RJ Reflects on Growth, "O.M.M.I.O. 4" and Loyalty on 'Effective Immediately'

When RJ, known to many as RJMrLA, pulled up to DJ Hed and Gina Views' show Effective Immediately, it wasn’t just another press stop—it was his first interview since dropping O.M.M.I.O. 4. It was a moment of reflection, pride, and candid realness. The LA native came through to talk about his latest project, O.M.M.I.O. 4, a continuation of a series deeply rooted in his journey and the city that raised him. With his signature wit and sincerity, RJ let the listeners in on what this project meant to him, the process behind it, and the growth he’s experienced both personally and professionally.

"I forgot about all the other tapes. I forgot about all the work I did and just started fresh," RJ shared when asked about the mindset he brought into O.M.M.I.O. 4. He explained that this wasn’t about recreating past energy. Instead, it was about bringing something new, something honest. A key conversation with his friend Chops helped ignite that fresh approach. "He told me, 'You got to talk that s---. You've been in the game. People know more of your story now.'"

Creating O.M.M.I.O. 4: A Fresh Approach

RJ made O.M.M.I.O. 4 in just two weeks. That quick turnaround didn’t compromise quality, though. Instead, it gave the project an electric spontaneity. "It was fun making this tape," he said. "We were locked in."

The creative energy poured into O.M.M.I.O. 4 is clear on tracks like "Interstate," a fan favorite for both Hed and Gina. "That was one of them ones," said Gina, praising the track’s infectious vibe and standout production. RJ explained how the song came together with input from multiple collaborators. "I accept a lot of teamwork," RJ emphasized. "But I know how to say no. It’s about balance."

The Power of Collaboration and Loyalty

Collaboration isn't just a studio buzzword for RJ—it's part of his foundation. On "Hotline," Lefty pulled up for a session that became much more. "We made that from scratch. He pulled up and just took over the studio," RJ said, reflecting on the chemistry that birthed the song. "He's really talented. He knows what he's doing, and if someone’s schooling him, he listens."

RJ also spoke about how Lefty's presence in the studio added layers to the creative process, noting how deeply Lefty studies music and internalizes every bar. "He's a student and a master. He'll sprinkle your verse in his freestyle, remix it, and you’ll be like, 'Damn, this s--- is talented.'"

Another standout moment from O.M.M.I.O. 4 came during the Dom Kennedy collaboration. While mixing his project at MixedByAli's studio, RJ realized Dom was down the street at Mike & Keys. He ran down, connected, and crafted a two-part track that took listeners on a sonic journey. "I knew just one beat wasn’t enough for me and Dom. I had to flip it," he said. "I had to give the people what they wanted."

Beyond the Bars: Team, Family, and Fatherhood

RJ's loyalty isn’t limited to collaborators. On the track "By Myself," he addresses the power of community and the myth of being self-made. "I ain't s--- without my team. I'm a star, but I wouldn't be that without them," he said. This wasn’t just rap talk—it was a belief he carries daily. "Every chance I get, I want my team to know I’m rooting for them too. Every point I score, it's for all of us."

He also expressed a desire to instill that sense of unity in the next generation. "You want to build that in the kids. Let them know it’s not just about you, it’s about everyone who lifts you up."

In addition to business partners and collaborators, RJ called out his core crew by name. "This is my team," he said. "Mike Wayne, Lambs, my Empire fam—Gentry, Bri, Jada. They locked in. They do hella work. They don’t play about me."

That mindset carries over into his personal life as a father. RJ got transparent about the emotional growth he’s undergone, sharing that he once lived in a mindset shaped by unhealthy messages around manhood and fame. "Growing up, the one thing that was instilled in us was 'f--- all the girls.' That was the goal. But I had to unlearn that."

Now, RJ is fully tapped into his role as a father and partner. "I'm locked in. I got my girl, and that’s who I’m showing attention to. When I got my kids, that’s where my energy goes. If I can’t be there in person, I’m making sure they feel me in other ways—FaceTime, money, whatever it takes."

He made it clear that being a father in the industry is challenging. "I wish I could be more present. I wish I could have more little moments with my kids," he said. But he also acknowledged the work he's still putting in. "I’m not done yet. I'm still building something for them to inherit."

He also talked about how being a better man in relationships ties directly to his growth as an artist. "I had to stop wilding out and start locking in. It wasn’t just about what I wanted—it was about doing right by the people who believe in me, whether that’s my girl, my kids, or my day ones."

Mastering the Craft, Honoring the Hustle

RJ isn’t just trying to make music—he’s trying to make moments. His rehearsals, breath control, and live show precision reflect that dedication. "I rehearse a lot. I work hard to make it look easy," he said. "You never know when that opportunity will come where I need to showcase my s---. I’ll be ready." He likens his process to Kobe Bryant’s mentality. "Kobe was putting up buckets when nobody was watching. I’m doing the same. When you see me, I’m locked in."

He credits his business team, including Lance, Mike Wayne, Lambs, and Empire, for helping him remain consistent and self-sufficient. "It’s been 12 years. Two of those I was signed. The rest? All independent. But my business been right the whole time."

Confidence, No Apology

Despite not having a major label machine behind him, RJ makes it clear he belongs in the conversation with the best. "Sometimes I’m humble. Other times I’m like, 'What the f--- is y'all listening to?'" he said. "Don’t rank me low just because I ain’t got a big budget."

He spoke about being overlooked in industry rankings, even though his work consistently performs. "I've been independent for 10 years. No major machine. No millions in marketing. Just me and the homies—and the people still show up."

"My name need to be in them top five convos. Or I’ll start calling names," he said with a grin. "Cuz I can rap and make songs. Most dudes only do one."

The Culture, The Impact

Reflecting on last year's Pop Out event, RJ described the experience as deeper than music. "It felt like the quad at lunchtime. Everybody was out there—no beef, no drama. Just love."

He recalled how even people who were supposed to be "opps" came through with respect. "It was one of those moments that reminded you why you do this. Everybody from the city just vibing. No tension. Just unity."

RJ also touched on the importance of visuals and presence. Whether it was his strut from the stage or his rehearsal-built performances, everything was crafted for impact. "I didn’t rehearse none of what I did on stage. But the crowd knew every word. That’s love. That’s real."

A Show, A Statement

Looking ahead to his upcoming show at The Novo, RJ is focused on making it memorable. He hinted at a few surprises but stayed locked into his principle of quality over clout. "We rehearse everything. We prepare like pros because that’s how we carry ourselves."

While fans beg for new drops, RJ is learning the value of letting a project breathe. "They say they want more music, but then they say 'let us live with this one.' So I’m giving O.M.M.I.O. 4 some room to run."

RJ’s Legacy is His Own

O.M.M.I.O. 4 is more than a project. It’s a declaration. It stands for what independent hustle, community loyalty, and personal growth can create when mixed with talent and tenacity. RJ isn’t waiting for co-signs. He’s making his own lane, and inviting the city to ride with him.

Upcoming Show: RJ will be performing at The Novo on July 26. Expect high energy, tight transitions, and a show that’s been rehearsed to perfection.