Hear Kyle Long’s conversation with Bloomington-based musician Jermaine Butler— also known as Jermaine from the South — an artist who defies easy categorization.
Born in Lake Charles, Louisiana, raised in Baton Rouge, Butler arrived in Bloomington in 2015 to study music and language at Indiana University. His work in music spans genres, instruments, and continents. He's held down the drum kit for psychedelic rock band Moon Honey, played oud with the Bloomington Silk Road Ensemble, and toured internationally as a bassist for British rock artist Barns Courtney. His debut album, The South, adds yet another dimension — a collection of soulful hip-hop beats that reflect the depth and range of his musical voice.
The wider world is starting to take notice. Butler's submission to NPR's Tiny Desk Contest, titled "Dan Vi-Çila”, earned a coveted Top Shelf selection, drawing praise from Tiny Desk producer Bobby Carter and guest judge Tierra Whack.
And he's not slowing down. Butler is set to unveil a new project rooted in the culture of his home state — rapping in Louisiana Creole.
