Born: February 21, 2000
Origin: Gainesville, Florida, USA
Genres: Hip hop, Rap
Occupation: Rapper, Songwriter
Years Active: 2020–
Label: Brick Road Records
Bronson Jones (Born February 21, 2000), known professionally as Israel Jones, is an American rapper, songwriter, and record producer based in Gainesville, Florida. His Southern upbringing profoundly influences his music, imbuing his lyrics with themes of resilience, authenticity, and the struggles of his community. His 2022 album Blacc Boys Don’t Cry and the 2023 release The Sun Shines On Us All received widespread acclaim, showcasing introspective lyrics and vibrant production. Jones gained recognition with these albums, which opened doors for him to perform alongside prominent artists and garner media attention from various outlets. In late 2022, he departed from an independent label based in Gainesville, Florida, to pursue a vision more aligned with his artistic goals, leading to the formation of Brick Road Records, a collective he co-created that emphasizes brotherhood and a commitment to uplifting their communities through music.
Early Life and Introduction to Rapping (2012-2018)
Growing up in Gainesville, Florida, Bronson Jones was heavily influenced by the music his father played in the car, featuring legendary artists like Prince, Kanye West, and Mobb Deep. This exposure ignited his passion for music at a young age. He also played football throughout his life, which instilled a strong sense of discipline and teamwork. However, upon entering college, he made the pivotal decision to focus more intently on his music career, stepping away from athletics to pursue his artistic passion.
By the time he reached middle school, Jones had begun to develop his own unique style. He drew inspiration from a diverse array of artists such as Kendrick Lamar, Freddie Gibbs, Solange, Erykah Badu, Isaiah Rashad, OutKast, and Lil Wayne. At the age of 12, he started writing raps and quickly began performing them. During his teenage years, he released three mixtapes that motivated him to continue creating music. While in middle and high school, he gained a reputation for his impressive freestyle abilities, often showcasing his talent in various local venues and even getting featured on WorldStar Hip Hop, where his skills garnered attention from a broader audience.
Musical Career
2018-2019: God's Pen and God's People
In 2018, Jones began attending Florida A&M University (FAMU), where he joined the Voices Poetry Organization. This organization connected him with other creatives who shared his passion for art and expression, providing a supportive environment that fueled his growth as an artist. While in a friend’s dorm room, he completed his mixtape God's Pen, which became a significant milestone in his career. He used the momentum from this project to share his work throughout the campus, engaging with fellow students and performing at various events, which helped him build a local following.
Freestyling around the school allowed him to gain recognition, enabling him to make a name for himself in local hip-hop circles. His presence in studio sessions with other local acts further solidified his reputation as a talented emerging artist. Building on this success, he worked diligently on his next project, God's People, which was released on his mother's birthday in 2019. This mixtape, featuring introspective themes and personal narratives, was the last of his official mixtape releases, marking a transition to more polished album projects that would follow.
2020-2022: Bron, Knee Deep, and Blacc Boys Don’t Cry
In 2020, Jones released his debut album, Bron, which marked a significant transition from his previous mixtapes. The album showcased his evolution as a songwriter and artist, reflecting a more polished and cohesive sound. Prior to the album's release, he dropped two singles titled “Soldier” and “Fasho,” which generated buzz and anticipation among fans. Tracks like “Bad Liquor” received extremely positive feedback, resonating with audiences for their relatable themes and compelling production, helping to establish him in the music scene.
Following the success of Bron, Jones began working on his second album, Knee Deep, during the tail end of the first project’s promotional cycle. This album delved into themes of Blackness, social injustice, and personal identity, reflecting his experiences and observations within a society grappling with these critical issues. The creative process was both rewarding and strenuous, pushing him to confront difficult topics and articulate them through his music.
Knee Deep featured collaborations with artists such as Jenesis, Kyriq, With Love, Child, and St. Mrz, enriching the project with diverse perspectives. He released two singles, “Backwood Meditation” and “Yesterday,” which were instrumental in building anticipation for the album’s release. The project not only solidified his artistic identity but also received acclaim for its lyrical depth and musicality, further establishing him as a voice to be reckoned with in contemporary hip-hop. After the release of Knee Deep, Jones signed a deal with an independent label named Dion Dia in 2021, which provided him with expanded opportunities in the industry.
At the start of 2022, Jones began working on Blacc Boys Don’t Cry, collaborating with a talented group of producers including Saidon, Andres Ian, and Eagle Syndrome. However, he worked closely with his friend and fellow label mate WhoDidIt, whose contributions were instrumental in shaping the album's sound. This project explored significant themes of grief, growth, and acceptance, allowing Jones to express his personal journey and the struggles he faced. The album featured vocal contributions from Nani Latrice, whose harmonies added emotional depth to the tracks. The lead single “Bulletproof” showcased Jones’s lyrical prowess and resonated deeply with fans. The album was well-received by both fans and critics alike, praised for its introspective lyrics and vibrant production. Following the success of Blacc Boys Don’t Cry, Israel decided to leave Dion Dia to pursue other creative visions, ultimately leading him back to a more independent approach.
2023-Present: Bigga Purpose, The Sun Shines On Us All, and the Formation of Brick Road Records
After leaving Dion Dia, Jones began working on Bigga Purpose, which introduced new sounds and styles into his repertoire. He explored a balance between abstract raps and plug-n-b influences, much to the delight of his fans. During the creative process, he grew close with Giahni Bosquet; what initially started as a plan to create an EP eventually evolved into a full album, The Sun Shines On Us All. Along the way, they met Derrick Taylor and BOMA, who also contributed to the project. Before the album's release, they dropped three singles: “Free Game,” “Love Like This,” and “Sorry!” Each track showcased the new sounds Jones was experimenting with, marking a significant departure from his earlier work. Upon its release, The Sun Shines On Us All was met with overwhelming praise, becoming the best-received project in his discography at that time. Following this success, the formation of Brick Road Records came to fruition, with Israel, Giahni, Derrick, and BOMA as co-creators. This collective aimed to foster creativity and support among artists while staying true to their Southern roots.
At the beginning of 2024, Jones released Sound + Safe in collaboration with WhoDidIt. The project was notable for its exceptional production quality and the seamless flows throughout the tracks. The standout feature from Young Pink on the song “Get Bron on the Phone” further elevated the album’s appeal. In July 2024, Brick Road Records debuted its first collective project, Feels Like Forever. The album was received positively by fans and critics alike, noted for its Southern style and abstract raps that combined to create a unique listening experience. The lead single, “Brick World,” became a defining moment for the label, showcasing the cohesive sound and vision of the artists involved.
Artistry
Israel Jones’s artistry is a multifaceted expression of his identity as a Southern hip-hop artist. His lyrical content is deeply introspective, often delving into personal experiences and broader social issues. Jones skillfully intertwines narratives of resilience and authenticity with the realities of his community, making his music both relatable and impactful. His Southern roots permeate his work, infusing it with a distinct flavor that resonates with listeners both locally and beyond. Jones draws inspiration from the rich musical heritage of the South, blending traditional elements with modern sounds, creating a sonic landscape that is as vibrant as it is meaningful. This connection to his origins not only shapes his musical style but also informs his commitment to uplifting those around him through his art. Versatility is a hallmark of Jones's artistry. He adeptly navigates various sub-genres of hip-hop, seamlessly transitioning from hard-hitting anthems to softer, reflective ballads. His willingness to experiment with abstract sounds and soulful melodies allows him to push the boundaries of traditional hip-hop, creating a unique sonic identity. This creative experimentation keeps his music fresh and engaging, appealing to a wide array of audiences. As he continues to evolve as an artist, Israel Jones remains dedicated to exploring the depths of his creativity, consistently pushing boundaries while staying true to his roots. His commitment to introspective storytelling, combined with his Southern flair, soulful influences, and versatile sound, positions him as a significant voice in contemporary hip-hop, resonating with fans and inspiring fellow artists alike.
Discography
Albums
2020 - Bron
2021 - Knee Deep
2022 - Blacc Boys Don't Cry
2023 - The Sun Shines On Us All
2024 - Feels Like Forever
2024 - Good Time!
Extended Plays
2023 - Bigga Purpose
2024 - Sound + Safe
Mixtapes
2018 - God's Pen
2019 - God's People