All Access Exclusive Interview with Will Jay
All Access exclusive interview with artist Will Jay
Burgeoning artist Will Jay is making his own path through heart-felt songwriting and a unique point of view.
All Access Music: “Describe your sound to new listeners.”
Will Jay: “My sound is pop with jazz influences. In regards to current artists, I’m trying to be a blend of Meghan Trainor and Sam Smith: Meghan for her throwback vibe whereas Sam for his authenticity and sultriness.”
AAM: “What one song represents your sound? Why?”
WJ: “I have a song that I’ve been playing live called ‘Vampire.’ I think that song best represents the sound I’m going for; it’s jazzy & moody with heartfelt lyrics that everyone can relate to.”
AAM “Who or what influences your songwriting?”
WJ: “Various mediums influence my songwriting. Lately, I’ve been very inspired by poetry; I’m definitely a lyric-driven writer, so the words of poetry really speak to me. In regards to people, I definitely look to the greats like The Beatles, Elton John, Bruce Springsteen; I strive to create songs with universal ideas yet still come off personal to me.”
AAM: “Describe the song writing process for you–take specific time, write while tour, write when inspired, etc.”
WJ: “I’m definitely an inspiration-driven songwriter; in a weird way I wish I had a specific time that I would write on a daily basis. However, those creative spurts are when I feel most alive and most happy with myself, so I don’t mind.”
AAM: “How do you leave your mark with new fans?”
WJ: “With new fans, I try to be as genuine as possible, in my music as well as in my personality. I try to write real, authentic lyrics that people can relate to as well as show that I’m a real person as well.”
ITKOC: “How does your style add to your overall image?”
WJ: “With my style, I just try to be authentic and genuine, like my songs. Plus, I’m pretty cheap when it comes to clothes, so that helps.”
AAM: “How do you utilize social media to help your career?”
WJ: “Social media is really important to me. I use social media to create genuine relationships with the people that support me, whether it’s a simple tweet to cheer them up or a direct message. It’s also great because I don’t want to have this aura of untouchability; I really want people to see who I am & what my life is like, and I think social media helps with that tremendously.”
AAM: “Which is more important- YouTube or radio and why?”
WJ: “I think both serve different goals one might have. Both help artists reach a widespread audience that they wouldn’t normally have access to. Having the radio is what turns a song into a hit and can take an artist to the next level. However, Youtube is great, too.”
AAM: “Describe the very first show you ever played. (Where was it and how did it go?)”
WJ: “My very first show I was eleven and I sang Aretha Franklin covers. At the time, I think it went great; looking back, I just came off very loud.”
AAM: “Where do you see yourself in five years?”
WJ: “Obviously I have goals, but if I get to make and play music for a living, I’ll be happy. My dream venue to play is The Greek Theatre in Los Angeles.”
AAM: “Where can fans see you live soon?”
WJ: “May 3 I’m opening up for Jesse McCartney at The Avalon in Hollywood.”
For more information, go to Will Jay’s website.