Justin Love’s recent single, ‘No Friends‘ takes a good hard look at what happens when you hit the big time, and you find out who your real friends are, and who are just there for the ride. It’s a serious song that hits deep, and so we decided to ask the man himself a few questions about the track, and to give us the inside edge on what it’s like in the music business today.
Hi Justin, thanks for speaking to us today! We’ve just listened to your new single, ‘No Friends’ and were really moved by the sadness of the song. Is the song based on real life events?
This song is most definitely based on real life events. I’m a natural-born giver & I don’t mind holding my loved ones down. I think it’s important to be there for someone when they need it, but some people are natural born takers. In the song you’ll hear that these people only came out for celebrations, but never present during the struggle. That’s what drove the intent of this song.
Do you think “fair weather friends” are a guarantee when you’ve got money? Or do think it’s possible to have a loyal crew who knew you from before you hit the big time?
I think both are possible. I’ve at least been through both scenarios. I left my loyal crew to chase my dreams & in the process became blinded by the chase & attracted the fair weathers. It was part of my growing process, hence why I moved back home/back to Jersey from Los Angeles & Miami to regroup & feel the real love again.
To what do you attribute the secret to your success, and what’s going to keep you getting to the top of your game? Similarly, what could prevent you from reaching for the stars?
Only I can be my worst enemy. My secret to my success as of lately has just been leaning into God. It’s not my plan, it’s his. All my capabilities are gifts from the man above & as I’ve matured I’ve been realizing his attention & his eyes are the only eyes that matter. I used to want to be recognized by people, celebrities & even particular friend groups & I’ve come to the realization that you can’t force anything in life. Only I can prevent myself from reaching for the stars. God gave me the tools. It’s my responsibility to execute.
Who’s your inspiration, both musically and personally?
Musically: John Legend, Alicia Keys, Boys II Men, Kci & JoJo
Personally: Not wanting to see my family struggle anymore.
If suddenly there was no music left in the world, what would you do instead?
I would be designing clothes, tattooing, & painting.
What’s the top three songs on your “go to” playlist, and why?
Honestly, I’ve been listening to a lot of Brazilian Funk playlists & Afro beat playlist. No three songs in particular. Other than that, it’s usually the last three songs I’ve recorded because I’m not really a fan of where music is at currently.
Finally, what question do you wish someone would ask you in an interview, and what’s the answer to that question?
What does music do for you?
My answer to that question is:
More than a hobby, music is my therapy. It’s my way of venting & healing myself. Though some songs are sad, I feel like I can let it all out & the feeling of people relating to my story is immeasurable.
Watch the music video for ‘No Friends’ below and find out more about Justin Love and his music online on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.
