Multi-talented artist, producer, and engineer July 7 talks taking control of his music, being self-efficient and his new project, the Just Imagine EP.

When it comes to self-made artists who blur the lines between producing, engineering, and performing, few names resonate quite like July 7. Fresh off the release of his brand new Just Imagine EP via Ditto Music, the multi-talented Manchester native is switching up his sound with a slick fusion of bouncy beats, smooth RnB hooks, and irresistible vocals. The four-track project, already turning heads with singles ‘What Happened’ and the title track ‘Just Imagine’, is a masterclass in July’s genre-fluid creativity, receiving strong nods from radio heavyweights and DSPs alike.

 

July 7’s rise isn’t just limited to his solo ventures. His production credits include collabs with US rap icons like Young Thug, Travis Scott, and Soulja Boy, proving that his talent stretches far beyond the UK scene. His involvement in Travis Scott’s Days Before Rodeo mixtape, specifically on the track ‘Quintana Pt 2’, has only amplified the buzz around his name, with the mixtape skyrocketing to #2 on the Billboard Album Chart.

 

But the Just Imagine EP signals a new chapter for July 7 — one that positions him as a defining voice in the UK’s modern RnB landscape. Expect smooth vibes, infectious beats, and that undeniable Manchester flair as he takes his solo career to the next level. Here, he speaks taking control of his music, being self-efficient and his new project, the Just Imagine EP.

Do you remember the moment you fell in love with music?

I remember going to carnival as a kid and feeling the bass from the sound system rattling my chest. I couldn’t get over that feeling and I couldn’t even explain it. I think some part of me is still chasing that bass today. I wanted to make music that hit just like that.

You’ve just released your Just Imagine EP. What was the inspiration behind this project, and how does it differ from your previous work?

This is probably my most intentional project yet. I set out to make a project that showcased a more vulnerable side of July. Deep sultry textures, unusual pockets but strictly R&B and forward thinking. I usually like to showcase how diverse I can be, with this one I just wanted to bring you closer to my world.

You have an impressive background producing for artists like Young Thug, Travis Scott, and Soulja Boy. How has your experience in production influenced your solo work?

It’s influenced everything, literally. Being able to hear a record from multiple perspectives gives me a huge advantage because I get to wear all the hats. I’m choosing all the colours, all the textures. I can truly go in whatever direction I feel. I was only able to do half the job as just the producer.

What was the defining moment or experience that pushed you to fully embrace your solo career and move beyond your role as a producer for others?

I actually had worked on a whole collab project with Young Thug and T.I. as a producer. We had a lot of tracks in the vault that never saw the light of day. I got tired of waiting on a next man in order to make shit happen. I wanted something that I could control and be proud of, something curated for me that others can also enjoy.

Manchester has a rich musical heritage. How has your hometown influenced your music and career?

It’s such a diverse city with so many cultures. It’s given me perspectives that I’ve been able to fuse into the music and show my appreciation for. We’re very open-minded here. I’m very proud of my Jamaican/Nigerian heritage and aim to always keep that alive in the music.

Are there any artists, producers, or bands you’re currently inspired by or looking to collaborate with in the future?

I’m a fan of the band Cruza. Planet Giza are very fire too. Doechii, Ambré and Alex Isley are a few female artists who have inspired me for a while now. Shout out to Alex Isley showing love to my last EP too! I’m very inspired by house music too so you might hear some of that soon if you’re lucky.

What has been the biggest learning curve in your career so far?

For one, I would say navigating relationships. Business and friendships can be a tricky one to mix.

You handle all aspects of your music production, engineering, and recording yourself. What are the challenges and benefits of being a multi-talented artist in this way?

It definitely has its pros and cons. Being self-efficient is a blessing, I’m literally a one-man band and that’s a privilege not many people have. You can send yourself crazy with all the small details you have to be across and I’ve definitely spent hours upon hours tweaking things that the average listener won’t even notice, but it’s all worth it. Being able to outdo yourself every time and create above your own expectations is the payoff.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to your younger self just starting out in music?

Follow your curiosity, don’t listen to anybody but yourself. Lock in on what you like. Don’t allow anyone or anything to knock your focus. Just keep doing you and be unapologetic about it.

What’s next for you?

You’re going to see a lot more global collaborations from me, in different corners of the globe and with different genres. A lot more writing and production for other artists I respect. More shows, more visuals. We’re upping the levels every time.

Listen to Just Imagine EP now: