Artist Detailed Info: Exxept

Biography and Early Musical Influences

Justin-Julius Schochardt (born April 16, 2004, in Leipzig, Germany), known by his stage name Exxept, is a German musician and music producer. Schochardt discovered his passion for music at a young age. During his childhood in Leipzig, his mother primarily exposed him to 1990s music, including influences like Michael Jackson and occasionally Nu-Metal bands like Linkin Park. His father introduced him to the music of Peter Fox. After moving with his family from Leipzig, Schochardt encountered rap music for the first time in 2014. In fourth grade, a classmate introduced him to Spongebozz, sparking his interest in the genre, though he did not explore it deeply at the time.

In sixth grade, through a music class presentation by a classmate, he discovered Kontra K, who became a central figure in Schochardt's youth, especially in the realm of hip-hop. Between the ages of 14 and 17, Schochardt went through an intense EDM phase, listening almost exclusively to EDM music. This period may have influenced his current affinity for genres like Hyperpop, Antipop, and Trap. Today, his musical taste is diverse, drawing inspiration from artists such as DanteYN, Beyazz, Kanye West, Juice WRLD, Kendrick Lamar, and Kid Kazama. Kendrick Lamar's influence, in particular, can be heard in many of his recent songs.

Digital Beginnings and Development as a YouTuber

Exxept’s online presence dates back to November 2017 when, at age 13, he created his first Instagram account. He launched his first YouTube channel, "Exxept," in January 2018, initially under the username "Lyze12," inspired by one of his favorite books and his lucky number. His early content consisted of videos from the mobile games "Rider" and "Clash Royale," recorded with the app "Mobizen," though these videos have since been deleted.

Later, Schochardt began uploading Minecraft videos on the same channel, initially under the name JGPGaming, which soon became JGP, and later jxstjxlius, under which he continues to stream, albeit irregularly. His focus on Minecraft content intensified, leading to a face reveal in December 2021.

Conflict with ItzSimmi and Content Evolution

In December 2021, Schochardt entered a nearly two-year conflict with "ItzSimmi," whom he exposed as a fraud. He released two exposé videos in December 2021 and January 2023, garnering over 1,000 views combined. During this period, his content diversified from Minecraft to a variety of formats, including real-life videos, stream highlights, podcasts (such as TimeOut with Danny.M), and reaction videos.

Name Change and Shift to Music

As his interest in music grew, Schochardt’s focus on YouTube waned, and he shifted his attention primarily to music, with streaming becoming a secondary activity. He changed his username from jxstjxlius to Exxept and privatized all previous videos, rebranding his channel to focus on music. His former secondary channel, previously named "jxst Games," was renamed jxstjxlius and is currently on hiatus.

Musical Support from MaxVFX and Early Steps in Music

In 2022, Schochardt’s musical journey took a decisive turn when his friend and musician MaxVFX, whom he met in vocational school, introduced him to the world of music production. Schochardt credits MaxVFX with a significant influence on his style, serving as a mentor. Although he doesn’t produce his own beats, Schochardt handles all the mixing and mastering, a process he has honed over time. His debut single, "Mental Breakdown," marked the start of his professional music career.

Before the release of his first single, Schochardt caught the attention of the collective BBDR, specifically through its member "Eaven," who mentored him alongside Slit253 and Weezylou. This mentorship lasted until the dissolution of BBDR in May 2024. Although Schochardt maintained a friendship with Weezylou, his relationship with Eaven soured after the collective's breakup, as Exxept chose to pursue his own path rather than taking sides in the fallout.

Music Releases and Style

Since June 2022, Exxept has released eleven independent singles, three EPs titled Unheard Voices, Freestyled Emotions, and The Last Nights of Summer, as well as two albums, 2Sad4Life and The Unknown Abyss Project, along with a "Sped Up" version of 2Sad4Life. His lyrics often explore dark, melancholic themes, addressing societal issues or personal experiences, though some works convey hope and positivity.

Collective SadBoys and E$TELLES

Following the breakup of BBDR (Born Broke Die Rich) in May 2024, Schochardt collaborated with Not_Yuk1’s collective "SadBoys" through his own collective, "E$TELLES."

Exxept’s Musical Style and Beat Selection

Exxept’s beat selection is distinctive, blending traditional genres like rap and trap with newer styles like jerk and regalia. He is recognized as one of the pioneers of the regalia genre in Germany.

Creative Process and Progress

Schochardt mixes and masters his music independently, focusing on creating a unique atmosphere for each track. His progress has been noted by friends and fans alike, with one remarking, “You can tell how much he’s improved since his first song.” His father once commented that Schochardt’s creativity has always been fueled by a vivid imagination, which now benefits his music.

Side Channel Radium101 and Experimental Music

Schochardt also runs a secondary channel under the name "Radium101," where he releases experimental tracks and songs that diverge from his primary style.

Creative Breaks and Focus on Album Production

Although Schochardt continues to stream under the name jxstjxlius, he periodically takes creative breaks for his music, ranging from one to four months. His most recent extended break from April to August 2024 was dedicated to completing The Unknown Abyss Project album and the subsequent The Last Nights of Summer EP, during which he recorded 30 songs, four of which remain unreleased.

Musical Development and Regular Releases

Since April 2023, Schochardt has fully devoted himself to his music career, releasing at least one song monthly. From January to July 2024, he released new songs every two weeks.

Success through Twitch Songs and Collaborations with Streamers

Schochardt gained wider recognition through his Twitch songs, especially for notable streamers like Shimtex and Omkaii. He created ten songs for these streamers, three of which were produced as part of a 24-hour challenge and completed in just seven hours.

Goals and Future Plans

Schochardt aims to release two EPs and two albums annually, with the ultimate goal of making a living from music and streaming. In 2025, he plans to debut as a solo artist, having already gained stage experience in youth choir performances.

Messages and Personal Philosophy

Schochardt often conveys social messages in his songs, such as the belief that the world is “broken” and in need of repair or that one should strive to be the best version of oneself. He also advocates for living life to the fullest, as it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Acquaintances and Growth in the Music Scene

Schochardt has met several well-known artists, including WEEZYLOU, Slit253, yokay, Frero.Castillo, El Rafo, MISKA, armando, denshi, NYAR, and ystn. These contacts have helped him refine his music and continue his growth.

Social Media and Community

Schochardt remains active on various platforms, including Spotify and YouTube for his music, as well as Twitch and YouTube for streaming highlights. He connects closely with his community via X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Discord.

Challenges and Setbacks

Throughout his career, Schochardt has faced challenges, including the dissolution of BBDR and its impact. He also dealt with a creative block that first appeared in late 2023 and resurfaced in August 2024. Furthermore, he has navigated depression and the highs and lows of two brief relationships, finding stability in his current relationship. His writing block seems to be gradually lifting.

Personal Life

Schochardt has two siblings and six half-siblings, one of whom is a German runner-up in U15 discus throwing. He began writing lyrics at age 14, with his younger sister remaining one of the first to hear his new songs and lyrics.

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