It starts with a sincere smile and slight smirk then it happens – Jacob Latimore avails himself to me as a conduit to his fans. The world has witnessed the entertainment prodigy mature from local FM radio stations in Milwaukee to the silver screens across the country and they should brace themselves for what is happening next. Always humble and open to speak about his journey, the bass in his voice indicates he is a boy no more, rather a maturing young man.
Presented with the immediate task of describing his relationship with music, Jacob professes it is what he was born to do and he loves to do it. Arguably predestined in the womb since his father and uncle contributed to the music universe, this moment was defined when he recounts squatting in his father’s rehearsals and commanding the imaginary audience in the studio. “I’ve been around music my entire life, but I was 9 years old when I was formally introduced into the industry. I have grown up and my music has changed too. I focus on things that are mature and relatable to me now - relationships and heartbreak.”
The multi-talented sensation has been noticeably successful in the past year, sharing scenes with creative legends Forest Whitaker, Angela Bassett, and Jennifer Hudson. Our digital age has allowed us to re-live moments time and time again but nothing comes close to the nostalgia of the first time. “I am always humbled by the people who know me before I can even introduce myself. When I first met Usher and Chris Brown, those experiences were mind blowing. They knew me, they knew Jacob Latimore.” One could only believe opportunities like that require a heart of humility and mind of understanding, both of which Jacob possesses. “I study Michael Jackson, not just his performances but interviews too. His talent inspires me. That generation had a different standard of music and performance, unlike artists now. They put in the time and work for perfection. I want to return to that, hard work and practice for perfection.”
It is easy to assume that Jacob has reached a level of success, but his aspirations far exceed any of those assumptions. When asked what success means to him, in an authentic tone Jacob replies, “When I have impacted the world. A big single is a good start, but when your fans are inspired beyond your music and encouraged to live better, that’s when you have reached success.” During this close encounter with this gifted talent, I am awe inspired by his maturity and passion for performing. I conclude by asking how he wants the world to view him, he replies, “Jacob Latimore is a complete artist. I am a true talent. I have a God given gift to entertain and that is what I am going to do.”
Needless to say, I am a believer and wait his moment of greatness. Catch Jacob Latimore starring in The Maze Runner in theaters September 19th.