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.

You can find Jay Daskreet’s music on Spotify and Bandcamp.