Jay Swishes: The Brooklyn Native Shaping Music with Authenticity and Versatility

Jay Swishes is a name that resonates with authenticity, versatility, and a deep-rooted connection to his cultural background. Growing up in Brownsville, Brooklyn, Swishes has seen the harsh realities of life firsthand, and he channels these experiences into his music. His unique sound is a seamless blend of hip-hop, R&B, pop, and Caribbean influences, making him stand out in the crowded music industry. In a recent interview with BLEU, the Brooklyn native opened up about his journey, influences, inspirations, upcoming projects, and what drives his passion for music.

BLEU: Your musical journey began in a household filled with reggae and gospel music. How did your parents' musical backgrounds influence your unique blend of genres?

JAY: Just from listening to all those types of music like reggae and gospel and stuff like that, it unconsciously inspired me to create my own sound. When you listen to something over and over, especially when you get into music, you're bound to be influenced by what you hear. I get a lot of inspiration from my culture and my roots because my family is from the West Indies. It's a part of me, and it's going to be reflected in my music.

BLEU: Growing up in Brownsville, Brooklyn, how did the environment and your experiences shape your music and your approach to songwriting?

JAY: Brownsville is a very rough neighborhood. So, you know, we hear a lot of pain. I’m just narrating what I've been through and what I've seen. I'm not glorifying the negativity. I’m just telling you what it is. I talk about mental health issues, violence, you know, so you can understand what the environment does to a person. Some people don't have a voice; some people can tell their story or put words together on a beat for the world to hear, and I can do that. It’s not a selfish thing. I want to also speak for other people that can’t speak for themselves.

BLEU: I also read that basketball was a significant part of your youth. What lessons did you learn from the sport, and have you carried any into your music career?

JAY: Basketball is a sport that you can't take time off from. Basketball taught me dedication and laser focus. It also taught me that you need to surround yourself with the right people to succeed. It’s like crabs in a bucket, so you have to go above and beyond to be above those people. Teamwork makes the dream work; no man is an island. I apply those lessons to my music career by staying focused, consistent, and keeping the right people around me.

BLEU: You've mentioned the challenges of growing up in an area with constant violence and limited resources. How do you channel those experiences into your music, and what message do you hope to convey to listeners?

JAY: I’ll give you the relevant music of either experiences that I’ve been through or what the people that are around me have experienced. My message is not only in the music but also what I am doing, what people can see me doing. If there's another way, there's a way out; there’s a way not to get sucked into generational curses. It takes a lot of looking into who you are and honing into a craft, whatever that craft may be. I want people to see that I'm from the same place they are, and I'm making it by staying authentic.

BLEU: Your music seamlessly blends hip-hop, R&B, pop, trap, and Caribbean influences. How do you approach creating such a diverse sound, and what inspires you to keep experimenting with different genres?

JAY: I try not to overthink when creating music. You know, it has to come naturally. I produce my records in terms of structure and sound, even if I'm not making the beat myself. Right now, I feel like I've found my sound, and I've almost perfected it. You know what I’m saying? You'll see more of that in my upcoming projects.

BLEU: As a young artist navigating the music industry, what have been some of the largest challenges you've faced, and how have you overcome them?

JAY: One of the biggest challenges is navigating the politics of the industry. It's not just about music anymore; it's also about clout and social media presence. I'm more of a private person, so I've had to adjust to being more open and sharing more of my life with my fans. Another challenge is dealing with the pressures of life while trying to make it in the music industry. But having a good team around me keeps me grounded and focused.

BLEU: You've been described as having insane versatility and work ethic. Can you give us a glimpse into your creative process and how you maintain such high levels of productivity?

JAY: Most of my songs are recorded at home, where I can be alone and focus. I start by recording on my phone or laptop, and then I take it to the studio to record a high-quality version. I like to have a certain vibe in the studio—Hennessy, Taylor Port, good company. It's all about creating an environment where I can produce my best work.

BLEU: Looking ahead, what are your goals and aspirations for your music career, and what impact do you hope to make on the music industry?

JAY: I'm not about making microwave music. I want to create timeless music that people can listen to years from now, and it still resonates. My music is global, and I want to touch people all over the world, not just in the United States. I'm on that trajectory—tours overseas, touching different cultures. I want my music to be a universal language.

BLEU: What song have you written that you hold closest to your heart, and why?

JAY: The song "I Remember" is very close to my heart. It talks about my childhood, losing my mother at a young age, and other personal experiences. It's a record that gives listeners a glimpse into my personal life, and it's very emotional for me.

BLEU: Can you tease us about any upcoming projects?

JAY: I'm dropping an EP soon called Toxic Hero. The music is done, you know; we're just adding the final touches on it. I'm very excited about it because it's some of the best music I've made. Every record on that project can stand by itself. You’re gonna understand the direction that I’ll be going forward with.

Departing our interview with some words of wisdom for the reading audience, Jay advises, “Blank all the noise out, focus on what you want to do. What’s your passion; what’s your genius? Go forward and just be consistent,” Jay Swishes is a rising star with a unique sound and an authentic voice. His journey from the streets of Brownsville to the global stage is just beginning, and with his passion, dedication, and talent, he is poised to make a lasting impact on the music industry. Keep an eye out for his upcoming projects—Jay Swishes is an artist you don't want to miss.