Juice WRLD, born Jarad Anthony Higgins on December 2, 1998, in Chicago, Illinois, was a prodigious talent who left an indelible mark on the music industry during his short life. Known for his emotive lyrics, catchy hooks, and genre-blending style, Juice WRLD’s music resonated with millions of fans worldwide. His rise to fame was meteoric, but his career was tragically cut short when he passed away on December 8, 2019, just six days after his 21st birthday.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Jarad Higgins grew up in the South Suburbs of Chicago, where he was raised by a single mother. From a young age, he showed a deep interest in music. He began playing the piano at the age of four, later learning the guitar, drums, and trumpet. His early exposure to music was largely influenced by his mother’s taste, which leaned towards gospel music. However, as he grew older, Juice WRLD began exploring other genres, particularly rock and hip-hop, which would later shape his unique sound.
In high school, Higgins started experimenting with music production and recording. He began posting songs on SoundCloud under the name JuiceTheKidd, a moniker inspired by the 1992 film “Juice.” His early work was heavily influenced by artists like Chief Keef and Travis Scott, but he soon developed his style, blending elements of emo, rock, and rap into a sound that was distinctly his own.
Breakthrough and Rise to Fame
Juice WRLD’s breakthrough came in 2017 with the release of his single “Lucid Dreams” on SoundCloud. The song, which samples Sting’s “Shape of My Heart,” quickly went viral, catching the attention of major record labels. Its haunting melody and introspective lyrics about heartbreak resonated with a generation of listeners, propelling Juice WRLD into the spotlight.
In 2018, Juice WRLD signed with Interscope Records and released his debut studio album, “Goodbye & Good Riddance.” The album was a commercial success, peaking at number six on the Billboard 200 chart. It featured a number of hit singles, including “All Girls Are the Same” and “Lean Wit Me,” both of which showcased Juice WRLD’s ability to blend raw emotion with catchy melodies.
Musical Style and Influences
Juice WRLD’s music is characterized by its emotional depth and genre-blurring style. He often drew on personal experiences, particularly his struggles with mental health and substance abuse, to create lyrics that were both poignant and relatable. His music was a fusion of emo, rap, and rock, with melodic hooks and introspective verses that appealed to a wide audience.
Influenced by artists like Kanye West, Kid Cudi, and Fall Out Boy, Juice WRLD’s sound was a reflection of the diverse music he grew up listening to. He was known for his ability to freestyle, often recording entire songs off the top of his head in one take. This spontaneity and raw emotion gave his music an authenticity that resonated deeply with his fans.
Tragic Death and Legacy
On December 8, 2019, Juice WRLD suffered a seizure at Chicago’s Midway International Airport and was later pronounced dead at the hospital. The cause of death was determined to be an accidental overdose of oxycodone and codeine. His passing sent shockwaves through the music industry, with fans and fellow artists mourning the loss of a young talent who had so much more to give.
Despite his untimely death, Juice WRLD’s music continues to live on. His posthumous album, “Legends Never Die,” was released in July 2020 and debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, further solidifying his legacy as one of the most influential artists of his generation.
Most Popular Songs
Juice WRLD’s discography is filled with hits that have left a lasting impact on the music world. Here are some of his most popular songs:
Lucid Dreams: This track is undoubtedly Juice WRLD’s most famous song. Released in 2018, “Lucid Dreams” became a massive hit, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100. The song’s melancholic lyrics, combined with its dreamy production, struck a chord with listeners, making it an anthem for heartbroken youth.
All Girls Are the Same: Another hit from his debut album, “All Girls Are the Same” was one of the songs that helped Juice WRLD gain mainstream attention. The track’s raw lyrics about heartbreak and betrayal, paired with its infectious melody, made it an instant favorite among fans.
Lean Wit Me: A powerful track that addresses Juice WRLD’s struggles with substance abuse, “Lean Wit Me” was a standout on “Goodbye & Good Riddance.” The song’s dark themes are contrasted with its upbeat tempo, creating a track that is both introspective and catchy.
Robbery: Released as a single in 2019, “Robbery” is a heartbreaking ballad about love and loss. The song showcases Juice WRLD’s ability to convey deep emotion through his lyrics and delivery, making it one of his most beloved tracks.
Wishing Well: One of the standout tracks from his posthumous album “Legends Never Die,” “Wishing Well” is a haunting reflection on Juice WRLD’s struggles with addiction and mental health. The song’s poignant lyrics and haunting melody make it one of his most powerful and memorable tracks.
Bandit (feat. YoungBoy Never Broke Again): Released in 2019, “Bandit” was one of Juice WRLD’s last songs before his death. The track features a catchy hook and a bouncy beat, making it a fan favorite and a commercial success.
Righteous: Another posthumous release, “Righteous” was the first single from “Legends Never Die.” The song’s introspective lyrics and somber production make it a fitting tribute to Juice WRLD’s legacy.
Armed & Dangerous: A more upbeat track, “Armed & Dangerous” showcases Juice WRLD’s versatility as an artist. The song’s energetic beat and confident lyrics make it a standout in his discography.
Hate Me (with Ellie Goulding): A collaboration with British singer Ellie Goulding, “Hate Me” is a pop-leaning track that became a hit in 2019. The song’s catchy melody and relatable lyrics about love and betrayal made it a favorite among fans.
Lucid Dreams (Remix) [feat. Lil Uzi Vert]: The remix of Juice WRLD’s most famous song features rapper Lil Uzi Vert and adds a new dimension to the original track. The collaboration between the two artists was highly anticipated and received positive reviews from fans and critics alike.
Juice WRLD’s impact on the music industry is undeniable. Despite his short career, he managed to create a body of work that continues to resonate with fans around the world. His ability to blend genres, his raw and honest lyrics, and his melodic hooks made him a unique and influential artist. Though his life was tragically cut short, Juice WRLD’s music and legacy live on, continuing to inspire and connect with new generations of listeners.
How to Make Natural Fruit Juice at Home
Making natural fruit juice at home is a rewarding and healthy way to enjoy fresh, nutritious beverages. Unlike store-bought juices, homemade juices contain no added sugars, preservatives, or artificial flavors. The process is simple, and you can customize your juice to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. In this guide, we’ll explore the steps to make natural fruit juice at home, including selecting fruits, preparing them, and blending or juicing techniques.
1. Choosing the Right Fruits
The first step in making natural fruit juice is selecting the right fruits. Fresh, ripe, and organic fruits are ideal, as they will yield the best flavor and nutritional content. Here are some popular fruits and their juice characteristics:
- Citrus Fruits (Oranges, Lemons, Limes, Grapefruits):These fruits are high in vitamin C and produce refreshing, tangy juices.
- Berries (Strawberries, Blueberries, Raspberries):Rich in antioxidants, berries add a burst of color and sweetness to your juice.
- Apples and Pears: These fruits have a mild sweetness and are great for balancing more acidic flavors.
- Tropical Fruits (Pineapple, Mango, Papaya):These add a rich, exotic flavor and are often used in combination with other fruits.
- Watermelon and Cantaloupe: High in water content, these fruits create hydrating and refreshing juices.
When selecting fruits, consider the seasonality and availability. Local and in-season fruits are often fresher and more flavorful.
2. Preparing the Fruits
Proper preparation of the fruits is essential for making the best juice. Here’s how to get started:
- Wash Thoroughly: Rinse the fruits under cold water to remove any dirt, pesticides, or bacteria. If you’re using non-organic fruits, consider using a vegetable brush to scrub the skin.
- Peel and Core: Some fruits, like apples and pears, need to be cored, while others like oranges and pineapples require peeling. For berries and grapes, simply remove any stems.
- Cut into Smaller Pieces: Chop the fruits into smaller pieces that will fit easily into your juicer or blender. This also helps in extracting more juice.
- Remove Seeds and Pits: Ensure that all seeds and pits are removed, especially in fruits like peaches, cherries, and mangoes.
3. Juicing Techniques
There are various methods to extract juice from fruits, depending on the equipment you have at home. The most common methods include:
a. Using a Juicer
A juicer is designed specifically to extract juice from fruits and vegetables. There are two main types:
- Centrifugal Juicers: These juicers use a fast-spinning blade to separate the juice from the pulp. They are quick and efficient but may produce slightly less juice than other methods.
- Masticating Juicers: Also known as cold press juicers, these work by crushing the fruits to extract juice. They operate at a slower speed, preserving more nutrients and yielding a higher juice quantity.
Steps to Juice with a Juicer:
- Assemble the juicer according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Feed the prepared fruit pieces into the juicer chute.
- Turn on the juicer and let it extract the juice.
- Collect the juice in a glass or jug and stir to mix the flavors evenly.
- If desired, strain the juice to remove any remaining pulp.
b. Using a Blender
If you don’t have a juicer, a blender can also be used to make natural fruit juice. Though it involves an extra step of straining, the results are equally satisfying.
Steps to Juice with a Blender:
- Place the fruit pieces into the blender, adding a small amount of water or other liquid to aid blending.
- Blend until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Pour the blended mixture into a fine-mesh strainer, cheesecloth, or nut milk bag placed over a bowl.
- Press or squeeze the mixture to extract the juice, leaving the pulp behind.
- Transfer the juice to a glass or jug and stir.
c. Manual Juicing
For those who prefer a more hands-on approach, manual juicing tools like citrus reamers or hand presses can be used. This method is perfect for citrus fruits.
Steps to Manual Juicing:
- Cut the fruit in half and press it against the reamer or hand press.
- Twist or squeeze to extract the juice, collecting it in a bowl or glass.
- If desired, strain the juice to remove seeds or pulp.
4. Enhancing Your Juice
Once you have your base juice, you can enhance it with various add-ins for additional flavor, nutrition, or presentation.
- Sweeteners: If your juice is too tart, consider adding a natural sweetener like honey, agave syrup, or a few drops of stevia.
- Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs like mint, basil, or cilantro, as well as spices like ginger or cinnamon, can add a unique twist to your juice.
- Ice and Water: For a lighter, more refreshing drink, you can dilute the juice with ice cubes or water.
- Vegetable Additions: Adding vegetables like spinach, kale, or carrots can boost the nutritional content of your juice without overpowering the fruit flavors.
5. Storing Your Juice
Freshly made juice is best consumed immediately to enjoy the maximum flavor and nutrient content. However, if you need to store it:
- Refrigerate: Store the juice in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 24-48 hours. Mason jars or glass bottles work well for this purpose.
- Freeze: For longer storage, consider freezing the juice in ice cube trays or freezer-safe containers. Thaw and enjoy within a few weeks.
6. Health Benefits of Natural Fruit Juice
Drinking natural fruit juice provides a wide array of health benefits, including:
- Hydration: High water content in fruits helps keep you hydrated.
- Nutrient Intake: Fresh fruit juices are rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Digestion: Some juices, like those made from citrus fruits, can aid digestion and detoxification.
- Immune Support: Vitamin C-rich juices can strengthen your immune system, helping to ward off colds and infections.
7. Popular Fruit Juice Combinations
Experimenting with different fruit combinations can lead to delightful discoveries. Here are some popular juice blends:
- Orange-Carrot-Ginger: A zesty and nutritious combination, perfect for boosting energy.
- Apple-Pineapple-Mint: A refreshing and sweet blend, great for summer days.
- Berry Medley (Strawberry-Blueberry-Raspberry): A rich, antioxidant-packed juice.
- Watermelon-Lime: A hydrating and tangy option for a hot day.
- Mango-Papaya-Banana: A tropical delight that’s creamy and rich.
Conclusion
Making natural fruit juice at home is a simple and enjoyable process that allows you to enjoy fresh, nutrient-rich beverages without any unwanted additives. With the right fruits, proper preparation, and the juicing method that suits your needs, you can create a variety of delicious juices that cater to your taste and health goals. Whether you’re looking to hydrate, boost your nutrient intake, or simply enjoy a refreshing drink, homemade fruit juice is a perfect choice.