Emerging from the heart of California’s Central Valley, 19-year-old independent rapper Michael Hernandez, known as jusmike, is rapidly carving out a space in the music world. His latest release, Verbs Over Herbs, is a testament to his creativity, dedication, and desire to offer something fresh to the hip-hop scene. Inspired by jev.’s track Jays (Session ’17), jusmike’s song blends cultural authenticity with laid-back vibes, creating an anthem for those who enjoy a smoke session alone or with friends. Adding a raza-inspired intro, he proudly represents his Mexican heritage, embedding the essence of his culture into the track.
For jusmike, music goes beyond mere lyrics and beats. Each song he crafts is a spiritual endeavor, aimed at delivering a unique flow and rhythm that sets him apart from comparisons to mainstream artists like Future or Tyler the Creator. While he hasn’t fully immersed himself in beat production yet, his commitment to experimenting and honing his skills is evident as he continues to build his sound. “I always make sure my lyrics are in sync with the beat,” jusmike explains, emphasizing the importance of originality and personal touch in his music.
Influences that Shape His Craft
Like many in the hip-hop world, jusmike draws inspiration from some of the genre’s biggest names. Artists like Kendrick Lamar, MF DOOM, Tyler the Creator, and Ye have helped him develop his lyrical prowess, while R&B talents such as Brent Faiyaz and Daniel Caesar have influenced the emotional depth of his music. His Mexican roots also play a significant role, blending elements of his cultural identity with his musical influences to create a sound that feels both familiar and new.
He credits these influences for shaping the way he raps, yet he’s determined to carve out his own space within the industry. “It’s kinda like how Travis Scott did it,” he says, recognizing the importance of finding his unique sound while paying homage to those who paved the way before him.
Challenges and Triumphs
Despite his growing success, jusmike acknowledges that the road hasn’t always been smooth. One of his biggest challenges has been the financial burden of promoting his music. Getting songs placed on playlists or securing Instagram promos comes at a cost, and for an independent artist, these hurdles can be difficult to overcome. But his persistence and dedication have already begun to pay off.
His most memorable moment to date was the release of his first single, No Heart. The feedback from industry insiders was overwhelmingly positive, with many recognizing his potential to make it big. This validation from his peers and professionals alike solidified his commitment to his craft. “I hate wasted potential,” he reflects, drawing inspiration from Tyler the Creator’s GONE, GONE / THANK YOU. This lyric struck a chord, pushing him to continue pursuing greatness.
Breaking Stereotypes, Building Hope
As a young Mexican artist, jusmike is determined to shatter stereotypes often associated with his background. He’s motivated by a desire to show that Mexicans can excel beyond societal expectations, whether in music or any other field. “I knew I had to work hard towards my music,” he shares, underscoring his commitment to taking his family and friends along on this journey. His ultimate goal is to inspire others, especially kids, to follow their passions, take risks, and strive for success.
His upcoming work promises a blend of old-school hip-hop with the contemporary sounds of today. Fans can look forward to his next single, set to drop on the 27th, and he’s excited to see how his audience will react.
The Future of Jusmike
At just 19, jusmike’s journey is only beginning. He’s already shown that he has the talent, drive, and vision to make a significant impact on the music industry. With influences that span hip-hop and R&B, a commitment to originality, and a deep connection to his cultural roots, jusmike is poised to inspire a new generation of listeners.
Stay tuned for more from this young artist, as he continues to break barriers and redefine what it means to be a Mexican artist in today’s music landscape.
Check out Verbs Over Herbs on Spotify: Verbs Over Herbs
Follow jusmike on Instagram for updates on his latest releases: Instagram.
