Repping Central Mass with Authenticity
If you’re tapped into the underground scene out in Central Mass, then you already know Jerard Rice is someone you need on your radar. Repping Webster, MA, Jerard is bringing a fresh, introspective voice to Hip Hop — the kind that’s rooted in real-life challenges, spiritual reflection, and the kind of self-discovery you can feel with every bar.
“There’s a lot of talent out here,” Jerard says about his hometown, and it’s clear he’s not just talking — he’s contributing to that wave with intention and authenticity. His music isn’t about gimmicks or trends. It’s about healing. “Writing was therapeutic,” he explains. “Being able to create music which is 100% authentic to my personal experience yet relatable… I want my music to be catchy yet inspiring while addressing real life challenges.”
New Single “Starz” Is Already Making Major Moves
That balance between vibe and vulnerability is what sets Jerard apart, especially on his latest release, “Starz”. The track is a standout from his upcoming project Love Shouldn’t Cost A Thing, dropping June 2025 — and it’s already making major moves.
“Starz” has been chosen by award-winning producer and global music powerhouse Oliver Sean and his WOA team as the lead single for Jerard’s rollout, and the track has earned placement on multiple international projects. From The WorldBeat Project (which hit the UK Official Album Charts in April 2023) to the Independent Blues Project (climbing to #10 on the Billboard Blues Album Chart in November 2024), “Starz” is taking Jerard’s sound far beyond Massachusetts.
A Personal Journey Through the Dark to the Light
But behind all the accolades is a story — a moment in Jerard’s life when he was seeking something outside of himself.
“Starz was written during a dark time in my life when I was looking for love and acceptance outside of myself,” he shares. “Recognizing my own value and worth does change your perspective about yourself… There is a star in all of us.”
With engineering from Josh and Kyle at Cold Spring Motel, and production by The Wave Dweller, “Starz” blends soulful tones, world elements, and bluesy textures, layered with Jerard’s emotionally-charged delivery. He breaks down the deeper meaning behind the track:
“Starz focuses on how we idolize people whom really aren’t that close to us. We admire them because of our perception of how extraordinary and breathtaking they appear… It’s your admiration that makes them appear to shine so bright. Without your admiration that said star can never shine bright.”
From the Stage to the Global Charts
It’s a message that’s hit home at live shows too — Jerard has performed Starz at events like the Stars on the Spectrum Festival and during the WOA UK Summer Tour 2024, which capped off with major success across international stages.
Despite the rising attention, Jerard stays grounded in what matters most. “God, friends, lessons I’ve learned from people who are no longer with us” are his main sources of inspiration. And while he thrives on stage, don’t expect him to be out all night. “I’m an introvert, so I love performing — however, I probably need a week or more to recover from the experience,” he admits. Between gigs, you’ll find him chilling with his circle, playing pool, fishing, gaming — just staying true to himself.
Final Word: Water Your Own Garden
And that’s the heart of Jerard Rice’s artistry — a reminder to water your own garden first.
“Recognize the star or shine in all of us in whatever and whenever we choose to shine.”
If you haven’t tapped in yet, hit play on “Starz” — it’s more than a song, it’s a mirror.
🎧 Listen to “Starz” here:
📲 Follow Jerard Rice on IG:
Performance Clip
Behind the Scenes
Written By: Dopetrackz Shakur
