Next Wave: Jean-Luc
Photo Credit: Caroline Safaran (Jl-Kiss)
Written By: Chelsea Samuel | @opn.5ea
Jean-Luc is more than just an artist, DJ, or actor—he’s the blueprint for what it means to build a career on your own terms in New York City. Known for his unique, genre-blending sound and his hilarious “clout guy” persona online, Jean-Luc is creating a community where style, music, and creativity converge. Read more about his inspirations, building a name for himself and unifying as a multi-hyphenate creator.
“It’s music to get you moving,” Jean-Luc says about his sound as a fusion of influences from the ‘90s dance music and mid-2010s SoundCloud rap era.
The NYC based artist nods to icons like Daft Punk, The Outhere Brothers, and Playboi Carti. We were first introduced to this pop star nearly a decade ago. His full-length 2019 project American Fantasy was in constant rotation with stand-out tracks like, “What I Want” and “On Time” featuring Rob Olu and Lil Evo.
Lately, he’s been releasing stand-alone singles like “Designer Coat,” “New Baby,” and “Kiss.” We are impressed by how Jean-Luc continues to expand his pop sound and embrace the wonderful evolution of music.
Raised on the internet, Jean-Luc used trial and error to build his brand, a journey that’s come with its share of experimentation.
“I think for a while I was trying to be ‘cool’ on the internet,” Jean-Luc tells us. “It was when I started having fun with it that I saw people really enjoy what I was doing.”
That approach has surely paid off as Jean-Luc’s online presence combines humor, music, and style, bridging a connection with fans across the globe and securing collaborations with brands like Converse and Urban Outfitters.
“My favorite so far was probably the one I did for Urban Outfitters,” Jean-Luc shared of building organic brand partnerships. “I found them in middle school and was like an unpaid ambassador putting everyone on. Very full circle moment.”
Jean-Luc’s world isn’t just digital. He’s also embedded in NYC’s vibrant downtown scene, where his love for nightlife, street style, and performance merges. His aesthetic is rooted in ‘90s and 2000s fashion and inspired by icons like Tom Ford’s Gucci era and the “sexy” visuals of Calvin Klein and Dolce & Gabbana.
“I think I’m just focused on creating the things I’ve always wanted,” he says, adding that connecting online and offline with like-minded creatives is central to his ethos. “Creating can be isolating, so it’s crucial to be around people that get your hustle.”
Jean-Luc talks about how music has always been his “first love” but acting is another passion for him. He credits how going to acting school nurtured that desire and eventually led him to building this “clout guy” persona online.
“I went to acting school for a couple years and had an idea for a show and character that I started to tease online,” he adds. “It’s snow balled and luckily brought me this platform that allows me to create for a living which is fun.”
He hopes to expand even more next year so that his focus is 60 percent music and 40 percent skits.
Photo Credit: Caroline Safaran (Jl-Kiss)
This month’s Next Wave theme is “unity,” which means to come together for a common purpose or action. Jean-Luc shared how significant it’s been to build community as an artist, and how he utilizes his worlds online and in real life.
“The internet has been an amazing place to meet people,” Jean-Luc shared. “I also go out a lot and love seeing the same people IRL [in real life]. The downtown scene feels a bit high school which makes things fun.”
Looking ahead, Jean-Luc is ready to launch his new EP, drawing fans into his evolving sound with dance beats and a blend of hip-hop nostalgia.
“I’m very excited for this new music and to get everyone dancing to it,” Jean-Luc shared his anticipation. “Taking the time to be inspired visually and figure out the story I want to tell but it’s going to be a moment. God willing.”
For fans of Jean-Luc, now is the time to dive in and support this NYC creative’s expanding journey. As he says, “It’s always better to be here early.”
Follow Jean-Luc on social media here.