Written By: Sammy Approved | @opn.5ea

Black Sound Wave’s Next Wave artist Dri Jack takes us from College Park to the world with a soulful R&B sound the music industry deserves. The stage has been her playground since she was a tot, surrounded by talented musicians all her life. Read more about how Dri’s owning her dreams and creating a wave all her own.

Meet Dri Jack, an R&B/soul artist, producer, and entrepreneur who’s not just making music but crafting an entire experience. Hailing from College Park, GA, Dri’s journey has been one of passion, perseverance, and an unyielding drive to create. She’s a performer, a curator, and now, proudly, a mother. But Jack’s story is about more than just titles—it’s about building a community of dreamers who embrace life’s highs and lows, all through the power of music.

For those new to the world of Dri Jack, her music is a pathway to both joy and introspection.

“I would describe the community of DRImers that I am building, and welcoming in, as people who love to enjoy life and are big dreamers,” she explains.

But it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. Dri’s music also touches on those real emotions that can sometimes weigh you down, offering listeners a way to navigate through life’s challenges.

Growing up as a preacher’s kid, Dri’s earliest musical influences were gospel greats like Yolanda Adams, CeCe Winans, and Mary Mary. Today, her inspirations have expanded to include legends like Aretha Franklin and contemporary artists like Kehlani and Jhene Aiko. What ties all these influences together? Their authenticity.

“These artists are also not only incredibly talented but they have built and sustained their brands as well,” Dri notes, highlighting the importance of staying true to oneself in both music and life.

In a city as competitive as Atlanta, making a name for yourself is no easy task, but Dri has done just that through sheer hard work.

“As an independent artist, I have had to vouch for myself, pitch myself, pay to perform, pay to produce my music and my own shows,” she reveals of her music journey.

That hustle seems to have paid off, earning her opportunities to sing background for big names like Teyana Taylor, Tiny from Xscape, and EarthGang. But for Dri, it’s not just about the gigs—it’s about the journey.

“My passion for music and the business of music has brought me this far and I’m excited to see where it takes me next.”

Jack’s journey from musical theater to becoming a recording artist has been one of constant evolution. Armed with a Bachelor’s degree in music management, she’s not just an artist. Dri has evolved into a savvy businesswoman, who knows what she wants and goes after it.

“The journey from then until now has made me more resilient and stern about the standards of who I am as a brand, not just Dri,” she reflects.

As a new mom, Dri Jack’s superpower is “super balanced.” Juggling a recording career while being the best mom she can be is not easy, but Dri handles it with grace.

“There are some days where I feel that life is rocking me, but other days I feel that I’m doing my best,” she says.

In a music industry flooded with new releases, Dri Jack stands out by staying true to herself.

“As an artist, you have to have your own methods of creation,” she advises.

Whether you release music every few years or drop singles monthly, Dri believes the only way to do it is wholeheartedly and by staying the course.

This month’s theme is about taking action. Dri notes that for her that means wearing many different hats. Early on, she has had to take action by being her own manager, booking agent, producer, and more. Now, with a team by her side, she’s able to dream bigger and execute those dreams more effectively.

“Being able to bounce ideas off of people that I can trust and that believe in my career has been a saving grace for me,” she admits.

This support system has allowed her to continue building her community and making moves in the music industry.

Dri Jack’s journey began at Clark Atlanta University, where she spent her days promoting her music on the promenade and her nights in the studio. Since then, she’s independently released an EP, numerous singles, and music videos. Collaborating with companies like RAEDIO and Google to produce her EP The Other Side has been a significant milestone, showing just how far she’s come.

One of the most impactful moments in Dri’s career was being awarded the “Underground Artist” award from the Atlanta Chapter of Women in Music. The recognition came at a time when she was eight months pregnant and feeling uncertain about her career’s direction. “But my work had preceded me,” she recalls.

This moment reminded her that sometimes, “God puts detours in our lives to show us how good it can get if we let go of our expectations and trust the journey.”

As Dri continues to rise in the music industry, she’s focused on manifesting a future where her creativity flows effortlessly and her art sustains her financially.

“Getting paid to share your God-given gifts is a different type of flex!” she laughs. But beyond the financial rewards, Dri is grateful to still be inspired to create and perform, even after life’s ups and downs.

Dri discovered the only way to carve a lane out for herself in this industry is to be open and relatable. She wants her fans to know that they can approach her, whether in Atlanta or anywhere else.

“I want to leave room for human interaction,” she says, emphasizing the importance of staying grounded and connected to her community.

To those just starting their journey in the music industry, Dri offers simple but powerful advice: “Lean into the unknown, be aware of who you surround yourself with, and always trust your first mind.”

It’s advice that has guided her through her career and will no doubt continue to guide her as she becomes an even bigger force in music and beyond.

Dri Jack is a testament to the power of authenticity, hard work, and unwavering faith. As she continues to grow, both as an artist and a person, one thing is clear—she’s just getting started.

Be sure to follow Dri Jack’s journey and support her music here.

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