Jay-Way is known for his powerful and personal pop-rock and hip-hop tracks.
On his latest EP, ‘No, I’m Not Ok,’ produced by Social House (“Thank U, Next” by Ariana Grande), Jay-Way tackles tough subjects like depression, identity and success.
We chatted with Jay-Way about the EP, what fans can look forward to next and more!
How did you first get interested in music?
My dad is a DJ and spoon-fed me so many different genres of music growing up. My classmate in high school introduced me to freestyle rapping, then I transitioned to writing and recording my own songs.
Who did you listen to growing up and do they have an influence on your sound today?
A lot of Michael Jackson, Pharrell Williams, and Lil Wayne. I feel like if you pay close attention, you’ll hear their influence in my music.
What was the inspiration for your single “No, I’m Not Ok”?
I wanted to showcase what it would be like if you were to have a conversation with your depression as a person. What would that conversation sound like? What would you tell depression? That was the question I asked myself and everything just flowed.
Where did the concept for the video come from?
The concept came from my initial inspiration to write the song. It was a long day. Even though we shot the whole video at one location, it felt like forever. It was fun, though. Great team, great execution. Sometimes I watch the video and just feel amazed like “we really did that”. (Laughs)
What was the process like creating your EP, ‘No, I’m Not Ok”?
It was an amazing journey! I had so much fun writing with my friends Anton Görranson and Isabella Sjöstrand.
How would you describe the overall sound of the EP?
I would put it in the alternative pop category. It’s a mixture of 2000s pop rock and modern day hip-hop. It’s kind of like Avril Lavigne’s ‘Under My Skin’ album with trap drums.
Why did you decide to release an unplugged version of the EP?
I wanted to have a stripped down version to give fans a different experience. I miss performing live, and I’m sure the fans do as well. I wanted my fans to know what the music would sound like in an intimate setting.
If you could set up fans in the perfect environment to listen to your new EP, ‘No, I’m Not Ok,” what do you imagine it looking like?
It would definitely be in a spaceship far from Earth (laughs). I would want my fans away from all the distractions for a good 20-30 minutes.
What can fans look forward to next?
I’ll be releasing more music videos off the EP. It’s been a blast creating new visual content for my audience. I have something super dope coming out in early 2021. Also, my new album is on the way.
What is one quote that you have heard or that you go by that you want to ECHO out to the world?
It’s Ok to not be Ok but there’s hope.
Check out his latest music video for his single “If It Ain’t Forever.”