Exclusive interview with Ayo Jay
Singer/ Songwriter Ayoola Ogundeyi Jr., or ‘Ayo Jay’ as we all know him is an exceptionally talented and highly promising young singer and song writer. Born on 9 August 1989 in London, England, Ayo Jay was raised in Lagos, Nigeria.Although he discovered his singing and song writing abilities at a tender age, he ruled out a career as a musician as he felt his shy personality would be better suited elsewhere rather than being in the spotlight that comes with being a top artiste. More importantly, he did not think his parents, who placed a premium on higher education, would approve of a career in music.
Here is our Interview with the rising star:
Tell us a little about your background, where are you originally from?
I was born in London but I am originally from Lagos, Nigeria. Moved to New York for College when I was 17. Im the last kid from a family of four.
How long have you been singing?
I started taking music seriously two years ago but I have always been singing for years to my friends and family.
Who is your favorite artist of all time?
Usher definitely, I also listen to a lot of rap. I am a huge Eminem fan and of course Akon. Adam Levine also, he’s a great artist.
Who do you look up to as an artiste?
2Face, Wande Coal and Akon. 2Face because i admire his song writing ability and Akon i love his sound and for the fact that he is representing Africa all over the world. Wande Coal’s vocal ability is crazy, its unrivaled.
When will you be releasing your next album?
Hopefully next year, right now i am focused on putting singles and building the Ayo Jay brand.
Is this your 1st album, if not which other albums have you put out in the past?
Its going to be my first album, I only have a few singles and features out at the moment.
Do you have any upcoming events or concerts?
I just did a concert with P-Square in Chicago. The Nigerian Entertainment Awards in NY are this weekend i will be performing there and then after that I’m off to DC and Dallas to perform with Psquare again.
What else do you do apart from singing ?
Music is my life. Singing is what i do, its what i love to do and thats my focus right now.Do you have any encouraging words for up coming African artists?Be as original as possible; stay grounded never get carried away with success.
By Stream Africa
Africa Global News Publication
