Welcome back to When Words Fail, Music Speaks – the show that fights depression, Anxiety, and every everyday hurdle with the healing power of music.
Our guest is Big John (Johnathan Harris), a Baltimore‑born hip‑hop storyteller who’s battled everything from childhood bullying and a toxic broadcast job to the heartbreaking loss of his mother and grandmother. After a six‑year stint at Sinclair TV, John finally reclaimed his first Love: music. With his 2024 debut EP “Here I Come” and the powerhouse single “Rise Again,” he’s channeling pain, faith, and relentless hustle into verses that make listeners stand up, shout, and—most importantly—keep moving forward.
In today’s conversation we’ll hear:
- How a pair of middle‑school English teachers sparked his love for hip‑hop.
- The journey from writing on napkins with borrowed beats to performing on open‑mic stages and landing podcast spots.
- The pivotal moment that pushed him back into the studio after years in broadcasting and a string of job rejections.
- The raw inspiration behind “Rise Again” – a track that’s resonating with athletes, film editors, and anyone who’s ever had to get back up after a fall.
- His superhero alter‑ego (Batman & The Punisher) and how those personas fuel his lyrical intensity.
- Hard‑won lessons about industry scams, the importance of genuine networking, and staying true to your unique voice.
- What he turns to when the clouds gather – from high‑energy beats to his own cathartic verses.
- A heartfelt, faith‑centered message for anyone stuck in a rough patch: pray, seek support, and never be ashamed to ask for help.
Whether you’re a budding artist, a fan of gritty, real‑talk rap, or simply looking for a boost of motivation, today’s episode is a masterclass in turning adversity into art. Stay tuned—Big John’s story might just be the soundtrack you need to rise again.
Website:
https://www.bigjonmusic.com
James Cox is an individual living with cerebral palsy. He has a podcast called “When Words Fail…Music Speaks” in which he discusses how Music can help with depression. James has lived with cerebral palsy all of his life, and now he wants to help people understand that living with a disability does not define who he is.
James’ dad is a retired colonel in the Air Force, so he lived in many different places such as the Philippines and bases in the southeast USA meeting many interesting people and gaining life experience. James has worked several different jobs over the years that allowed him the opportunity to meet new people and gain different outlooks on life. Places such as Central Carolina Tech College, The Sumter Library, Dave and Buster’s, and Outback Steakhouse.
James has been living on his own for five years now. Moving out of Sumter SC, he has been living up to his life long goal to live on his own and thrive despite his disability. He now lives in Columbia SC and has a part time job that he loves in addition to his podcast.
