Exclusive Interview: Pop Culturalist Chats with Jay-Way

Dutch hip-hop artist Jay-Way is quickly building a name for himself on the international stage. His 2016 single, “Happen Dappen,” surpassed over two million streams on Spotify and led to a record deal with IVAV.

This July, he continues to make his mark with his most personal EP to date, No, I’m Not Ok, which finds Jay-Way confronting his battle with anxiety and depression. Pop Culturalist caught up with Jay-Way to learn more about the release.

PC: How did you discover your passion for the arts?
Jay-Way: When it comes to music, I remember as a kid it was always so hard for me to sit still when there was music playing. I used to be so fascinated by the way people would translate their tracks to visuals. I was intrigued and felt welcomed into their world. It also developed my love for visuals. I always try to invite people to my fantasy world when I create music videos.

PC: Who or what has had the biggest influence on your career?
Jay-Way: See my number one biggest influence would be Michael Jackson. As a kid, I would watch his music videos religiously. He was super gifted and so entertaining. He gave me superhero vibes. I wanted to be just like him growing up. I have embarrassing stories about me trying to imitate him that I’ll keep to myself. It’s definitely Michael and Teen Gohan.

PC: Your 2016 single, “Happen Dappen” did incredibly well. Did that add any pressure for future releases?
Jay-Way: [laughs] The first song to hit two million-plus streams! No pressure, but I was really excited. I never felt the need to make another “Happen Dappen.” I’m never really fixated on the streams when I write, but it would be nice to have another big record.

PC: Tell us about your new EP, No, I’m Not Ok. What inspired the collection?
Jay-Way: I was dealing with anxiety and depression. Instead of keeping it to myself, I started writing about it for the first time. Normally, I’d write about how I’m killing rappers lyrically, but I’m exposing my diary to the world with this project.

Two artists that inspired the EP were Linkin Park and (the queen) Avril Lavigne for sure. I get Under My Skin vibes when I listen to my EP. That’s my favorite Avril album.

PC: If you had to pick one song off of No, I’m Not Ok that best encompasses who you are as an artist, what would it be and why?
Jay-Way: I think “Hometown Blues.” From the opening that highlights my vocals, followed by the amped-up hook. “Hometown Blues” feels like an anthem and allows me to outdo my rap peers. That track is definitely a great way to summarize me.

PC: As we look ahead to the rest of 2020, what does the year hold for you?
Jay-Way: It’s hard to imagine anything with all that’s going on, but thank God I still have a huge imagination. This year, I see myself doing a tour. A sold-out tour in Amsterdam is a must. Maybe this EP is part one and part two is right around the corner. Who knows? Stick around and find out on the next episode of…by the way, Dragon Ball Z the best anime show hands down. Ready to fight anyone who disagrees. [laughs]

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Jay-Way: Koji Kondo. He made the theme songs for The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. The best video game soundtrack ever.

PC: First album you bought?
Jay-Way: I think it was Corinne Bailey Rae’s first album.

PC: First concert you attended?
Jay-Way: Pete Philly in Amsterdam.

PC: An album that changed your life and why?
Jay-Way: Fly or Die by N.E.R.D. It gave me the courage to experiment beyond the boundaries of hip-hop. I’m forever indebted to Pharrell, Chad, and Shay Haley.

PC: A venue on your bucket list to perform at?
Jay-Way: Camp Flog Gnaw

PC: A must-have on the road?
Jay-Way: AirPods

To keep up with Jay-Way, follow him on Twitter, Instagram, and Spotify. Pick up or stream No, I’m Not Ok today.