“We have this kingdom right here in North Carolina,” Rowsey said. “A lot of people want to go to a New York, Atlanta or Los Angeles, but what I think people are missing is the gold mine that is right here in our own backyard.”
Known onstage as (J) Rowdy, Rowsey said that a sense of community and loyalty was important to his new album, “Return to Black Wall Street.” The album’s name is a reference to Durham’s Parrish Street, which was a hub of black entrepreneurship.
“People are beginning to make their own way, shape their own vision and dreams, work independently and start their own businesses,” Rowsey said. “Things are beginning to pop up. If you have some sort of vision within Durham, you’re able to build and make it your career and your lifestyle.”
Rowsey produced his entire album in two days with the help of friend Tracy Lamont.
“For him, he said it was a testament to getting things done and letting go of any stagnant energy,” Lamont said.
Rowsey said producing the album was an intense, spiritually growing process.
“It was scary because everything had to be right,” Rowsey said. “It shows the power of manifestation (of the idea) of ‘do music and focus what is possible.’”
Brandon Long, the general manager of Linda’s Bar and Grill where Josh usually performs as (J) Rowdy, said audiences enjoy when sample songs of the album are performed at the restaurant.
