and create a sound that was uniquely his own.
By combining emotionally charged lyrics with melodies that showcased his pain and vulnerability, Juice Wrld was able to connect with his listeners on a deep, personal level. His music resonated with a generation that was grappling with similar issues of mental health, heartbreak, and substance abuse.
Juice Wrld’s influences not only guided his musical direction but also shaped his outlook on life. His music often reflected the realities of his own personal struggles and experiences, allowing fans to relate to his raw and authentic storytelling. It is this honest and relatable approach that endeared him to millions of fans around the world.
In Conclusion
Juice Wrld’s music was a culmination of various influences from different genres and artists. From rap legends like Eminem to rock icons like Blink-182, he seamlessly blended elements from diverse musical palettes to create a sound that was uniquely his own. These influences not only shaped his music but also allowed him to connect with his audience on a profound level.
Juice Wrld’s legacy as an artist will continue to thrive, reminding us of the immense talent he possessed. While he may no longer be with us, his music will forever be a testament to his passion, vulnerability, and undeniable impact on the music industry.