Jay1 is a well-known figure in the UK music scene, entering in the late 2010’s and amassing a notoriety with his lyrics, flow and sound, as well as numerous hits. Get familiar with this VIPER Presents interview…

What five words define your sound?

Simple, Unique, Exciting, Touching and Calm.

Tell me something unique about your creative process 

I write music based on how I feel. So if I’m in a good mood I’ll write something jumpy. If I’m pissed off I’ll want to vent and let things off my chest. If I’m sad, I’ll need the production slowed down and I’ll be able to speak my mind. The lyrics normally just flow when I’m in my zone.

Which song of yours would you like people to hear first?

‘Loose’. 

What inspired you to make that song?

I made ‘Sunday Service’ when I was in a low place. I remember being in the studio and telling everyone to leave the room whilst writing it. 

What’s the best experience you’ve had on stage? 

The best experience I’ve had on stage is getting everyone to sing my song acapella. The energy goes off when that happens, it hits different. 

What is your favourite song to perform?

My favourite song to perform is ‘Your Mrs’, the supporters still enjoy it when I perform they know it word for word.

What’s the meaning behind your name?

Jay is short for Jason and I’ve always seen myself as number 1 so I added the 1. 

If you weren’t making music, what would you be doing instead?

I’d probably be a sports teacher or a football coach if I wasn’t making music.

What’s success to you?

Success to me is being happy physically, mentally, spiritually and learning about what Jesus done for this world!

What moment in your life/career forced you to change direction? 

When things got personal in my life. (2023) 

Where can people keep in touch with you? 

Instagram – @jay1 | TikTok – @jay1official | twitter – @jay1official_