Today, we sat down with our artist Jay-Day for an interview. Here is what he had to say:
1. How has your hometown shaped who you are as a musician today?
Growing up Ive always knew this was the only thing i cud do. With Choir and Vocal Jazz in high school; my Singing started my persona. My rapping followed behind as it slowly progressed as would hang out with some friends of mine. I would like to say overall my hometown gave me and shaped me a different perspective on my own reality and how i see things in life based on the music I grew up around.
2. If you could single out one artist or band that has influenced you, who would that be and why?
Oooh. thats a tough one theres a lot of artists that influence me both living and/or dead. If i had to truly choose ONLY 1… id say B.O.B. He seems like a pretty chill dude and we kind of have the same type of mindset. To me what he represents spitting truth, being u, and changing the world. In the end of the day i keep this mindset daily which helps me “strive for excellence”
3. If you won the lottery tomorrow, what is the first thing you would buy?
I would buy the perfect house for my family. A nice mansion with 3-4 levels. Got to have a nice rec room for the family. A big pool in the back fenced in so My dogs can run freely. Get myself a professional Studio and green room in the basement not to mention a room for my wife so she can start her business. And a 6-12 car garage.
4. What is your advice to fellow underground musicians in regards to remaining discipline in your craft?
Stay focused. Keep Consistent. If u have a dream; no matter what it is never stop. Always strive for what u expect in life. Your vision is your supernatural gift that u can use it to create your reality. Make the right choices/investments to improve yourself or your career. In the end in the wise words of Notorious BIG, ” We cant change the world unless we change ourselves.”
5. Do you have any songwriting or recording tips you’d like to share?
I would say when it comes with songwriting do what feels write. Stay true to yourself but still be creative. theres no need to write about stuff you didn’t do or accomplished. people want to know/hear who you are; not about what u don’t have but say in a track to sound cool. Some people might not like what you write, but keep in mind in the end music is how you perceive it.
6. How does your family and close friends feel about your music career? Have they always been supportive or have there been issues in the past?
My family has always supported me. Since the age of 2 from me singing in the shower to now slowly transitioning my craft to a more professional setting i get nothing but love and support. With growing up, raising a family, work, and my music; most of my friends have mixed feelings. Some give me gratitude, some hate. A couple started falling into drugs and blame me for their failure cause my focus was more on my craft and my life rather then dealing with their drama and hanging with them. I don’t need that negative vibe around me. Positive vibes only.
7. If you could open up for one famous artist or band, who would that be and why?
If I could open up for one famous artist i would have to say B.O.B. Southmatic to me was amazing. The way he flows and his lyricism is crazy. I believe that my music intertwines or is comparable with his fanbase along with his music being in a way in between generations. He says what is on mind along with myself when it comes to songwriting.
8. If you could have a dinner with one musician who is no longer living, who would that be and why?
XXXTentacion, God bless his soul. id have a dinner with X to understand more of what went on in his mind. X to me had a lot of theories and facts that not a lot of people don’t like to OR don’t want to talk about. X just like Tupac kept it real. Just to be able to sit across from the dude as he expresses the depths of his conscious would not only be entertaining but would be very informative.
9. In your time with LiquidSound Records, what is the number one thing you have enjoyed the most? Also, what is your advice to those artists who would be interested in joining the roster in the future?
With the time I’ve been with LiquidSound Records the #1 thing I love the most is the support and constant communication. Being independent can be difficult especially if u have no true support. In the 10 years of doing music none of my friends I thought were there to support me and help me grow did not give the support and help I needed. With the help of LSR I’ve learned more of the business aspect of things when it comes to looking more professional along with a team that helps with distribution and media art. The opportunities that have been provided to me makes me more determined and motivated than I’ve ever been. Thank You LSR! To the artists of the future: take a risk, you only live once “Strive to be the best of you!”
10. In ten years, where do you see your music career?
In ten years, I see myself successful in all areas along with getting signed to a major record label. My clothing line StriveWear will be global. My music will be viral streaming on all platforms. I will be certified on Youtube, Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. I will have a successful shoe-line called StriveSteps. I will no longer have to worry about nothing cause I stuck to what I believed in and all my work and dedication finally paid off.