In the ever-evolving landscape of music, few artists dare to traverse uncharted territories with the audacity and authenticity of Skeatur Jones. Hailing from East St. Louis, Jones has masterfully blended the soulful narratives of bluegrass with the pulsating rhythms of trap to birth a genre he aptly names “bluegrap.” His latest single, “Giddy Up,” not only encapsulates this innovative sound but also breaks visual boundaries with its pioneering 3D animated video featuring Black characters in a country setting.
Growing up amidst a rich tapestry of musical influences—from church hymns and blues to hip-hop and Southern country—Jones found himself captivated by the storytelling essence of bluegrass and the raw energy of hip-hop. “I’ve always been drawn to both the storytelling of country and bluegrass and the energy of hip-hop and trap,” he reflects. This eclectic upbringing ignited a vision to create a sound that bridges these worlds, resulting in the birth of “bluegrap.” “It’s country soul with 808s, banjos with bass,” Jones describes. “It represents my roots and my vision for where music can go next.”
The animated visual for “Giddy Up” stands as a testament to Jones’s commitment to innovation and representation. By introducing characters like Baby Skeatur and Skeatur Jr., the video pays homage to the legacy of Black cowboys, a narrative often overlooked in mainstream media. “Black cowboys have been part of American history for centuries, but they’re rarely highlighted,” Jones emphasizes. “This visual was a way to celebrate that legacy while also embracing the modern hip-hop aesthetic.”
Set against a backdrop of monster trucks, expansive fields, and hip-hop-infused cowboy aesthetics, the video encapsulates themes of freedom, confidence, and cultural evolution. “Baby Skeatur and Skeatur Jr. symbolize the passing of traditions—how we carry our culture forward while adding our own twist,” Jones explains. He hopes that viewers are inspired to embrace their authentic selves, regardless of the spaces they occupy.
Jones’s East St. Louis roots have profoundly shaped his musical and artistic vision. The city’s resilience and rich musical heritage instilled in him a storytelling prowess that seamlessly blends diverse genres. “East St. Louis taught me how to hustle, how to tell real stories through music, and how to mix different cultures into something new,” he shares. This fusion is evident in “bluegrap,” where the boundaries of genre are transcended in favor of genuine storytelling and soul.
Partnering with 1501 Certified Entertainment has been a pivotal chapter in Jones’s journey. As the label’s first country artist, this collaboration underscores a shared vision of pushing musical boundaries. “They’ve helped me elevate my sound and reach a wider audience while staying true to my artistry,” Jones acknowledges. Fans can anticipate more groundbreaking records, creative visuals, and collaborations that unite country and hip-hop enthusiasts in unprecedented ways.
Navigating the fusion of country music’s traditional themes with hip-hop’s flair comes with its set of challenges, notably confronting stereotypes and genre purists. Yet, Jones remains undeterred. “The challenge is breaking stereotypes—some people think country should only sound one way, or that hip-hop doesn’t belong in these spaces,” he notes. “But music is about evolution.” His unwavering focus on authenticity and quality aims to dissolve these barriers, illustrating that these musical worlds are not only compatible but destined to intersect.
Looking ahead, Jones envisions “bluegrap” evolving into a full-fledged movement—a sanctuary where artists from varied backgrounds can create without constraints. “I want to inspire the next generation of artists to experiment and push boundaries,” he asserts. With aspirations of establishing its own festivals and culture, “bluegrap” is poised to be recognized as a formidable force in the music industry. “This is just the beginning,” Jones declares with conviction.
With “Giddy Up,” Skeatur Jones isn’t merely releasing a song; he’s orchestrating a cultural symphony that resonates across genres, visuals, and narratives. His fusion of bluegrass and trap, coupled with groundbreaking visuals, heralds a new era in music—one where boundaries are blurred, stories are diverse, and authenticity reigns supreme.
Photo Credit: Ashford Media
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