In the Studio with MONEY JEZU$: From Southern Roots to the Future of Sound
MONEY JEZU$ has been on a steady rise in the music industry, establishing himself as a go-to producer for artists across genres. Known for his adaptability and intuitive approach to sound, he’s crafted hits with a diverse lineup, from Big Sean and Don Toliver to Kiana Ledé. The range of his work reflects a producer who not only understands the importance of versatility but one who finds joy in creating an atmosphere tailored to each artist's essence. As his music gains traction, MONEY JEZU$ continues to explore new avenues, recently diving into genres like house music, proving that he’s far from sticking to one lane.
He opens up about the defining moments of his career, including the impact of personal loss on his work and the lessons he’s carried from those experiences. He describes how losing his mother gave him a renewed sense of purpose, pushing him to elevate his career while keeping her memory close. We also touch on some standout projects, from Lil Tecca’s latest album, Plan A, to Kiana Ledé’s “Fairplay.” He’s candid about the creative process behind these hits, offering a glimpse into the balance he maintains between innovation and staying true to his roots. Here’s what MONEY JEZU$ had to share about his journey, his influences, and what lies ahead.
Photo: MONEY JEZU$
You’ve worked with an impressive range of artists, from Big Sean to Kiana Ledé. How do you approach adapting your production style for different artists and genres?
MJ: Honestly, I’m not even sure how I do it. It’s like I tap into a certain vibe that helps me figure out exactly what the artist needs. Even though the artist I have worked with have completely different styles, I’m able to create something that fits their vibes really well.
Growing up in the South, and especially with your early start observing your mother manage a dance group, how did that environment shape your ear for rhythm and sound?
MJ: Growing up in that environment made my approach to music feel really natural. I used to sit and watch my older siblings rehearse, and I was always captivated by how they connected with the music. It’s always just been in my blood.
The loss of your mother seems to have had a profound impact on your journey. How did that personal moment inspire you to elevate your career, and does her influence still resonate in your music today?
MJ: That moment changed me for life. I remember it like it was yesterday, making a promise to myself that I’d never let my mama down, no matter what. Losing someone who literally brought you into this world isn’t easy, especially after losing my dad years prior, and it’s something that stays with you forever.
You produced Don Toliver’s track “I Can’t Let Go” on Lil Tecca’s new album Plan A. What was your creative process behind that track, and how did you tailor the production to complement Don’s signature style while fitting within the overall sound of the album?
MJ: I’ve been a fan of Don for a while now, and ‘Hardstone’ is one of my favorite albums, so I really tapped into that vibe. On top of that, I worked with my dawgs 206 Derek, Bugz Ronin, and Bhristo, so naturally the beat was gonna go crazy.
You broke into the industry with the Cap 1 mixtape, featuring heavy hitters like Jeremih and 2 Chainz. What was it like working on that project, and how did it set the tone for your career moving forward?
MJ: That was a big year for me. I’d been trying to connect with bigger artists, and that opportunity just landed in my lap. I was sending out beat packs, and that track was the one they chose. It definitely opened a lot of doors and made more artists take me seriously.
What’s been your favorite collaboration so far, and why?
MJ: That’s a tough one, but I’d have to say Big Sean’s “Certified.” I’ve been a fan of Sean since day one, so working with him was definitely a dream collaboration for me.
In a world where technology in music production is constantly evolving, how do you balance staying ahead of the curve with preserving that original sound you fell in love with on your Casio keyboard?
MJ: I stay focused and never take my foot off the gas. I keep my ears to the streets and constantly evolve. I’m always learning, staying ahead, while still holding onto that original sound that got me into this.
Photo: MONEY JEZU$
Kiana Ledé’s “Fairplay” and Chris Brown’s “Only 4 Me” have very different vibes. Can you walk us through your creative process for each track and how you developed such distinct moods for both?
MJ: For “Fairplay,” I wanted to create something with a bouncy vibe. I had the beat ready about a month before playing it for Kiana. When I played it for her, she gave me this look like, “This is hard,” and that’s when I knew we had something. As for the Chris Brown track, I worked on that beat with Kb1zz and Danja. We were throwing around a bunch of ideas, and it turned into a fun, high-energy track. That song actually has 10 different versions.
You’ve worked on a wide range of projects, from mainstream albums to more niche releases. How do you decide which projects to take on, and what excites you about working on an artist’s sound?
MJ: Most of the time, I don’t really decide. It usually happens by chance. Maybe a writer will vibe with one of my beats and cut something to it, I’ll be cooking up with an artist in a session, or an A&R might play it for an artist. It’s pretty random. I just create based on how I’m feeling and set the vibe, and the artist usually gravitates to it naturally.
You’ve built a reputation for being versatile. Are there any genres or styles you haven’t explored yet but are curious to dive into?
MJ: I’m really excited about fully diving into house music soon. I’ve got a few releases coming that carry that vibe. I love the energy and the feeling it gives off.
With all your experience in the industry, what’s next for MONEY JEZU$? Any upcoming collaborations or projects we should be looking out for?
MJ: I’ve got some exciting things coming up soon. I can’t give away too much just yet, but definitely stay tuned and locked in because it’s going to be an amazing journey.
For more on MONEY JEZU$ and his work, follow him on Instagram, stream his music on Spotify, or visit his website.
