Memphis Music Feature: Jay DaSkreet
It’s Memphis Music Month! Each Tuesday and Thursday in October, we will share a Q&A with a local artist—so you can discover new music and get to know the amazing people making that music.
I’ve partnered with my friends at Memphis Music Hub for this series, so the ‘MH’ you see below stands for Music Hub.
Check out the guide for 7 Ways To Celebrate Memphis Music Month.
Memphis Music Month Feature #2: Jay DaSkreet
Jay DaSkreet is a lyrical storyteller whose art is deeply rooted in poetry. Known for his unique delivery, exceptional wordplay and extraordinary live performance. Jay is Chicago born, Mississippi raised, but now calls Memphis home.
Catch Jay playing live in person at the Downtown Dinner + Music Series on Thursday, October 15th, 2020 from 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.
“To put it directly the term ‘Grit and Grind’ is completely accurate.” -Jay Da Skreet
Q&A With Jay DaSkreet:
MH: In one word or phrase, what about Memphis inspires you creatively?
Jay: Memphis is such a melting pot and mecca of talent that it literally oozes creativity. I myself am overly inspired by the mindsets of individuals in this area. To put it directly the term “Grit and Grind” is completely accurate. We are not hindered by our struggles but motivated and defined by them.
MH: Who in Memphis do you love to listen to?
Jay: I have love for countless current artists in Memphis so I would be all day answering this one. I will however give a huge shoutout to Chinese Connection Dub Embassy! Those are my bros and they make GREAT music.
They also have never shied from addressing social and political topics with their voice and platform so that’s huge for me as a fan. I also am very very interested in collaborating with Don Trip. I’m a big fan of his work and believe we could do something special together.
MH: Which place gives you that Memphis vibe?
Jay: Memphis has embraced me as an adopted son so I have several places that are home to me. From the legendary House of Mtenzi where I got sum of my first stage time to Brinson’s where every single piece of food on the menu is cooked with personal love.
There is also Mot & Ed’s on Madison which is where Soul Speak was held and is the open mic that introduced me to most of my early fanbase. Throw in Height Wings and The Blow Lounge and you got a pretty good picture of my hangouts.
MH: What advice would you give a young artist?
Jay: ALWAYS be prepared because opportunities are sporadic and random, at times. I would also say define what it is you would like to do and who you want to be as an artist and study your craft.
MH: What was a moment in time that moved the needle in your career?
Jay: Taking it upon myself to rent a venue and throw my own concert featuring me as the headliner. I was terrified it would fail but more people came out than I could possibly anticipate and they KNEW THE SONGS!! It was invigorating and validating all in one and it gave me the confidence to continue my path. To any artist reading this I say BELIEVE IN YOURSELF, even when you feel like no one else does.
MH: Where can we hear you?
Jay: I am currently working on two projects simultaneously. One is set to release as soon as October.
For now my latest release is entitled “I’m Onnnit” and it is garnering me lots of attention both in the states and abroad. They are particularly fond of it in Russia. I also am partnering with the Tennessee Songwriter’s Competition to do a concert in Nashville at the top of the year (social distancing applied of course) there will be revisiting my song “Regaining My Weight” which won the preliminary and second round of this year’s competition. I will be filmed an entire unplugged concert in September to be released at a later date powered by The Infamous DJ Flame.
Catch Jay playing live in person at the Downtown Dinner + Music Series on Thursday, October 15th, 2020 from 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.
He is such a good artist. + I loved this interview keep them coming. We need more JayDaSkreet
Thank you!! There is more Jay DaSkreet coming…
Hands down 1 of the greatest and the world will soon know this!
We gone put it in they FACE!!
Nice piece. My guy definitely deserves this
I appreciate that fam! Stay tuned
Jay DaSkreet is a once in a lifetime talent. Watching his grind has been a pleasure. Every song is a level up, every tape. Success is waiting for him and I can’t wait to see him get the accolades he deserves.
Thank you brother! We motivate each other so I plan on continuing to push!
Jay surprisingly didn’t mention his extraordinary skills in ice skating and ice sculpturing. He learned both in the summertime in Mississippi.
I had to leave SOME of the talents off so it wouldn’t sound like im bragging…
I’ve been Walking the Line with Jay DaSkreet since Walk the Line II and his music gets better every release. One of the most consistent and lyrical artist I’ve run across in Memphis. Can’t wait for the new music to drop!
Jay DaSkreet is one of Memphis dopest MCs. He has a very solid catalogue. One of my favorites. Anyone reading should definitely check him out.
Much respect!! I plan to extend that catalogue very shortly…
From the first time I met Jay i have learned alot from him he is truly an inspirational person and an amazing artist. I have never met someone that grinds so hard cooking up his lyrics. His music is not only some of the best inhave heard but also very dynamic, stimulating of the mind and expressive. I hope that other artist may be able to learn from him in the future.
This one touched my heart. Thank you bro!! You been real with me and a fan from the start. I love you
I really really appreciate all the love y’all giving!!
Skreet is one of my favorite artists in Memphis. His wordplay is unmatched and he has a natural ability to kill any track he hears. He definitely is one to watch out for!
Thank you so much ma! My sole purpose is to make sure I keep making dope stuff for yall I swear!!
The way Skreet moved is only a matter of time before he’s recognized as one of the greats not only in Memphis but period.
That’s definitely the goal!! We want the world and I think they need to hear me one good time.
Keep it up bro!!! I have NEVER heard a song from you that was under a 10!!! You have a sound everybody can relate to and that’s major!!!!
1000 Bro! I really appreciate that and I think you are grooming one of the next BIG talents yourself!
He’s, easily, one the best artist I’ve ever heard from the Mid-South region. His best selection and penmanship are unmatched. The way he is able to adjust to any mood is phenomenal.
From the projects to the pyramids is the goal… I love you cuz. #KnowGood
Dope write up family! Keep striving and making dope art. One of the reasons I fuck with you is because you are yourself and you do you. Mad respect fam. Keep moving!
Much respect homie. I don’t take this lightly either cause I know you dont say what you don’t mean.
I love me some Jay DaSkreet! He brings creativity, craftsmanship, and integrity to the game, all with an incredible work ethic. Salute to one of the most inspiring artists out!
This means alot! Thank you for taking time to check me out!
Great article! Jay DaSkreet is an amazing artist!!
Thank you Cat!! You introduced me to this platform a few years ago now you are here showing love on my write up!!!
I love this article not because this is my son (smile) but because he is so motivated and he is my child when I said sit down and be still he said in one minute momma (well he hasn’t sat down yet). I am proud of the man he has become and of all of his accomplishments. Keep grinding son. I love you and I am very proud of you.
I love you Mama! More than anything one of my greatest achievements is being able to say I have made you proud. Im myself am proud of being honest enough with myself and my fans that I have never had to be ashamed of sharing my music with you… Thank you for supporting me.
Man Jay Daskreet’! Is and outstanding artist! Lyrically he’s a beast with great production. I also love the drive that he has!! And how his creative juices are always flowing!! Continue to be awesome i’ll forever be a fan✊
Thank you Queen! Just know that im forever a fan of yours as well…
Jay hasn’t left my recently played on Spotify in what seems to be ages now. . Dope interview
Thank you Cuz! You Know Good and well it’s Know Good!!
Skreet is #aye1 as they come in this industry. Keep grinding fam!
Likewise homie!! Im still honored to be a recipient of The Sawse!!
Rumble young man rumble
Floating like an oldschool…
Sitting on them D’s
If you’re on the fence, definitely come out and vibe with Jay DaSkreet. He’s a versatile lyricist and performer that connects well with audiences and delivers soulful rap compilations. If he’s backed by Chinese Connection Dub Embassy, then you’re in for a treat. This is one of the few guys that I’ve worked with on multiple albums and the results are always spectacular.
Im honored to have been apart of your projects fam! You are definitely top tier and it’s a pleasure
That mane a cold freestyler and a cold artist! Keep winning my guy! Salute
Jay DaSkreet is mad talented! Been dope with the bars and get unmatched love from his fan base. Very proud of his accomplishments and can’t wait to see what else in store for his artist career! Keep up the great work!
Thank you!! I really appreciate you stopping by MuddSister!!
Yooo! This was an awesome read! As long as I been listening to Jay’s music, I’ve either been left in awe or inspired, honestly it’s usually both. He’s a true talent and has real depth to his artistry. I guarantee you’ll love it, if you listen.
Hell Yea!! Let’s go homie!!!
This interview was entertaining and interesting. I knew a lot of this about Jay DaSkreet as I am one of his biggest fans and supporters. Skreet is a lyrical phenomenon and will soon be a household name globally. #WaitFotIt!
Nice piece mane! I know I don’t typically say much, but it’s been a honor to watch your growth, drive, and ambition. No matter what happens, I’m proud to have watched your journey. Proud of you mane!
Much respect homie. I don’t take this lightly either cause I know you dont say what you don’t mean.
The best freestyler I’ve met in a long time. Keep winning my G
Dope.
Gifted.
Humble.
Authentic.
Skreet.
Mane Jay DaSkreet….this was a really great read! Shout out to how you hold the city down. Your performances are unforgettable and you always seem to take your music to the next level. You are greatness!
His love for his craft oozes through every utterance! Mississippi Brilliance.
Jay DaSkreet is literally one of my favorite artists and performers! Stay true to your artistry! It’s going to take you further than you can imagine!
I really really appreciate ALL of yall showing love! It’s giving me hard time with my direct replies but I am reading them all and will try again later
Great write up! This is definitely authenticity at its finest, and I’m excited to see where it takes you. I’m so proud of you, Jay. Keep grinding, mane!
The flow of this article was nice., I could hear the artist words as if he were sitting in my presence. The vision is clear and the advice he gives to other artist is on point, “stay prepared”!! Great article , love and respect
I really enjoyed reading this and I have been a fan of yours for years now. Just want to say keep up the great work and I stand on that some day you’ll be selling out arenas!!❤❤❤