Joel Cross aka JoeLo

"Yow lets feature a few upcoming Artiste, a bredrin of mine been working on a ting, all wi haffi do is call him up" "Yes my yute, Good To Go". So I took out ma cell and called ma bredrin Joel Cross. Milo and I arranged to meet up with him that night at Aquarium to do the interview and take a few pics.

Chilling outside Aquarium Joel pulled up in his Honda Civic, sporting blue jeans and a nice Hawaiian Shirt unbuttoned, showing his white marina. Handsome, smart, focused and driven are words that tell the tale of the character and personality of Joel Cross. Known in the entertainment fraternity as JOELO this 20 year old is definitely making strides up the ladder to stardom. His name JoeLo isn't just an acronym for his biological name but it's also an abbreviation for his motto "Just One Earth Live Optimistic" and believe me he does just that.

While attending a private college in Philladelphia, JoeLo linked up with rappers Nick Rock and Freeway. He started going to the studio with them every night, writing lyrics and eventually began voicing his own tunes. Now he's back in Atlanta, signed to the Bunny Brown and the Bruce Ruffin owned Eurolanta record label and pursuing his dream of becoming another of Jamaica's greats.

Despite the lavish lifestyle and spotlight associated with the entertainment industry JoeLo doesn't "like the hype". He wants to "make some money and leave.." his mark by promoting and marketing his image and unique style of Dj-ing and rapping. He also confidently assured AtlantaReggae.com that he will be retiring before he is 30.

We asked JoeLo to give some advice to persons wanting to get started in the business:

"Going into the music business yu hav to be business minded because it's who you know that will get your foot into the door but it's what you do with the opportunity that guarantees your stay. It's nothing like yu see on tv. It's a lot of work. Don't be afraid to speak your heart or say what's on your mind cause at the end of the day you're left with your pride and dignity, so DO YOU at all times."

JoeLo will be heading to New York later this month to voice his first single "Flash up yu lighta". Then he's off to Holland this summer for a promotional tour. His plan is to "release a few tracks in Europe and then here in the states" "just to get a buzz and then really start working on the album". He also has his mind set on starting his own label later this year. "Right now I'm in focus mode, just trying to get my life in perspective and get ready for all this"

JoeLo Audio: .:listen here:.

Quick Facts
Date of Birth: June 1982
Status: Single
Favourite Color: Black
Favourite Dish: Stew Chicken and Rice and Peas

High Grade
"I don't get high I elevate my mind. It's a part of my thought process"

Motivation
"My mother needs to retire. I strive on that"

Self
"I'm a lover not a fighter and this world really needs love and peace"

Scotch Bonnett ... scotchbonnett@atlantareggae.com ...