Conversations with KJ Weaver

Today we’d like to introduce you to KJ Weaver.

Hi KJ, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
KJ Weaver also known as Tha KeeMan began as a online persona sharing dance videos and occasional comedy skits online which then eventually led to music ventures and award nominations. I’ve always referred to myself as a Web Personality as to not be limited to any one particular discipline and now as my work has transcended beyond the internet I prefer Multi-Media Personality to allow room for the ever-evolving, ever-expanding scope of output I am involved in. Outside of Youngstown my presence can be linked to NYC, Phoenix, AZ, Indianapolis, IN, Chicago, IL and Houston, TX

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Breaking into the full-time creative industry has honestly been rugged terrain across all avenues. When you are new and unheard of on the scene (some of) the community scoffs, some already have their favorites but some are also gracious and open to discovering just what emerging talents may potentially be on the come-up.

One supporter tells a friend and these bread crumb moments build into moderate support over time..

It helps to know someone. Networking is invaluable but at the same time no one is looking give handouts there’s some degree of blockage every route.

Pertaining to my journey specifically I faced resistance from the dance community online (although I had established credibility in hometown) and it was puzzling but look how none of those people are around anymore but me and all the folks who were nice are still here thriving.

When I started sharing my voice impressions on TikTok I’d be lucky to reach 800 views. One upload sits around 600 or less. I was convinced that it just wasn’t a hit now that same content is my closer on stage and it thrills audiences all over.

I enjoy doing skits, sketch comedy is the mountain that I want to conquer. Initially I was avoiding live stand-up comedy. I didn’t think I had the skin to endure hecklers or whatever. I just wanted to film skits and get laughs that way eventually I wanted to expand my on screen portfolio so I reached out to a tenured creator from back home with interest to build the screen presence, contribute to homegrown media and maybe receive some developmental insights along the way. He left me on read and published some subliminal posts so I had to renavigate.. I wanted to film thing but I had no colleagues, where do I met colleagues? Improv or Standup.. well Improv costs money so I opted for the open mic. I thought I’d just try it until I found a crew and got the ball rolling with online sketches but as it turns out “I don’t write the script. I just take the trip”

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Music, Comedy, Miscellaneous.

In recent years I have seen some viral success via YouTube where I share my voice impressions the most popular of which come in the form of Apple Bottom Jeans mashup memes where the Flo-Rida song is rei-imagined as if performed by other artists. Being an impressionist sets me apart from most performers as well as being a disciplined dancer.

In the past I have been known for dancing as a highly active participant of the Jerkin Movement occasionally I still showcase footwork as it’ll forever be a part of my digital footprint. Present day I am pushing out sketch comedy content and writing samples utilizing my social medias as a portfolio for digital audition opportunities.

Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
On social media today everyone is super conscious of their brand and the public perception; every upload is curated and calculated. I stray from that. I want to represent myself in a way that feels true to my real self. I have a diverse range of interests. I simply wouldn’t be comfortable playing it safe. I joke that my brain operates like an episode of Adult Swim’s ‘Robot Chicken’ flickering between the most random anecdotes and references. You never know what new decision will have big rewards.

Offline in real life I do find myself in green rooms and meet & greet situations with some big names. Being personable with your heroes can be rewarding. You might be nervous but as long as you know their work and you know the importance they have on your life you’re able to be specific with your compliments. Celebrities are like star classmates that we see around campus. We share so many experiences and connections with them. Remember that and be chill.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thakeeman?stkn=MTRsaTcyMjMzeDU3Zg==
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1DqMtEj73R/