Steadily rising as one of this generation’s most gifted Soul artists, BJ the Chicago Kid has come a long way since his appearance on Kendrick Lamar’s debut album, 2011’s Section.80. The singer-songwriter released In My Mind in February, following up his 2012 full-length debut Pineapple Now-Laters and with it came collaborations with Big K.R.I.T., Chance the Rapper, Lamar and others. Cheered for his falsetto, his live performances have drawn comparisons to fellow Neo-Soul crooner D’Angelo and though BJ’s career is still in its early stages, his talents both as a recording artist and live act are receiving so much acclaim, there’s no question he’s got longevity in his future.

Recently, he showcased his gifts at South by Southwest in Austin, Texas, where he performed at an event put on by Ray-Ban and Boiler Room. Along with some exceptional musicians, he brought his A game to a 30-minute set which began with Common’s “The Corner,” produced by fellow Chicagoan Kanye West. Some incredible acoustic guitar guides BJ through the set list comprised of songs that have inspired him along the way – from Usher’s “Nice and Slow” to James Brown’s “It’s a Man’s Man’s Man’s World” and some other, perhaps more surprising choices along the way.

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