Jonah by KJ-52 (Album Review)

Guest Post

February 9, 2017

Release Date: January 20, 2017
Label: Independent
Genre: Hip-hop
Reviewer: Michael Tackett
Rating: ★★★★☆
Links: Amazon | iTunes

If you attended a youth group in the mid-2000s, chances are you know who KJ-52 is. Back when Christian music was just beginning to embrace hip-hop, KJ-52 helped kickstart the conversation. His early records were fun, honest, and often clever—his 2006 album Behind the Musik even won Rap/Hip Hop Album of the Year.

Fast forward to 2016: KJ launched a PledgeMusic campaign for Jonah, and it soared past its goal by over 150%, proving his audience was still listening.

The first half of Jonah is classic KJ—upbeat, catchy, and lyrically tight. “Hold On,” a potential radio single, delivers an encouraging anthem:

“Hold on, you got this, don’t throw it away. Learn to forgive but don’t forget…”

A standout track, “More of You Less of Me,” dives into conviction and surrender. KJ raps:

“On my knees and I’m beggin’ now for less of me.”
The semi-country chorus by Whosoever South blends surprisingly well with KJ’s verses.

The second half of the album shifts sonically, thanks to Derek Minor’s influence. Tracks like “Nah Bruh” (feat. Canon & B. Cooper) and “Know About It” (feat. Derek Minor) bring heavier beats and a modern hip-hop vibe. It’s a bold move, but it works.

Ultimately, Jonah is a personal reflection—an album that’s both nostalgic and relevant. With renewed creative freedom, KJ-52 proves he’s still got something to say.