24: Introduce yourself to everyone that doesn’t already know who you are.

Jcarns: What’s up everybody, I’m Jcarns out of Bradenton, FL

24: How was the music scene growing up where your from?

Jcarns: The music scene growing up was very prevalent. I learned the art of the game from those I grow up listening to from my hometown such as 41 Boys, Sho Off ENT, my big cuz JoeBlacc, Just to name a few.  Growing up, I didn’t really listen to mainstream rap because in my mind some of the best rappers were from my hood.

24: Before we get into your music, briefly tell us your history about how you got into the industry and who were some of your inspirations?

Jcarns: I got into the industry when I was just 12 years old. My homeboy and I formed the group CEB and began grinding, searching for every rappers dream, signing a deal.  In 2008, the group became defunct and we kind of all went our separate ways.  That same year I went off to college in Chicago and help form the multitalented conglomerate National Ties.  Three years and Three mix tapes later the rest is history.  My inspirations throughout my years came from my family, all the people around me that said I couldn’t do it, and most of all our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

24: In your opinion, what do you feel sets you apart from other artists coming out now?

Jcarns: The components that really set me apart from other artists my versatility and the messages I am portraying. Every song I write has a purpose behind it.  I think one thing that I really put on display is the amount of passion and emotion I incorporate into my music.  This is very important because how do you expect people to feel your music when it seems like you are just going through the motions.

24: Describe your sound/style of music.

Jcarns: I can describe my sound as a more contemporary artist but at the same time very passionate.  I show the world that you can have hit songs without every other word being a curse word.

24: How do you feel about the state of today’s music industry?

Jcarns: To be honest, I think the state of today’s industry is spiraling in the negative direction. I don’t really knock anyone but I think a lot of the artists that are coming out today are rapping about nonsense.  They do not bring a message or they bring a negative message to the generation that’s growing up today.  All they talk about is about how much money they have, how much dope they, or how many girls they have had sex with.  I’m the type of artist that looks to make a difference in society.

24: What is the name of your current single and how did the song come about?

Jcarns: The name of my current single is I’m Going to Serve, which I wrote after I went on a mission trip to the Dominican Republic this past spring break. I talk about my experiences and the struggles that are taking place over there.

24: What producers have you worked with or would like to work with on this upcoming project?

Jcarns: I haven’t worked with many producers because I have my own in-house producer with National Ties by the name of AKA TK.  In the future, I will like to work with some of the super producers such as Timberland and Storch.

24: Can you give us an estimation/time period on when that project, will it be available for download?

Jcarns: I released my debut solo album entitled Unsung Hero back in April in Chicago Illinois. The digital download will be available in Mid-Late June.

24: Are you happy with the feedback you’ve been getting from the song so

Jcarns: I ecstatic about the amount of positive feedback I have received. It is really a blessing that people have appreciated the talents I bring to each track I’m on. Many people that listen to my music really enjoyed the style because it different from everyone else.

24: What type of features can we expect on the project?

Jcarns: Unsung Hero features my group mates; Aka TK, Qvella, and EJ.  I also collaborated with Unstoppable and Ando out of NY and Freedom Writer out of Memphis.

24: Where do you see yourself going in 2011?

Jcarns: I see myself doing enormous things in 2011. I have too much talent as an artist and as a businessman for a label to look over me.

24: And when is your album coming?

Jcarns: I released Unsung Hero in April and now I’m working on a National Ties album that will be due out later this year or early 2012.

24: How would the fans go about contacting you?

Jcarns: I can be reached on face book search John Carnegie.  I also can be reached by email at john.carnegie@my.wheaton.edu

24: Thank you for providing 24hourhiphop.com with this exclusive interview, do you have any last words for your present and future fans?

Jcarns: I want to thank all my fans for the support National Ties have received over the years and for the continuous support I have been receiving as a solo artist.